At the University Press of Kansas, you’re allowed to judge a book by its cover.

The organization, located at 2502 Westbrooke Circle, is hosting an exhibit of some of the top book jacket and layout designs of 2012. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through April 11, visitors can learn more about the intricate process behind a book’s jacket, interior type and page layout at the Association of American University Presses Book, Jacket and Journal Show.

University Press of Kansas art director and advertising manager Karl Janssen, who is in charge of the group’s graphic designs, said the exhibit highlights the amount of work that goes into the look of a book.

“There’s a high level of craftsmanship that goes into what we do,” Janssen said. “The book jacket should be creative enough to have a unique look but not hinder the legibility.”

Janssen said the traveling exhibit, which features 94 books and jackets published by American University Presses recognized for excellence in design and manufacture, inspires designers to better their work.

“To see what my colleagues are creating pushes us to elevate of craft a little higher,” Janssen said. “It shows we have to think outside the envelope.”

The recognized books were chosen from among 273 books, 331 jackets and four journals published in 2012. The books were judged on superior layout of typography or illustration, while the jackets and journals were judged on outstanding overall design.

Exhibit admirers are encouraged to pick up and examine the books’ interior design details. Visitors can also take home complimentary copies of the show catalog, which contains the design specification and judging comments.

For more information about the University Press of Kansas, visit: http://www.facebook.com/kansaspress or http://www.kansaspress.ku.edu.