Custom book binding is a good practice found in some academic libraries. This is done to make sure that the books not lucky enough to be published in hard cover can be preserved well and be used by generations of scholars. An owner of a home library has other reasons for book binding, because typically people are more mindful of their own paperbacks, so the possibility for damaging them is limited. The looks of paperbacks are a different issue, however, They easily fade, they lose appeal and they always look cheap. This is where book binding can help out a lot. You can end up with very neat looking hardbacks that would actually improve the look of your home library rather than cheapen it. Unless you are passionate about book binding and want to make it a hobby or even an occupation (which would involve investing in a book binding machine) your best bet is to find a book binding service. As usual, you can expect volume discounts or even negotiate better discounts if you are lucky and persistent.How much does custom book binding cost?
A ball park figure for basic book binding is around $30 and it goes up very easily once you add options, request leather binding and so on. This may sound like a lot of money, especially if you are considering updating the look of a whole bunch of paperbacks. Keep in mind though, that you are simply paying for the features that you did not have in the original book that you own. Had you purchased a hardback to begin with, how much would that cost? Also, consider the fact that you can turn cheap paperbacks (as well as any other books you own) into superb editions that will greately enhance the appearance of your home library.
Here are a few links that can get you started on your quest for a perfect custom book binding solution:
Virginia Westray
Lynda's Custom Book Binding
Smith Printing Company
