Further Innovations
In the late 18th and throughout the 19th century, significant advances in printing technology transformed the printing landscape. These innovations included the development of metal presses and cylindrical printing machines. Richard M. Hoe's invention of the power-driven cylindrical press around the mid-19th century could print up to 8,000 sheets per hour, revolutionizing newspaper production.
Later, the offset press introduced in the late 19th century facilitated full-color printing, which dramatically changed the aesthetic of printed materials. By the early 20th century, electric-operated presses further optimized production processes, ensuring higher quality and efficiency.
As a result of these advancements, the publishing industry saw a sharp increase in literacy rates as primary education became compulsory. Printing became more accessible, enabling even the less privileged sections of society, including children and women, to read. New forms of literature emerged—such as penny magazines, novels, and periodicals—which catered to varied audiences. Public libraries began to proliferate, allowing broader societal access to literature and ideas, thus enhancing education and awareness among the people.