Colophon (book) - Definition and Overview

In publishing, a colophon describes details of the production of a book. This information generally includes the typefaces used, and often the names of their designers; the paper, ink and details of the binding materials and methods may also receive mention. In the case of technical books, a colophon may specify the software used to prepare the text and diagrams for publication.

If a book has a colophon, it may appear either on the same page as the copyright information, or at the back of the volume.

The term ‘colophon’ derives from the Late Latin colophon, from the Greek κολοφων, ‘a summit’, ‘top’, ‘finishing’. It should not be confused with Colophon, an ancient city in Asia Minor, the name of which derives from the Latin colophonium, meaning ‘Colophony’.