Serif Normal Ibmib 3 is a bold, normal width, medium contrast, upright, normal x-height font.
Keywords: book text, editorial, headlines, branding, packaging, traditional, authoritative, literary, formal, readability, tradition, authority, durability, versatility, bracketed serifs, ball terminals, sturdy, ink-trap feel, high legibility.
This is a sturdy text serif with bracketed, slightly flared serifs and a relatively large footprint in the black areas, giving it a strong page color. Strokes show moderate contrast with rounded transitions and softened joins, and several characters exhibit ball terminals and teardrop-like endings (notably in forms such as g, a, and some numerals). Counters are generous and mostly round, while the overall drawing favors compact, confident shapes with a steady rhythm in running text. The numerals are weighty and classic in proportion, with clear, old-style-inspired curves and prominent bowls.
It suits book and long-form editorial typography where a strong, readable serif is desired, and it also performs well in headlines and subheads that need traditional gravitas. The sturdy shapes and classic numerals make it a good fit for identity work with a heritage tone, as well as packaging or signage that benefits from a confident, familiar serif presence.
The overall tone is traditional and authoritative, with a bookish, editorial personality. Its robust weight and rounded detailing convey warmth and reliability rather than sharp elegance, making it feel familiar and institutionally grounded.
The design appears intended as a conventional, highly readable serif with a strong presence and softened detailing, balancing classic proportions with robust weight for dependable performance in both text and display settings.
The font maintains a consistent, slightly softened serif treatment across caps and lowercase, which helps large sizes feel solid and smaller sizes remain readable. Capitals are stately and wide enough for headings, while the lowercase keeps clear differentiation between similar shapes, supporting comfortable continuous reading.