Studio Tours
Peek behind the scenes at Open Book & MCBA—history, art, and a little printing magic!
Explore two floors of active book arts studios, a type library featuring wood and metal type in multiple languages, and a printing press from the 1800s.
Join us for a free tour on the first Saturday of each month, book a private tour at a time that works for you, or take a tour that includes a hands-on printing activity.
Can’t make it in person or want to preview our space before visiting? Take a virtual tour.
Are you an artist interested in using the studio space? Learn more about our space and equipment on our Studios and Equipment page.
Free First Saturday Tours
The first Saturday of most months, MCBA offers free tours to the public!
Tours run from 1–1:30pm CT. Look for the sign—and friendly MCBA staff member—in front of MCBA’s gallery in the Open Book lobby.
Tours are free! Register by choosing a date below. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Suggested ages: 7 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Accessibility
Our studios are on the main floor and in the basement of the Open Book building. The basement is accessed by a short flight of wooden stairs or by the building’s freight elevator. For accessibility requests, please email Laura Brown at lbrown@mnbookarts.org 2-3 weeks before your tour.
Private Studio Tours
Private studio tours are great for college and university classes, homeschool groups, book clubs, and artist collectives. Just like our First Free Saturday tours, but at a time that accommodates your schedule.
30 minutes, free
25 participants, maximum. To book a larger group, contact Laura Brown at lbrown@mnbookarts.org.
Tours are typically scheduled Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 10am–4pm.
Studio Tour & Printing Activty
Looking for some hands-on experience to go with your guided tour? Watch a printer set up a Pilot platen press and then print your own bookmark (or two!) to take home with you.
75 minutes, $225/group
25 participants, maximum. To book a larger group, contact Laura Brown at lbrown@mnbookarts.org.
Tour & Printing Activities are typically scheduled Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 10am–4pm.
