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The National Amateur Press Association is the oldest Amateur Press group in the world. From the first convention in 1876 (Philadelphia) to 2006 (New Orleans), this organization has been dedicated to the furtherance of Amateur Journalism as a hobby. Although deeply rooted in the "Black Art" of letterpress printing, all of the associated arts of writing, editing, publishing, and illustration are equally important to NAPA members. Each month's bundle of papers, mailed to all members, will contain the work of printers, some who do not write, and writers and poets, some who also print. Some edit and publish the work of others, leaving the craft of printing to yet others. The best work of each year is awarded a laureate award to recognize the members' achievements. Laureates, and honorable mentions, are awarded in these categories: Poetry, Fiction, History of Amateur Journalism, Editorial Comment, Miscellaneous Prose, Art, Editing, and Printing. Printing was historically done letterpress, but offset, photocopy, mimeograph, and spirit duplicator have all been used. Today's bundles often contain journals produced by computer and laser printer. In each case the words and their presentation are the focus, not the technology. A free three month Trial Membership is available for those who want to explore the hobby of Amateur Journalism!
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