I have a hardcover book whose binding is falling apart. The book is otherwise in good condition, but the block of pages is detaching from the front cover. Can anybody suggest how I can repair my book?
Thanks!
Well where are you located? I’d call around to different small book stores and ask about book binding restoration. Is the book something special, preventing you from going out and buying another?
Book Binding is an art form…not the easiest task in the world…
If you simply need the book to stay in one piece, any decent copy shop or college library should be able to put on a basic binding - effectively they would slice out the pages, and glue them onto a new spine. If it’s a special or valuable book, search out a specialist bookbinder.
If I understand the injury, using a piece of clear packaging tape inside the cover, across the torn seam should hold it back together in a reasonable way. However, if the book is worth something, or you want a more professional solution, asking at a book store will be a good idea.
I’ve bound my own books for fun, and it’s actually pretty cool, if you’re into that sort of thing. The professional solution likely involves doing the physical re-attachement inside the spine, either sewing it or using an adhesive, then putting a new inside sheet of paper over the torn current one. (possibly removing the torn one first if that’s possible). I’m hardly a pro though; that’s just my guess.
I’ve got a book deep in the bowels of my garage somewhere on bookbinding that’s relatively complete and has lots of pictures. I don’t recall that it talked much about repairs; it was all about binding a new book. I can dig up the name if you’re interested.
Phlosphr, Thanks so much. The book is a really good textbook that I want to hold on to, and if I can have it repaired for less than $76.00 (The list price of the book in new condition), I’m saving myself money.
I’m located outside Philadelphia in Villanova, PA.
Thanks again!