A region steeped in literary and printing traditions, the Pacific Northwest became home to the tenth Chapter of the Guild of Book Workers in 2003.

As with our parent organization, it is the mission of the Northwest Chapter to "establish and maintain a feeling of kinship and mutual interest among workers in the several hand book crafts." Prior to the formation of the NW GBW, the Guild was not clearly established in the Northwest. The nearest Guild representation was the Rocky Mountain Chapter, yet much of our membership can scarcely imagine life east of the Cascades, let alone in the foothills of the Rockies!

In keeping with our mission, it is our hope that the NW GBW will provide an intersection between the existing book arts groups within Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, fostering a flow of energy between our various communities as well as tapping into the wealth of resources, educational opportunities, and the level of critical feedback provided by a national forum.

Not that we like to brag, but we live in a region rich in book arts resources. Our links page connects you to some of the Northwest's many and varied book arts suppliers, educational facilities, and organizations.

By joining the NW GBW, your mailbox will enjoy the hard copy version of our newsletter, instead of just its usual assortment of bills and circulars.

Membership also entitles you to discounts on Guild-sponsored activities, as well as inclusion in member exhibitions, such as our online gallery.

Membership application and instructions for joining the NW GBW are available through the national Guild of Book Workers. Chapter membership is just $10 in addition to your national Guild dues.

Our home in the Pacific Northwest is a part of the country where distances are, perhaps, better measured in mountain ranges and forests rather than in miles. We hope you will come to think of our website as a way of connecting across those distances, maintaining kinship, fostering energy for the art of the book, and encouraging our mutual interests.