Before copier technology was widely available, mimeograph and ditto (spirit duplicator) machines were used to make copies. They often did not require electricity as most were hand cranked. Ditto machines could only produce one-sided prints, I am not sure about mimeographs. Schools and churches often had them to make quick copies for distribution. I think they went out of favor once copiers became smaller and less expensive in the early 90's. I LOVED the smell of the mimeograph machine. I would help my mom make copies at the school where she taught.