The Graphic Design Book: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Open textbook covering design history, process, elements, colour management, and print production. Published by BCcampus under CC BY 4.0.

Wayne Collins, Alex Hass, Ken Jeffery, Alan Martin, Roberto Medeiros, and Steve Tomljanovic

Comprehensive academic text on typography, layout, and information design. Part of the IIID Public Library series on information design.

Rune Pettersson

Beginner-friendly guide covering design fundamentals, principles, typography basics, color theory, and both print and digital design.

Jersey Davis

Practical design tips for non-designers, presented in an engaging slide format. Covers layout, typography, color, and visual hierarchy with real-world examples. CC licensed.

Bianca Woods

Critical essays examining the role and limitations of design in contemporary society. Praised by leading design thinkers. Published under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.

Silvio Lorusso