Face time: Booking it

There were no iPads or Kindles at the 25th-anniversary party for the Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) last month.

For a quarter-century, the internationally recognized center has celebrated old technology, including papermaking, letterpress printing and bookbinding.

But that doesn't mean it's out of touch with the times. In fact, said Jeff Rathermel, artistic director and interim executive director, you'll find the "traditional craft with contemporary content," such as collegiate fellow Julie Sirek's current project about the menstrual cycle.

To mark its 25th anniversary, the organization opened up its little black book to create a commemorative print portfolio featuring the work of 25 artists; it was on display for the party.

Also for the occasion, Claire Van Vliet of the influential Janus Press came from Vermont. With some of her books in the exhibit, she couldn't pick a favorite. "The one I'm most interested in is the one I'm working on now," she said.

With so many artistic offerings, you might actually be able to judge these books by their covers.

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177