Linotype is one of the oldest and most respected type firms around, drawing on a history of more than 120 years to now offer over 9,000 original typefaces. More than 7,000 of these are available in OpenType format, with the three Essentials collections providing a way to quickly build an OpenType library of workhorse faces. Each includes a broad spectrum of styles, from classics to modern bestsellers, suitable for a wide range of design applications.

Including serif and sans serif typefaces, display faces, script and historical, as well as symbol typefaces from Linotype, Monotype and ITC, the three volumes are designed to work well together to provide a flexible library, as well as standing alone. It should be noted that complete font families are not provided: instead, all the basic weights (hence, Essentials) are included.

Each set is provided with a booklet and a mini-catalog displaying all weights and features. This is especially handy for OpenType fonts, since many have such advanced features as ligatures, titling and swash characters, old style figures, small caps, fractions and historical characters. Each set includes a license for up to five computers, making this a fit for small design firms and office workgroups.

More information is available on the Linotype site.