Book Repair for Old books ... cover and spine

Hey fellow Folio folks ...

I know I should post this in a more generic group but i thought I would start here because I have been a long time member of this group and I trust and value many of the folks opinions in this forum.

Just looking for any info on going about repairing the cover/spine of an old 200 year old book.

If you can point me in a good direction.

If you can tell me any good stories or horror stories I can learn from.

Any posts on this topic or websites that will get me head down a good path.

Anything to think about before doing this?

Just any advice would be greatly appreciated.

And if anyone is from Southern California, USA and they know of a place that handles this with good results ... that would be great.

Thanks in advance!!!

You could also visit the Book Care and Repair Group at https://www.librarything.com/ngroups/602/Book-Care-and-Repair

It will be several hundred dollars to have done properly, so it depends what the book is whether it’s worth doing. If it’s a family Bible, it’s not worth it from an economic standpoint. If it’s a family item that needs protection, a Solander box might be a better option. I don’t personally know of any binders stateside, but I’m sure others can point you in that direction.

>2 wcarter: thank you for that link!

>3 cwl: I appreciate that info. It's actually a friends book ... he just asked me if I know anyone who does this type of repair. I haven't gotten all the details as to the specifics of the book. I'm trying to gather as much good info as I can.

I'm also interested in this info for possible personal future needs as well.

>1 thisGuy33: Just looking for any info on going about repairing the cover/spine of an old 200 year old book.

A few photos of the damage would be helpful.

Museum-quality/ archival clear films like Grafix Dura-Lar will protect a delicate item like a dust jacket or cover. If dealing with a broken hinge, a single-stitched binder tape might be the way to go.

>1 thisGuy33:

Here's a list of members of the Guild of Book Workers California chapter who take commissioned work: https://gbwcaliforniachapter.wordpress.com/member-referrels/

Thank you all for you guidance ... it's been super helpful. Much appreciated!!!