Notes on Bookbinding for Libraries

"Notes on Bookbinding for Libraries" by John Cotton Dana is a comprehensive guide to the process of rebinding books in a library setting. The book covers various aspects of bookbinding, including the choice of materials, sewing techniques, and the importance of selecting the right binding for different types of books. Dana emphasizes the need for librarians to consider factors such as paper quality, editions, and literary value when deciding whether to rebind a book. The book provides detailed instructions for rebinding both regularly sewn books and whipstitched books, offering practical advice on techniques such as rounding, backing, and covering the boards. Dana also discusses the use of different materials, such as pigskin, morocco, and cloth, for backs and covers, highlighting the importance of selecting materials that are durable and suitable for the level of wear a book is likely to receive. The book includes illustrations and diagrams to help readers understand the various binding techniques and materials discussed. Overall, "Notes on Bookbinding for Libraries" serves as a valuable resource for librarians looking to improve their binding practices and ensure the longevity of their book collections.

John Cotton Dana (born August 19, 1856 in Woodstock, Vermont — d. July 21, 1929 in Newark, New Jersey) was an American library and museum director who sought to make these cultural institutions relevant to the daily lives of citizens. As a public librarian for forty years Dana promoted the benefits of reading, pioneered direct access to shelved materials, and innovated specialized library services of all types.