[PADG:1193] Binding paperbacks

["Diane Westerfield" <dwester@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello all,

I am the Bindery/Preservation Coordinator for Loyola University Chicago libraries.  At this time we bind all new paperbacks (and anything else with a soft cover), in addition to binding periodicals and rebinding older books as necessary.

My institution is considering changing the policy so that we would not bind new paperbacks.  We would only bind paperbacks that come through Circulation; that is, only books that are actually being checked out by patrons would be bound.  And to take the policy a step further, we might bind only the circulating paperbacks that are in bad shape.

I understand that other institutions have decided to stop binding their new paperbacks.   I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has been in this situation.  What are the short term and long term effects of this policy?  Pros and cons?  Any information you could give me would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Diane Westerfield
Bindery/Preservation Coordinator
Loyola University Chicago
dwester@xxxxxxxxxxx