Page "Library binding" Paragraph 3

Most library binders use a method of bookbinding called oversewing to secure the volumes.

Oversewing involves cutting or milling off the spines of the volumes, creating a block of loose pages.

Then the loose sheets are combined into small units or signatures, which are secured with overlock stitching.

The separate signatures then get sewn together, creating a single book block.

Often a piece of linen is glued to the book block spine for further support.

The spine of the volume sometimes is rounded and backed to keep the spine from caving in.

But if the paper of the volume is too fragile, or the book block is too thick, the spine is left flat.

The book block is placed in a sturdy cover or case, with special paper covering the inside covers ( Boardway 1993 ).