Since the dawn of the Internet, designers have gained unparalleled access to a wealth of information. Despite this, nothing can compare to the feel of crisp edges of paper gliding against one’s thumb as the pages are turned and the wonderful aroma that is exhumed by the air rushing out as the pages come together. No, nothing can compare, especially when it comes to design books.

It’s hard to perceive why designers should care to build their libraries. The costs can be high and instant gratification is done away with. The Internet’s limitless pool is filled with quality information and can always be consulted, almost always yielding answers. Nevertheless, no mater what one’s stance is on books, there are a select few books every designer should have in their collection.

What differentiates these books from others is their quality. Imagine taking all the correct and accurate information on the Internet and putting it all in one place, saving hours worth of research. Imagine if this same source provides all the information that you might need on specific topic and more, in a concise manner. Imagine further, if this exact same source provides examples for inspiration, not just on a few pages, but on every page. That is book worth keeping.

Here are three books that do just that:

Thinking With Type

By Ellen Lupton

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This book is beautiful. It gives a lot of information about typography. It covers everything from history, to letters and all the way to type on the web. The covers have a list of some of the best typefaces out there. It makes it really easy to decide on which typeface to use on a given project. Amazon

Graphic Design The New Basics

By Ellen Lupton & Jennifer Cole Phillips

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Sometimes we forget the basics. This book will definitely fix that. The book is broken down really nicely. It starts with the basic elements of design and moves along to more complex elements. Every page has stunning examples partnered with a brief about each example. Amazon

Making And Breaking The Grid

By Timothy Samara

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This is one of those books you can keep looking at over and over again. Every page has examples that will make your jaw drop. Along with every example is a brief explanation of the design showcased. The book is broken down into 2 parts: making the grid and breaking it. At the start of each section, it provides an explanation of the thought process that goes along with making a grid or breaking it. Amazon

Wrap Up

There are lots of books out there. Some are good, some are bad and some are truly amazing. The books previously mentioned are in the last group; they are extraordinary. Together they help build a strong foundation for designers on every level. They work together in synergy to help propel the reader beyond their starting point. They are both informative and beautiful. These three books belong on every designers desk.