A galley is a proof of a text, usually the first version from which the printer will work. It is the basis on which the compositor will set the type and from which pages will be proofed before being printed.
The purpose of a galley is to allow the author, editor, and proofreader to see the text as it will appear in print, and to make any necessary corrections. Galleys are also used to estimate the page count of a book and to calculate the cost of printing.
Galley proofs are usually printed on both sides of a sheet of paper, and the pages are not numbered. The text is usually set in a small typeface, such as 8- or 10-point, to save space and paper.
Galley proofs are often sent to reviewers, booksellers, and others interested in the book prior to publication. They are also used to generate advance interest in a book, and as a result, galleys are sometimes made available to the general public prior to publication.
The invention of the printing press in the fifteenth century was a game changer for the dissemination of information. One of the key components of the press was the use of movable type, which was set in a frame called a Galley. The Galley allowed for the quick and efficient setting of type, which was essential for the mass production of printed materials.
Galley technology continued to evolve over the centuries, and it remains an important part of the printing process today. The use of Galleys allows for the rapid and accurate setting of type, which is essential for high-quality printing. Additionally, Galleys can be used to create customized printing plates, which further enhances the flexibility and quality of the printing process.
Overall, the Galley is a vital component of the printing process, and its importance cannot be overstated. without the use of Galleys, the mass production of printed materials would not be possible.