- A colophon describes a book's production details.
- It commonly names the typeface(s) used.
- It usually appears at the back of the book.
- It can also credit the designer, printer, and paper.
- It is optional and most common in finely made books.
A colophon is a short note, typically on the last page of a book, that records production details — most often the name and history of the typeface, along with the designer, printer, paper, and binding. Historically it identified who printed a book and when. Today it is an optional flourish, common in literary and fine-press editions, that celebrates the craft of bookmaking and gives bibliophiles a record of how the book was produced.
Chapter i·Why it matters
Knowing what a colophon is helps authors and self-publishers understand a small but meaningful part of book craft and decide whether to include one. A colophon signals attention to production quality and gives readers and collectors a record of the typeface and makers — a touch valued in literary fiction, poetry, and fine editions. Understanding the term also helps authors read the back matter of professionally produced books and appreciate the typographic choices behind them.
Chapter ii·What to include
- A note on the typeface used.
- A back-of-book placement.
- Optional credits: designer, printer, paper.
- A concise, understated tone.
- A nod to the book's production craft.
- Recognition that it is optional.
Chapter iii·Example
At the back of a literary novel, a short colophon reads: "This book was set in Adobe Garamond, a typeface based on the work of Claude Garamond. Designed by [name]; printed on acid-free paper." It records the production craft and gives collectors a small, elegant note on how the book was made.
Chapter iv·Related questions
WriteLoom keeps your front and back matter organized, so finishing touches like a colophon are easy to place.
See WriteLoom