About Us
The Paper Print & Book Museum (PPB) stands as a testament to the enduring power of the written word. Founded in 2025, our institution houses the most comprehensive collections of paper-making, letterpress printing, and book-binder equipment and related materials in the southeastern Ohio region, from ancient manuscripts to modern first editions. It brings together 26 years of experience from the Paper Circle, a paper-making nonprofit organization, with the 30 years of operation associated with the Don E. Adleta TypeShop and Bindery, a named space at Ohio University. Our mission is to preserve, study, and share the rich history of paper-making, bookmaking, and letterpress printing. Through our exhibitions and educational programs, we invite visitors to explore the artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation that have shaped how we record and share human knowledge. PPB will display the work of designers, artists, typographers, printers, bookbinders, and other professionals responsible for the aesthetics of paper-making, books, magazines, and ephemera during a period full of artistic trends and social movements.
FOUNDERS: Don Adleta, Darren Baker, Susan Gilfert, and Robin Smith.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Don Adleta, President
Darren Baker, Vice President
Amber VanDyke, Treasurer
Susan Gilfert, Treasurer
Tom Balbo
John Goodin
Nicole Malcolm
Matthew Presutti
Robin Smith
MAJOR CONTRIBUTORS: Sara Gilfert, Karen Nulf, Anita Marks, Sunbury Press, Middleport Quality Print, Chaddock+Marrow College of Fine Arts, Fred Toner, Don Adleta, Susan Gilfert, Robin Smith, Mary Ann Amyx, Sheppard Black, Lawhead Press, McBee Systems, Athens Messenger, and OU Library.
ADVISORS: David Reiser, Richard Woollacott, Jeff Chaddock
COLLABORATING AND SUPPORTING COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Athens Sunrise Rotary Club, the Rotary Club of Athens, SouthEast Ohio History Center, The Dairy Barn Cultural Center, Passion Works, Athens Photo Project, Athens County Foundation, Sugar Bush Foundation.
EIN: 39-2384916
