The Library Binding

Collectors and purists may cringe at this notion, but I really like hardbound paperbacks found in libraries. The paperback cover is removed and the interiors are placed between hardcover boards and rebound. I have a cool little copy of Catcher in the Rye that I picked up at a library sale some years ago. I cherish this book, though it has no real value other than sentimental (and the story it contains, of course). Sometimes I take it off the shelf just to hold it. There’s just something really cool about small hardcovers.

I am currently working on a system to quickly bind hardcovers in this fashion, though my technique will not involve tearing apart existing books. I intend to use the Atomic Binding Machine to assemble the interiors and insert these into a hardcover shell. I have hit several sticking points with this method, but I will figure it out. Eventually.

If you have any suggestions how I might accomplish this, I welcome your input.