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Since the Renaissance, the physical production of a book has demanded a signficant outlay of capital. A book becomes inexpensive only when large numbers can be sold, diminishing the cost per unit, yet production in significant quantities requires even more capital. New technologies are generating new economies of scale. Such processes as the Xerox Docutech system can print an entire book directly from an electronic file, eliminating the costly manufacture of printing plates and operation of mechanical presses.
Docutech, which can be financially viable for editions ranging from one to one thousand, reflects the book's transformation from a closed, monumental tome to an object that can be customized for specific audiences. Publishing on demand may soon replace publishing on speculation, transforming the reader from a consumer of finished goods into a producer whose needs and desires trigger manufacture.
© Copyright 1996 Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum