THE MACHINE THAT MADE US: GUTENBERG'S BRILLIANT INVENTION
Tuesday 6 May 18.30 - 20.00
Conference Centre
The British Library
96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB

Johann Gutenberg's printing press, which brought about the dawn of mass communication is of barely equalled significance in the development of human culture. His achievement reached its pinnacle with the printing of the Gutenberg Bible in 1455. A new documentary 'The Machine That Made Us', presented by Stephen Fry, was screened on BBC4 on 14 April 2008, 9 pm, and excerpts will feature in the event at the BL. For the programme, and in order to unravel mysteries of Gutenberg's technique, a team of experts built a unique copy of his press: watch it action at the event, alongside discussion of the remarkable story behind its invention. Speakers include Alan May (printing expert and press builder), Martin Andrews (University of Reading) and Patrick McGrady (Wavelength Films) Price £ 6 (concessions £ 4), bookable at http://boxoffice.bl.uk by phone on 01937 546546 or in person at the British Library Information Desk.