Mending and Repair of Books

A concise, hands‑on manual for librarians who must keep their collections sturdy and readable, this guide tackles the everyday challenge of caring for worn books. It assumes no prior experience in binding, offering clear explanations of basic construction so staff can make informed choices about repair versus rebinding. By emphasizing the economic and service‑related stakes of a well‑maintained shelf, it encourages a proactive approach to preservation.

The text walks readers through practical questions such as when a cracked spine warrants a full rebinding and when a simple mend will suffice. It presents a range of techniques suitable for different levels of damage, from loose joints to missing pages, and advises on how to coordinate with professional binders when urgent work is needed. With straightforward advice and real‑world examples, the handbook equips library workers to extend the life of their books while maintaining the quality patrons expect.