Blank pages or blank leaves refer to intentionally created blank pages left within books for editorial use, often at the start, end, or both of a marked division or towards its conclusion; also called printer’s blanks or printer’s leaves.
Blank leaves, or pages, are pages within books or publications that serve as space for notes, illustrations, or any additional additions that require space – for instance, at the start or end or between text sections. Blank pages provide space to do just this!
Blank leaves have long been employed throughout history for various purposes. Medieval manuscripts used blank leaves as space for annotations such as rubrics or marginalia; early printed books utilized blank leaves if their text ran short; they could even add extra pages if an author died before their book could be completed!
Today, blank leaves remain popularly used. Sometimes, they’re left intentionally blank to allow readers to write notes or add illustrations; other times, it could be due to printing issues. In either instance, blank leaves can still be found in physically printed and digital books.
Blank leaves play an indispensable role in books and publishing; their essential function is creating printed materials, from creation and distribution through printing and binding processes, and aesthetic purposes like adding dimension and beauty. Therefore, blank leaves should always be considered necessary in this industry.