BINDERY HANDBOOK – CONTENTS

Table of Contents
Preface ....................................................................................................................................... 2
Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 3
General Guidelines .................................................................................................................... 5
Flow Chart ................................................................................................................................. 7
Preparing Materials for Bindery Prep........................................................................................ 8
Guidelines for Developing Binding Titles............................................................................... 16
Binding Specifications............................................................................................................. 20
Quality Control and Inspection ............................................................................................... 37
Mistake, Cosmetic, or Structural Problem? ............................................................................. 40
Departmental Theses and Dissertations ................................................................................. 43
Guidelines for Stabilizing Enclosures for Rare Book Room Materials ................................... 46
Processing Binding Returns .................................................................................................... 48
Rush Services for Library Binding .......................................................................................... 50
BINDERY HANDBOOK – PREFACE

Library binding is one of the largest single preservation expenditures of any academic library,
and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is no different. The purpose of this
handbook is to provide those tasked with preparing materials for binding at this institution
with a uniform set of instructions and some guidance the selection and preparation of
materials for binding.

It is strongly recommended that those responsible for binding read the portions of the
manual relevant to them before preparing materials for binding. This will enable them to
develop a better understanding of their role in a long-running and productive relationship.

Each section of this handbook includes a rationale and a number of sections intended to
further your understanding of the binding process.

The following is a list of the sections in this handbook and their intended purpose:
 General Guidelines – This section provides some quick information and some basic
guidelines for bindery preparation activities for branch and departmental library
personnel.
 Flowchart – This flowchart outlines the bindery preparation process.
 Preparing Materials for Binding Prep. – This section provides basic instructions about
how serials, monographs, and theses and dissertations are prepared for shipment to
the Bindery Preparations Unit.
 Developing Spine Information – How does one get the bound spine to appear in such a
way that our patrons can read it? This section includes an outline of how one would
go about developing logical spine marking for a new serial title in the most efficient
manner.
 Binding Colors – This section contains sample swatches and codes for determining
what color buckram to choose for new serial binding.
 Binding Specifications – This section of the Manual contains the Library’s binding
specifications as outlined in the most recent request for Proposal (RFP).
 QC and Inspection – This section outlines the quality control and inspection program
conducted by the Bindery Preparations Unit’s student personnel.
 Mistakes, Cosmetic, and Structural Problems – This section contains a thumbnail sketch of
some of the problems found in library bindings and how they are reported to the
Bindery.
 Departmental Binding of Theses – This section provides instructions for academic units
on campus that desire to bind theses and dissertations for their own collections.

It is our hope that this Manual serves as a guide for you. However, we do not expect that it
will answer all questions about the process. If questions arise, please do not hesitate to
contact the Bindery Preparations Unit at campus extension 3-1997.

2
BINDERY HANDBOOK – DEFINITIONS
Adhesive Binding: The type of binding in which single leaves are secured together solely with
an adhesive applied to the textblock’s spine edge. Animal glues, polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glues, and
hot melt adhesives have all been used in the past for this type of binding, sometimes refered to as
“perfect binding”. Sections with perforations along the folds (or adhesive penetration into the folds
to hold each section together) is also a type of adhesive binding, commercially known as perfo-,
burst, mecha-notch, or perfopunch binding. See also Double Fan Adhesive Binding.

Disbinding: The action of removing the textblock from its cover or binder by easing the
endsheets away from the textblock and by slitting the super (if present) with a scalpel. When a library
binder disbands something, the process may involve milling the spine.

Double Fan Adhesive Binding A type of adhesive binding where the spine margin of each
leaf in an unglued textblock is exposed 1/16" or less for an application of adhesive. The margin is
exposed on both sides of each leaf by clamping the textblock on a vise-like press and then pushing
against the textblock, first in one direction, then the other, thereby fanning or separating the edges of
the leaves.

Enclosures: Enclosures are defined as any containers constructed by the Binder for the
Libraries

Endsheets: The pages at the beginning and end of a volume added to both protect the
textblock and to secure it into the cover. End papers include both paste-downs and flyleaves.

Fixed Information (Fields): Fixed information is all of the information printed on the
spine of a bound volume in the space reserved for the title and the call number. In bindery
preparation software, the information is inserted into the fixed fields within the database,
and it never changes from volume to volume.

Flat back (sometimes referred to as square back) is a textblock that has not been rounded or backed.

Flyleaf is the leaf (or leaves) forming that part of the folded endsheet not pasted down to the inside
of the cover boards. Its function is to protect the first or last leaves of the textblock. See also End
Papers and Paste-down.

Milling: A method used by library binders to remove old leaf attachments and prepare a text
block for double-fan adhesive binding or oversewing. The milling machine clamps the textblock,
spine down, and moves it over a series of rotating blades that cut away approximately 1/32 to 1/16
inch of the binding margin, thus removing old adhesive, thread, staples, and/or the folds of
signatures. After milling, a text block is comprised of loose leaves.

Monograph(s): A book or monograph is defined as one piece of graphic material

submitted for binding or rebinding as a single unit without reference to another unit, or with
no demand placed on the Binder to match one (1) unit to another. Although some items in
this category may be bibliographically classed as serials or may be part of a set, the Library
assumes responsibility for uniformity of color of cloth and stamping foil if desired.

3
Pastedown: The half of an endsheet that is glued to the inside of the cover board.

Rounding and Backing: Rounding is the process of hammering the textblock’s spine
into a convex shape preparatory to backing. Rounding diminishes the effect of swelling
caused by the thickness of the sewing threads or the application of glue from an adhesive
binding. It also helps to prevent the textblock spine from falling into a concave shape after
years of use or of standing upright on a shelf. Backing is the process of shaping a ridge or
shoulder on each side of the spine of a text block after rounding it, and prior to lining it.
Backing accommodates the thickness of the boards, and provides a hinge along which they
swing. Backing also helps to prevent the spine of the text block from collapsing into a
concave shape over time.

Serials/Periodicals: In the case of bindery preparations, a serial is defined as a series of

two or more previously unbound, serially numbered units to be bound together.
Alternatively, a single unit to be bound separately, for which the binding color must be
selected, and the cover stamped with information so as to match the other volumes in the
same set or series, may be considered a serial. An example of this would be a very thick issue
that cannot be bound with additional issues. The Library initially supplies the stamping
information, but the Binder assumes responsibility for maintaining the integrity of it for the
duration of the contract.

Thesis/Dissertation: A dissertation and/or theses is defined as one piece of graphic

material submitted for binding as a single unit without reference to another unit. The color is
pre-selected by the Library, and the spine stamped with lettering running from bottom to
top, so as to match other publications in the same category. The imprinting information for
each is provided to the Binder by the Library. The Binder assumes responsibility for
maintaining the integrity of non-variable information for the duration of the contract.

Variable Information (Fields): Variable information is all of the information printed

on the spine of a bound volume that appears between the title and the call number. This
information might include such data as the volumes and issues or the years and months of
publication. In bindery preparation software, the information is inserted into the variable
fields within the database.

New case only (or re-case) for marginally brittle items or for volumes
where this treatment is specified.
• Sewing through the fold
• Double fan adhesive binding
• Oversewing, or side sewing

4
BINDERY HANDBOOK – GENERAL GUIDELINES

This section of the Bindery Handbook provides some very basic guidelines for preparing
materials for library binding. This section is, however, only a general introduction. It does
not provide all the information needed. Most of that is covered in the following sections.

Bundling Materials – Please use string, not rubber bands when bundling loose serials for
library binding. Single issue serials and monographs that are intact should not be bundled.

Cataloging Problems – Any cataloging problems discovered in the binding process shall be
discussed with Serials Cataloging personnel.

Microform Replacements – According to the Binding Guidelines approved by the Collection

Development Committee, most serials superceded by microform replacements should not
be bound. Individual libraries are expected to comply with this guideline.

Quotas – To assist in the flow of materials to the bindery, each library has received a
binding quota that dictates the maximum number of serials that can be sent per month.
Exceeding or abusing the monthly quota will result in materials being returned.
 Extra binding capacity or special projects should be discussed with the department
head. Depending upon workflow, staffing, budgetary constraints, etc…, Bindery
Preparations personnel may be able to accommodate your needs.

Rush Processing – Rush processing indicates top priority processing for Bindery
Preparations personnel. When requested, these materials will be processed for the outgoing
shipment at the last opportunity and unpacked and processed immediately upon return.
 Rush processing should only be requested when absolutely necessary. Abuse of this
option will result in suspension of this privilege.

Streamers – In order to assist Preservation and Conservation, the following streamers have
been developed or modified to ensure proper processing. Inaccurate or inadequate
information may result in the item being returned to the sending library for correction
before further processing may take place. Streamers not completed at all will be returned.
 Broken materials of any form (monographs, journals, pamphlets, etc....) get a
green “Preservation and Conservation” streamer (GEN 204). These items will be
triaged and treated as appropriate. In addition to completing the streamer, please
change the item status as appropriate (See Below: Voyager Status).
 Unbound serials get a yellow binding streamer (GEN 39-89 Rev. 10/99). This
should be fully and accurately completed to ensure that you are getting what you
want back and not an incorrectly bound piece. Instructions for completing these
streamers are included in the section of this manual entitled Binding Handbook –
Preparing Materials for Bindery Preparations. In addition to completing the
streamer, please change the item status as appropriate (See Below: Voyager
Status).
 New Monograph Acquisitions requiring binding get a white monograph binding
streamer (GEN 157). Fill out the streamer completely to avoid having it returned.

5
 In addition to completing the streamer, please change the item status as
appropriate (See Below: Voyager Status).
 Circulated Paperbacks – Undamaged paperbacks that have circulated a
minimum of three times should be bound. They should be prepared in the same
manner as any New Monograph Acquisitions and sent directly to the Bindery
Preparations Unit.

Volume Thickness – Serials prepared for library binding should not exceed 2.5” whenever
possible.

Voyager Status – In order maintain bibliographic control over our collections and access to
our materials in process, all materials sent for library binding should have their item status
updated to the correct status.
 The item status of all new monographs prepared for library binding directly from
Cataloging should be changed to “At Bindery”, and the location should read “In
Process.”
 All damaged library materials should be sent to “Preservation and Conservation”
using the appropriate streamer. The item status of these materials should be changed
to “At Bindery”, and the location should be changed to “Damaged.”
 The item status of all circulated paperback monographs prepared for library
binding should be changed to “At Bindery.”
 The item status of all serials sent for binding should be updated to indicate that the
item is “At Bindery.”

6
BINDERY HANDBOOK – FLOW CHART
This flow chart roughly outlines the progression of materials through the Library’s Bindery
Preparations Process.

Libraries

Materials Selected for Binding

Materials Collated and Bundled for Binding

Receiving and Shipping Transfer Materials

Bindery Preparations
Materials Sorted
Binding Tickets Created
Materials Packed for Transit
Binding Information Transmitted to Bindery

Holdings Info Unbound Materials

Serials Cataloging Bindery

Materials are Inspected, Collated, and Sorted

Item Records Created for Bound Volumes
Text Blocks Prepared and Bound
Serials Maintenance Reconciles Irregularities and
Covers Prepared and Constructed
Errors in Records
Text Blocks and Covers Joined (Cased-In)
Materials Inspected, Invoiced, and Packed

Item Information Bound Materials

OPAC Bindery Preparations

Materials Unpacked (Serials, then Monographs

New item records list status and Theses)
as “At Bindery” Materials Inspected, Stamped, Security Stripped,
and Sent to Libraries
Errors are Re-Inspected, Evaluated for Severity,
Recorded, and Either Returned or Sent to
Libraries

Bound Materials

Libraries
Item Information
Materials Received and Inspected
Errors are Returned to Bindery Preparations
Materials are Barcoded and Shelved.

Bound Item

Patrons

Access to Bound Items

7
BINDERY HANDBOOK – PREPARING MATERIALS FOR BINDERY PREP

Rationale: The purpose of this section is to outline the steps necessary for preparing
materials to be sent to the Bindery Preparations Unit.

I. Definitions

A. Serials: In the case of bindery preparations, a serial is defined as a

series of two or more previously unbound, serially numbered units to be
bound together. Alternatively, a single unit to be bound separately, for which
the binding color must be selected, and the cover stamped with information
so as to match the other volumes in the same set or series, may be
considered a serial. An example of this would be a very thick issue that
cannot be bound with additional issues.

1. Whenever possible, all issues that are individually stapled through the
fold (i.e., Time, Newsweek, etc…) are sewn through the fold by the
bindery to permit maximum openability and future rebinding.

2. Volumes that are not sewn through the fold

B. Monographs: A monograph is defined as one unit of textual or graphic

material that is bound as a single unit. Monographic sets are monographs that
are issued in several volumes and are bound separately but generally in the
same book cloth. If monographs from the same set have been bound
previously, you can request the same cover color. Monographic sets are not
recorded in the permanent database, so it is necessary that you request the
same cover color each time.

II. Preparing Serials for Binding

A. Physical Preparation

1. Select the pieces that are to be bound together. This unit should be
no thicker than 2 – 2.5”.

a. If the pages are glossy, all effort should be made to not exceed a
1.5 – 2” measurement.

2. When dividing volumes to fit within the recommended thickness,

attention should be paid to logically breaking volumes.

a. Logical breaks, or How TO Create Volume Breaks:

Annual – Whether single or multiple years, items should include

logical annual breaks that conform with calendar or volume years.
This method permits whole volumes to be bound together.

8
 Bi-annual – Volumes are split into two pieces, i.e., January – June
and July – December.

Tri-annual – January – April, May – August, September –

December.

Quarterly – Volumes are split into three pieces, i.e., January –

March, April – June, July – September, and October – December.

Bi-monthly – Materials are bound once every two months. Six

bound pieces equal one calendar year.

Monthly

b. Illogical breaks, or How NOT TO Create Volume Breaks:

January – Mid-March – The first binding unit for a calendar year

spans from January to mid-March. The second runs from mid-
March to mid-June.

December 2000 – Mid-January 2002 – Not only are months split

unnecessarily, but the calendar year is split illogically. The result
for variable spine information is that there are two sets of volume
and issue numbers.

Split Volumes – Binding six months of 1997 and 1998 together if it

means that there are parts of serial volumes bound into each
piece is confusing to users and poor bibliographic practice.

3. Check if any issues are missing from the batch.

a. If the answer is yes, see if the piece was checked out or not
received. If the missing issue is checked out, wait for it to return
before binding or attempt to recall the piece. If the piece was not
received, attempt to claim or replace the missing issue before
binding.

b. If the answer is no, go to the next step.

4. Remove all inserts and loose advertisements. Note if there are folded
pages, errata sheets, or loose indices or tables of contents.

5. Stack the issues as they will be bound, i.e., with the earliest in the
series on the top of the pile. For a monthly piece, the volumes should
progress from January to December. For numbered pieces, the
volumes should progress from volume 1:1 to 1:2, to 1:3, etc….
Bindery Preparations does not untie and check the order of ever

9
 piece received. Consequently, serials are bound in the order they are
received. It is the responsibility of the preparing library to ensure that their
materials are bound in the correct order. Please check the order carefully before
sending them.

6. Ensure that the issues are labeled with the correct call numbers,
volume/year, and copy number. Each issue must have a label.

7. Rubber-band the issues together.

8. If the pieces to be bound are older, please check to see if they are
brittle. To do this, complete a fold test by folding the corner of a
single page over itself and back again three times. If the corner breaks
off, the paper is too brittle to be commercially bound. Consult with
Preservation and Conservation staff about what to do with the
pieces.

B. Notes on Preparing Serials Binding Streamers

1. Use a previously bound volume as a guide for the marking when

completing the yellow serials binding streamer (Gen form 39-89 Rev.
10/99).

2. Fully and accurately complete all piece specific information (call

number, copy number, volume(s), month(s), year(s), etc…) on the
binding streamer (see C. Preparing the Yellow Serials…).

3. Indicate whether or not the title should be sent to the Stacks upon
return.

4. Make sure that the title is the same as the previously bound volumes.
If the title or call numbers on issues are different, further
investigation may be necessary before binding.

5. If a journal has not been bound by your library previously, check to

see if another UIUC library “owns” a copy of the journal. If they
have bound it previously, your library is required to use their marking
pattern, color choice, title, etc…. Check with the owning library to
confirm the color, marking information, etc…. If your library is the
first to bind the title, you can choose the color, etc…. However, all
title information should be consistent with the title visible on the
OPAC. Check the marking note in the holdings record to see that it
corresponds to the marking pattern you have chosen.

6. If you are binding a title which has been cancelled, ceased, or

continued by another title, notify the appropriate individuals in
Cataloging to ensure that records can be properly updated in the
automated system.

10
 7. If you are binding a title that has not been bound in the last three
years or is in a non-Western language, include the title information in
the section near the bottom of the streamer labeled “Title” as it
appears in the OPAC.

a. For non-Western characters, please include a neatly printed

transliteration. As the Bindery Preparations staff do not have
facility in all of the languages currently represented by the
collection, the accuracy of your binding depends upon our
being able to read this information.

C. Preparing the Yellow Serials Binding Streamer

1. Sending Library: This is the three-letter code for your library.

2. Send to Stacks: Circle the appropriate response to whether or

not this piece should be sent to the Stacks after binding.

3. Bound Before: Indicate whether or not the title has been

bound within the last five years. If the title has not been bound in the
last five years, circle “No”.

a. If the title is an analytic cataloged as a set, include the Library’s

color preference for new titles as indicated in the Library Buckram
Color Guide (available from the Bindery Preparations Unit). If no
color preference is made for analytics, the default color choice is
black.

4. Call Number: Include the full and proper call number for the piece
with the appropriate cutter lines, etc…. This will be exactly what will
appear on the spine of the bound volume, and it should match the
call number that appears in the OPAC.

a. If there are supplements, indices, or missing issues, please include

this information in the Added Info Field (#17 below). This will
permit our staff to add notes when space permits that will fit on
the spine of the volume.

b. The only variable information permitted in the call number is the

copy number. No volume, issue, or date number should be
included in this space.

5. Copy Number: If appropriate, include the copy number as it

should appear on the spine of your bound volume.

6. Volume: If appropriate, write the volume number as it should

appear on the spine of your bound volume.

11
7. Months: If appropriate, write the month or month(s) that
should appear on the spine of your bound volume. Check to ensure
that all months indicated are actually included.

8. Year(s): If appropriate, write the year(s) that should appear on

the spine of your bound volume. Check to ensure that all years
indicated are actually included. If there are years, leave the missing
year out. For example, an annual bound once every five years that is
missing the fourth year should appear as the following: 1 – 3, 5.

9. Number(s): If appropriate, write the number(s) that should appear

on the spine of your bound volume. Check to ensure that all
numbers indicated are actually included. If there are missing issues or
numbers, leave the missing number out. For example, a year of a
monthly publication that is missing the November issue should be
represented as the following: 1 – 10, 12.

10. Pages: If appropriate, write the pages(s) that should appear on the
spine of your bound volume. Check to ensure that all pages indicated
are actually included.

11. Abstract Number: If appropriate, write the abstract number(s)

that should appear on the spine of your bound volume. Check to
ensure that all abstract numbers included are actually included. If
there are missing numbers, leave the missing number out.

12. Missing Issue Number: If appropriate, write the numbers of

any missing issues so that records can be properly updated. Include a
note in the Added Information field (#17 below) asking that “INC.”
be part of the call number. This will indicate to the user that the
bound volume is incomplete.

13. Page or Cover Folds: Indicate whether or not there are any page or
cover folds in the set of issues to be bound.

14. Maps, Pockets, etc…: Indicate whether or not there are any
maps, pockets, or other oddities in the set of issues to be bound.

15. If Not Bound…Title: If you are binding a title that has not
been bound in the last three years or is in a non-Western language,
include the title information in the section near the bottom of the
streamer labeled “Title” as it appears in the OPAC. For non-Western
characters, please include a neatly printed transliteration. The
accuracy of your binding depends upon our being able to read this
information.

12
 16. Added Information: Include any additional information about the
piece that you believe the Bindery Preparation Unit should know
about. Examples include:

a. Narrow inner margins (less than 5/8th inch) should be noted as

they affect the binding options.

b. Library’s color preference for new titles as indicated in the Library

Buckram Color Guide (available from the Bindery Preparations
Unit). If no color preference is made for new periodicals, color
choice will be at the Bindery Preparations Unit’s discretion.
Also, include your color choice for new binding.

c. Supplements, Indices, and Incomplete Volumes: If your piece has

any of these, please include a note in the Added Information field
indicating that a note should be made on the spine of the piece.

 For Supplements, use the abbreviation “Sup.”

 For Indices, use the abbreviation, “Ind.”
 For incomplete volumes, use the abbreviation “Inc.”

17. Person to Contact: Include your name in this field. If there are
problems or omissions on the streamer, this allows the Bindery
Preparations staff to contact you for clarification or to return the
item for more specific directions.

III. Preparing Paperback Monographs for Binding

A. Physical Preparation

1. Presently, the only monographs that should be sent directly to

Bindery Preparations are:

a. New paperback monographs requiring binding due to projected

heavy use (e.g., materials for Reserve or Reference
collections).

b. New paperback monographs requiring commercial binding due

to their physical construction (oversized, undersized, etc…) or
due to poor construction. These are identified during initial
processing Acquisitions processing.

c. Undamaged paperback monographs that have circulated more

than three times.

2. Records for new monographs selected for binding require that the
Voyager item status is updated to indicate that the item is “At

13
 Bindery.” Those direct from Acquisitions processing should also
have their item location indicate that the item is ”In Process.”

3. All monographs sent for binding that have moved beyond the
Acquisitions processing phase should be sent with a completed
Monograph Binding Streamer (Gen 157). One streamer must be
completed for each volume.

B. Determining Binding Style for Paperbacks – Digicover or “Buckram”

Binding?

1. The following decision tree governs the decision-making process

in the Bindery Preparations Unit for determining how paperback
volumes will be bound. The decision tree is used for both new
acquisitions selected for binding upon receipt based upon physical
size or other criteria presented in the Library’s Binding Guidelines
and for items that are already part of the collection and have (1)
been damaged, or (2) circulated a minimum of three times.

Binding Style Decision-Making Criteria

Digicover New Un-circulated Books
 Paperbacks
 Weighing less than two pounds
 Without “book jacket” style covers
 Without accompanying materials (maps, CDs, etc…)
 Is not bound with spirals, staples, combs, posts, or
other incompatible binding structures such as single
signatures
 Suitable to be bound; cover intact
Hard Bind/Save Any volume not meeting above criteria, and
Covers in C-cloth  Weighing under two pounds
 With or without accompanying materials (maps,
CDs, etc…)
 Containing any element making it unsuitable for
digicover binding
 Suitable to be bound
Hard Bind/Save Any volume not meeting above criteria, with paperback cover
Covers in Buckram  Suitable to be bound
 Weighing over two pounds
 With or without accompanying materials
Hard Any volume that Binding Preparations Unit determines:
Bind/Economy  Has hard cover that is damaged
Book in Buckram  Has broken signatures on cover page
 Can be adhesive bound
 May have accompanying material (maps, CDs, etc.)
Hard Bind/Recase Any volume that Binding Preparations Unit determines:
Book in Buckram  Has hard cover that is damaged
 Has intact signatures for recasing
Do Not Bind/ Any volume that Binding Preparations Unit determines:
Return to Library  Does not meet any above criteria
 Has insufficient margins to bind safely

14
VI. Theses and Dissertations

A. Theses and dissertations are received from the graduate schools shortly
after the completion of each semester.

B. All thesis and dissertations from the University of Illinois are bound in
color 588 (royal blue).

C. Unless specifically requested, theses and dissertations are considered low-

priority and are processed as time permits.

VII. Additional Notes

A. Flush Binding

1. The current binding contract specifies that materials over three

inches in thickness or materials that are exceedingly heavy will be
bound flush bottom automatically, meaning that there will be no
square on the bottom of the volume. This practice prevents gravity
from exerting force on such bindings and pulling the text out of the
case.

15
BINDERY HANDBOOK – GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING BINDING TITLES

Rationale: The purpose of this section is to outline the manner in which units should
shorten publishers’ titles so that they (1) follow accepted international
standards, (2) minimize excessive binding and preparation costs, and (3) are
consistently developed for all titles bound throughout the Library system.

I. Developing Spine Information

A. Title Information: Anglo-American Cataloging Rules: Rule 6b of AACR2

states that an institution should:

Enter a periodical, monographic series or serially published bibliography,

index, dictionary, biographical dictionary, almanac or yearbook, issued
by or under the authority of a corporate body, under its title….

1. Application of AACR2 eliminates the corporate author from the

spine (unless embodied in the title).

a. CANADA. BUREAU OF STATISTICAL REVIEW should

appear as CANADIAN STATISTICAL REVIEW.

2. In cases where titles are duplicated, qualifying information should be

added. An example would be adding the country of origin.

a. CANADA. DEPT. OF LABOUR. LABOUR GAZETTE and

INDIA. COMMISSIONER OF LABOUR AND DIRECTOR
OF EMPLOYMENT. LABOUR GAZETTE would become
LABOUR GAZETTE (CANADA) and LABOUR GAZETTE
(INDIA)

3. Acronyms or the initials of corporate authors should be used

whenever possible.

a. INTERNATIONAL MOULDERS AND ALLIED

WORKERS UNION JOURNAL should become IMAWU
JOURNAL

4. Abbreviations of common words or terms can be used when

necessary. However, certain conditions should be followed:

a. UNIVERSITY should be abbreviated as UNIV. and not UN.

b. American states should be abbreviated only using normal, two-

letter United States Post Office forms.

16
 c. Familiar abbreviations may be used. For example, UCLA,
UNLV, etc….

d. In cases where the abbreviation may not be common, the more

formal abbreviation should be used. For example,
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA should be UNIV. OF CA.

5. When the title is a generic word followed by the name of a corporate

body, the title should be inverted.

a. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL

ASSOCIATION should be AMERICAN MEDICAL
ASSOCIATION JOURNAL.

b. This does not apply to titles such are JOURNAL OF

CONSERVATION SCIENCE.

6. Non-English titles should be shortened only by staff members

possessing facility with the language.

7. Non-western languages should be Romanized by staff members

possessing facility with the language.

B. Variable Information: Variable information is any information that

appears between the title and the call number. This may include:
enumeration, chronology, and various item-specific notes.

1. Contents should be clearly identified by the spine information, using

only Arabic numeration.

2. Should a bound volume contain an index issued in addition to the

standard volumes, the variable information should read:

10
1 – 10
Index

1970

3. Months should be displayed on a spine only when a volume is split

within a single year.

10
Jan – June

1970

17
4. Some European publications are organized by year and number.
For example, a piece may have been published in 1991 and contain
numbers 1 – 26 for items published between January and June. The
variable information on this volume should appear as:

1991
1 - 26

5. When there is more than one volume to a year, months should not
appear.

10 11

1970 1970

6. When a volume includes more than one calendar year, months

should not appear.

10

1970 - 1971

7. In the case of a new series of volume numbers, “new series” should

be indicated thusly:

10

1970

n.s.

8. When a volume is bound with some of its parts missing, the volume’s
incomplete status should be indicated as follows:

10

1970

INC

9. If a bound volume includes a supplement that is not listed in the

table of contents, an abbreviates should be added as follows:

10

1970

18
 SUPP

10. If a complete supplementary volume is bound, the spine should be

lettered as follows:

SUPPS. SUPP
1–5 1970

1970

11. Too much detail can be just as confusing to our patrons as too little
detail. It is not necessary to put more information on the spine than
is necessary for the patron to locate the information they are seeking
as represented in the OPAC.

C. Dewey and LC Call Numbers: The standard Dewey or Library of

Congress call number on a bound serial volume should not change from
volume to volume. The one exception is including a copy number for items
that are duplicated on campus. All variable information required should be
included in the spaces for variable information.

D. SuDoc Call Numbers: As a different classification construction,

SuDoc call numbers on bound serials will, in some cases, change from items
to item. Variable information required should not repeat any more than
necessary.

19
BINDERY HANDBOOK – BINDING SPECIFICATIONS

Rationale: The purpose of this section is to outline the Library’s binding specifications.
These are used by the Library to determine what binding styles to choose and
by the bindery to determine what binding styles will be used. The
specifications are used by both organizations to outline the terms and
conditions of work completed for the Library.

I. Definitions of Binding Units: The following definitions of binding units

shall be the basis for unit prices in any proposal or resulting contract for binding
services for the University of Illinois Libraries. The University will designate the
binding style to be provided; any deviations from such designations are to be made
only with the prior written consent of the University. The University will be charged
the unit price as agreed to by the Binder in this proposal request and the resulting
contract, for the style that was actually employed for each binding unit.

A. Book(s)/Monograph(s): A book or monograph is defined as one piece

of graphic material submitted for binding or rebinding as a single unit
without reference to another unit, or with no demand placed on the Binder
to match one (1) unit to another. Although some items in this category may
be bibliographically classed as serials or may be part of a set, the Library
assumes responsibility for uniformity of color of cloth and stamping foil.

B. Serials/Periodicals: A serial and/or periodical is defined as a single piece

of graphic material bound separately, or a series of two (2) or more serially
numbered graphic units bound together, for which the cloth color shall be
selected, and the cover stamped with information so as to match other
publications in the same set or series. The Library initially supplies the
stamping information, but the Binder assumes responsibility for maintaining
the integrity of it for the duration of the contract.

C. Paperbacks: Identical to 4.9.1 Book(s)/Monograph(s).

D. Thesis/Dissertation: A dissertation and/or theses is defined as one piece

of graphic material submitted for binding as a single unit without reference
to another unit. The color is pre-selected by the Library, and the spine
stamped with lettering running from bottom to top, so as to match other
publications in the same category. The imprinting information for each is
provided to the Binder by the Library. The Binder assumes responsibility for
maintaining the integrity of non-variable information for the duration of the
contract.

E. Enclosures: Enclosures are defined as any containers constructed by the

Binder for the Libraries.

II. Basic Specifications for Monograph and Periodical Bindings

20
A. Examination and Collation

1. All volumes shall be examined according to the Standard to detect

damaged leaves and peculiarities that might make either first-time
binding or rebinding inadvisable.

2. Whenever necessary, the Binder shall set out (with strips of alkaline
paper or cloth of an appropriate weight) all double leaves, maps, and
inserts, in order to preserve printed matter that would otherwise be
destroyed by trimming and/or sewing along the spine edge.

3. Incomplete or imperfect volumes shall be returned to the Library

unbound unless the Library has acknowledged the incompleteness in
some way. For example, a note instructing the Binder to “Bind as is”.

B. Mending and Extending

1. Mending: The Binder may only repair tears along the binding
edge if necessary to bind the volume and shall use pressure-sensitive
alkaline paper mending tape or Japanese tissue and paste. The Binder
is not authorized to make other repairs unless the Libraries
specifically ask for the treatment.

2. Extending: Whenever necessary, the Binder shall extend or set

out with strips of alkaline paper or cloth of an appropriate weight, all
double leaves, maps, and inserts, in order to preserve the printed
matter which would otherwise be destroyed by trimming and/or
sewing along the binding edge.

C. Removing Backs & Preparing Text Blocks for Binding

1. For the text blocks which must have the spine edge trimmed or
milled away in preparation for oversewing or double fan adhesive
binding, care should taken to preserve as much as possible of the
inner margin. Milling shall conform to ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78-
2000 7.3.1 or 7.4.1.

2. Very bulky periodical issues that are saddle stitched, and which
cannot be sewn through the fold (i.e., when they must be bound
together with non-saddle stitched issues) shall be prepared for
adhesive binding or oversewing by slitting through the fold rather
than by trimming or milling.

3. All staples must be pulled from side stapled text blocks to provide an
inner margin of maximum width.

4. Staples shall be removed from all saddle-stitched issues prior to their

being sewn through the fold.

21
 5. Newspapers and periodicals with minimal inner margins should be
prepared for adhesive binding or oversewing by slitting through the
fold rather than by trimming or milling.

6. For Double Fan Adhesive Binding, the Binder may choose to notch
the spine to ensure greater durability. The notches shall not exceed
3/32 inch deep.

D. Trimming

1. Although the Libraries do permit trimming, it is expected that all

trimming will be kept to an absolute minimum. When trimming is
done, the heads, fore edges, and tails of text blocks shall be trimmed
as slightly as possible, and under no circumstances shall printed
matter be trimmed away.

2. Trimming shall not be used to remove staples from a side-stapled

item; they shall be carefully pulled from the item instead.

3. Periodicals issued in signatures that are to be oversewn or adhesive

bound shall be prepared by slitting through the fold rather than by
trimming or milling.

4. The Libraries may specify that individual volumes remain untrimmed.

5. The Binder will leave text blocks untrimmed when necessary to

preserve text, margin notes, illustrations, and folded maps and inserts.

6. Re-cases shall not be trimmed.

7. Should the Binder remove printed matter in trimming, this error will
be corrected under the criteria presented in section 4.6 Damaged or
Destroyed Materials of this request.

E. Stubbing and Bound Together Materials

1. When periodical parts of different heights are to be bound together,

the bottom of the resulting text block should be flush, not the top.
Stubbing shall be used whenever practical to make up for size
differences.

2. In no case shall one piece be trimmed excessively for the purpose of

making it conform to a smaller piece with which it must be bound.

3. Stubbing shall be added to compensate for thick pockets on back

covers and to correct text blocks which flair out towards the fore
edge.

22
 4. When media are bound together with text blocks, dense foam filling
material, such as Plastizote, may be used to fill in around the media
case.

5. Papers used for stubbing and setting out shall meet the specifications
cited in ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78-2000.

F. Leaf Attachment:
The Binder shall use the specifications and standards set forth in
ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard for Library Binding (ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78-
2000) for all leaf attachment.

1. Preferred Order of Attachment

The Binder shall select the leaf attachment method in accordance
with the specifications listed below. The Libraries' preferred order of
choice for leaf attachment is:

• New case only (or re-case) for marginally brittle items or for
volumes where this treatment is specified.
• Sewing through the fold
• Double fan adhesive binding
• Oversewing, or side sewing

The Binder shall adhere to that order of preferences using the

decision tree and specifications included in this RFP to determine the
appropriate method for each volume. On selected titles, the Library
may state a specific leaf attachment method. When specified on the
binding slip, the Binder shall follow those instructions; however, if
the Binder determines that the specified leaf attachment method
would be inappropriate for the volume, the Library shall be so
advised in order to select a different method. Protective enclosures
shall be by request only.

2. Methods of Leaf Attachment

All leaf attachment methods and practices should meet or exceed the
specifications outlined in the ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard, Section 7.
Any bindings considered to be deficient in this regard will be
regarded as an error.

3. Double Fan Adhesive Binding

Any mechanized process for applying the adhesive, such as the
“Ultrabind” shall be described in the proposal. Machinery used for
notching must be described in the proposal.

4. Sewing Through the Fold

23
 Sewing through the fold should comply with all applicable points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard. Items sewn through the fold should be
sewn securely, without gaps between the signatures.

5. Items Unsuitable for Binding

Items which are unsuitable candidates for any of the above methods
of leaf attachment shall be boxed in accordance with special
instructions provided by the Libraries, or returned to the Libraries
unbound.

G. Rounding and Backing

Text blocks shall be rounded and backed to conform to Section 10 Spine
Treatment of the ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard, except the following:

1. Those which the Binder deems sufficiently rounded and backed.

2. Those that are too fragile or structurally too weak to be subjected to

rounding and backing without the risk of damage to the text block or
sewing structure.

3. Those that will not benefit from the rounding and backing process
due to their structure or shall be damaged by the rounding and
backing process.

4. Monograph or periodical volumes measuring less than 1/2" thick.

H. Back Lining
Backs shall be lined to conform to section 11 and 17.2 of the
ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard.

I. Cover Board
The Cover Board shall conform to 16.0 of the ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard.

J. Covering Material
Cloth used for bindings or enclosures shall be either F-grade Buckram or C-1
grade bookcloth that meet the specifications of ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78-
2000.

K. Case Making
Case construction shall conform to section 12.0 Making the Case of the
ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard.

1. The Libraries will accept either wide-hinged or narrow-hinged cases.

Regardless of hinge chosen, the cases shall be neatly made and
attached securely along the entire text block.

Wide-hinge, flat-backed items that meet the criteria for flush bottom
binding shall be bound flush bottom at no additional charge.

24
 2. If the Binder chooses to reinforce the head and tail of the spine, a
flat-woven braid of strong material of an appropriate weight of spun-
bonded olefin (e.g. Tyvek) shall be used. Cords shall not be used for
any purpose.

3. The Libraries will accept Traditional or Library Corners. There will

be no additional charge for either corner.

L. Stamping
Stamping foil shall conform to section 22.00 of the ANSI/NISO/LBI
Standard and shall be available in white, black, and gold.

M. Lettering
Lettering shall be done to conform to section 12.2 of the ANSI/NISO/LBI
Standard.

1. Type and Size

Lettering shall be of a point size appropriate to the thickness of the
volume. A sixteen (16) to eighteen (18) point size shall be used for
most volumes. Volumes thinner than ¾ inch may be lettered in 14-
point type. Lettering shall not exceed ½ character onto the shoulder
of the front or back cover. Characters must be available in both
upper and lower cases for use when specified. Availability of
diacritics is desirable, but not required. Imprint information and call
numbers shall be included in the price.

2. Placement and Spacing of Stamping

The University reserves the right to determine the placement,
spacing, and size of lettering used on library binding. Author/title
information shall generally be struck on the spine. Call numbers and
variable information shall also generally be struck on the spine.
However, requested exceptions shall be honored.

3. Placement of Call Numbers

Unless otherwise specified, the priority order for placement of call
numbers on the covers of classified volumes is: (1) in horizontal lines
on the tail of the spine, (2) when volumes are thinner than 5/8 inch,
in a horizontal line on the upper left-hand corner of the front cover.

5. Placement of Title/Author Information

The order of priority for placement of title/author information on
the covers of monographs, periodicals, or newspapers volumes is: (1)
unless otherwise specified, in horizontal lines on the spine; (2) when
volumes are thinner than 5/8 inch, in vertical lines running down the
spine.

6. Appearance and Legibility

25
 Lettering must allow for letters and numbers of similar appearance to
be easily differentiated. For example, the number one (1) and the
lower-case letter L, or the number “zero” (0) and the letter O.

N. Casing-In
Casing-in shall conform to ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard 13.0. Text blocks
should be seated evenly, squarely, and securely within the cases. The hinges
should be securely and evenly attached at the head and tail turn-ins.

1. Volumes shall be cased-in and pressed between metal edged boards

or in a hydro-press (i.e., a building-in machine). If the hydro-press is
used, the heat, pressure, and dwell time shall be sufficient to set the
joints, insure good adhesion, and permit the boards of the book to
open easily.

2. The square which projects around the head, fore edge, and tail of the
text block shall be proportionate to the size and weight of the text
block. The squares should be even on all sides and the endpapers
should be evenly applied without bubbles, wrinkles or skew.

3. If a volume is over three (3) inches thick or exceedingly heavy, it

should be cased-in flush-bottom as described in ANSI/NISO/LBI
Standard 13.0.

O. Binding Slips
Binding slips shall be attached in a non-damaging, non-permanent fashion in
a consistent location, preferably at the front of the volume. They must be
easily removed.

P. Pockets and Cases for Supplementary Materials

1. Pockets
Pockets shall be made of alkaline paper, spun olefin (TYVEK), tear
resistant fabric, or fabric and board, depending on the bulk and
weight of the materials they are designed to protect.

Pockets shall be constructed so that the materials they contain are

firmly supported, and are not easily damaged as they are inserted into
or removed from the pocket, i.e., they shall fit the material they are
designed to hold. Inappropriately fitted pockets will be considered an
error, and the items will be returned as such.

Stubbing shall be added to the text block to compensate for the

thickness of the pocket and its contents when pockets for inserts that
are greater than 3/16th inch thick.

2. Cases

26
 Cases for videotapes, audiotapes, compact disks, or 3 ½” computer
diskettes shall consist of durable polyethylene, polypropylene, or
similar inert plastics as outlined under. Under no circumstances shall
plastics with polyvinylchoride (PVC) be used.

Q. Enclosures

1. Phase Boxes
Phase boxes shall be constructed of strong, flexible, alkaline buffered
board, which will crease without splitting. Gray/white barrier board
is preferred. Box configuration shall be: two (2) custom cut strips of
board, crossed and adhered to form a two-ply rear board and four (4)
flaps which wrap around a book and support it firmly. The outer flap
shall be held closed by button and string closures. Only non-
corrosive/non-rusting metal rivets may be used to attach closures.
Rivets shall be attached to the fore edge (not to the front or rear face)
so the box does not damage materials shelved beside it. Lettering and
stamping for standard books/monographs will apply. Library will
provide measurements and binding slip/form to Binder. The
respondent shall provide pricing for P-grade buckram enclosed case.

2. Slip Cases (UIS Only)

Slip cases shall be constructed of strong, flexible, alkaline buffered
board, which will crease without splitting. Gray/white barrier board
is preferred. Lettering and stamping for standard books/
monographs will apply. Library will provide measurements and
binding slip/form to Binder. The slip case shall be covered in P-
grade buckram.

3. Book Boxes, etc….

Double-tray book boxes shall be constructed of materials that
conform to the materials specifications of this contract. Boards shall
be of a weight suitable for the size and weight of the contents they
are meant to protect. Boxes shall be made plain, or shall have a drop-
back construction and shall provide firm support for their contents;
and shall be made so that the contents can be easily removed and
replaced in a non-damaging fashion. Brief title/author information
and call number shall be stamped on the spine using a color of
stamping foil that contrasts well with the Group F buckram used to
construct the box.

R. Special Handling or Treatment

1. Brittle Materials
Materials that are too brittle for binding are to be labeled as such
returned to the Library unbound unless instructions specify
otherwise.

27
 2. Flush Binding
If a text block is over three (3) inches thick or exceedingly heavy, it
shall be bound flush with the bottom of the case. In such cases, the
boards must be cut to eliminate the volume’s tail.

S. Materials Specifications
Unless otherwise specified, all materials used shall be in accordance with the
Material Specifications presented in ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78-2000, Sections
15.0 – 23.0).

1. Endpapers
Endpapers shall be white and in accordance with the Standard.

2. Pockets and Cases

Materials for pockets and cases shall be in accordance with the
specifications presented.

3. Adhesives
All adhesives for all binding processes shall meet the specifications
detailed in Section 19.1-19.5 of the Standard

An emulsion copolymer of internally plasticized polyvinyl acetate

adhesive (PVA) is the adhesive preferred for double-fan adhesive
binding, making the case, and casing-in. Alternative adhesives must
meet the requirements for Alternative Adhesives specified in
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78-2000.

Under no circumstances shall the Binder employ animal-based

adhesives for any process involving materials from the University
collections.

T. General Specifications for Binding

1. The University of Illinois’ RFP specifies multiple grades of products

for monographs. The Library will specify the grades as “standard”,
“custom”, “Digicover”, and “recase”.

• “Economy” products will be “bound as is”.

• Most periodicals and books will conform to the standard
specifications.
• “Custom” products may feature special instructions to which
the Binder must pay close attention. These may include
special collation instructions or specialized tip-ins or repairs.
• “Digicover” products will require basic collation for
completeness and order.

28
 2. The University of Illinois’ request of proposal specifies multiple
grades of products for periodicals. The Library will specify the grades
as “economy”, “standard”, “custom”, and “newspapers”.

• “Economy” products will be “bound as is”.

• “Standard” products will be “bound as is”.
• Most periodicals and books will conform to the standard
specifications.
• “Custom” products will feature special instructions to which
the Binder must pay close attention. This may include special
collation instructions or specialized tip-ins or repairs.
• “Newspapers” products will require basic collation for
completeness and order.

3. The University of Illinois’ request for proposal specifies materials to

be used for enclosures. The Library will specify that the material is to
be boxed and either (a) ship the item, or (b) include measurements on
the binding software.

U. Inspection After Binding

All bound volumes shall be carefully and critically inspected for defects in all
aspects of construction and lettering, as per ANSI/NISO/LBI Standard 14.0
and shall be wiped clean before packing if necessary.

V. Book(s)/Monograph(s) Binding Styles

1. Economy Binding for Book(s)/Monograph(s)

a. Volumes conform to the to the criteria in section 4.10 Basic

Specifications for Monograph and Periodical Bindings
and to all points of ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless
otherwise specified by the Library.

b. Dimensions of base price are 12.5” in height and 2.5” in

thickness.

c. Standard monograph binding is suitable for damaged

hardback books, damaged paperback books, and new
paperback books.

d. The Binder will check for overall completeness and to

anticipate trimming needs so as not to damage material,
although, a page-by-page inspection is not required.

e. Mending of the inner margin will be done.

f. Attached maps and charts will be bound in place.

29
 g. Should sewing through the fold not be possible, the preferred
method of leaf attachment is double fan adhesive binding.
Oversewing is not preferred.

h. For trimming specifications, see section Trimming.

i. Eight (8) lines or eight (8) linear inches of lettering are

included in the base price.

j. If no material color is given, it will be selected at random.

k. Cases will be covered with Group F Buckram, starch-filled

buckram, or cloth appropriate to the size and weight of the
volume with no fewer than twenty (20) choices of color.

l. Stamping will be done in white foil, unless gold or black are

specifically requested. It shall comply with sections 4.10.11
and 4.10.12 and the Binder’s institutional profile.

m. Binding in and mounting paper covers are options.

2. Custom Binding for Book(s)/Monograph(s)

Prices quoted for Custom Binding for Book(s)/Monograph(s) shall
include the following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to the criteria specified in section 4.10

Basic Specifications for Monograph and Periodical
Bindings and in all points of ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78
unless otherwise specified by the Library.

b. Volumes conform to the Economy Binding for Book(s)/

Monographs in all points unless otherwise specified below.

 Loose maps and charts will be placed at the back of

the volume in a pocket of cloth, paper or spun olefin
(TYVEK) which will be offset by stubbing
 Recasing or new casing will be the preferred choice of
leaf attachment for marginally brittle items. Recasing
shall conform to all specifications noted.
 Volumes that consist entirely of loose parts, i.e.,
maps, charts, musical parts, plates, etc., will be
“bound” in a case with pocket(s) to accommodate the
loose items. Nothing is technically bound into the
covers.
 Mixed media binding will include a text block that is
double fan adhesive bound or sewn with a plastizote

30
 tray for the media and the appropriate stubbing to
support and surround the plastic cases as specified in
this RFP.
 Volumes that require special instructions for
replacement pages, splitting volumes, endpaper
preservation, and those that are “bound backwards”
will be bound as custom monographs.

3. Digicover Binding for Paperback Book(s)/Monograph(s)

Prices quoted for Transparent Film Covers for Monographs shall
include the following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to section Basic Specifications for

Monograph and Periodical Bindings and in all points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless otherwise specified by the
Library.

b. The Digicover film shall be clear, durable, and not less than
1.5 mils thick.

c. Original paper covers are to be removed and reapplied to the

new hard board case. If the original spine cover cannot be
used, or if there is no printed author and title on it, the spine
shall be lettered with a brief author, brief title, and complete
call number.

d. The film shall be applied to the outside of the new case and
laminated to it in such a way as to provide a strong, lasting
adhesion resulting in a mirror-like finish completely free of
creases, bubbles, or blemishes of any sort.

e. Library does not prepare a binder’s ticket or form.

f. Leaves shall be attached by double-fan adhesive binding.

g. Soft covers may range up to twelve (12) inches in height and

two (2) inches in thickness without additional cost.

4. Recase Only

a. Retain original leaf attachment (e.g. sewing through the fold)

and retain signatures if present.

b. Maintain rounded or rounded and backed spine shape in

those volumes previously rounded and/or backed.

31
 c. End sheets will be sewn on compatibly with leaf attachment
of the item.

d. No trimming of text block

e. Option for specifications for Custom Book.

f. Specifications for Economy Book.

g. Specifications for covering material as represented in this

contract.

W. Periodicals Binding Styles

1. Economy Binding for Periodicals (UIS Only)

Prices quoted on the following price pages for economy periodicals
shall include the following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to section 4.10 Basic Specifications for

Monograph and Periodical Bindings and in all points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless otherwise specified by the
Library.

b. Volumes measure up to 12.5 inches in height and 2.5 inches

in thickness.
c. Material will never exceed six pounds in weight.

d. Printing of title, sub-title, variable information, and call

number (when specified) on the spine.

e. Method of Leaf Attachment:

• The primary methods for standard periodical binding

shall be sewing through the fold or double fan adhesive
binding with or without optional notching.
• Oversewing should only be used for those materials over
2.5 inches in thickness or glossy papers.

f. Stamping:

• Up to seven (7) lines of horizontal information on the

spine for titles and variable information.
• Up to eight (8) lines for the call number.
• Stamping will be done in white foil, unless gold or black
are specifically requested, or the Library will choose
white, gold or black stamping foil when creating new
patterns.

32
 g. For trimming specifications, see Trimming.

h. Group F Buckram will be used for case making and will be

available in no less than twenty (20) colors.

i. Materials will never require repair prior to binding.

j. Materials will not require any collation.

k. Materials will have a minimum ½” inner margin.

2. Standard Binding for Periodicals

Prices quoted on the following price pages for standard periodicals
shall include the following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to section Basic Specifications for

Monograph and Periodical Bindings and in all points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless otherwise specified by the
Library.

b. Volumes measure up to 12.5 inches in height and 2.5 inches

or less in thickness.

c. Printing of title, sub-title, variable information, and call

number (when specified) on the spine.

d. Examination and collation:

• All issues shall be inspected for completeness, for correct

order of issues, and to determine proper trimming
choices.
• Torn pages on the binding margin shall be mended.
• Incomplete and/or damaged volumes shall be returned to
the Libraries, unless otherwise specified to "bind as is".
• Replacement pages will be checked for completeness and
bound in correct order.
• Title page, table of contents, index, supplements, and
other sections will be bound in the order in which the
bindery receives them from the Library.

e. Method of Leaf Attachment:

• The primary methods for standard periodical binding

shall be sewing through the fold or double fan adhesive
binding with or without optional notching.

33
 • Oversewing should only be used for those materials over
2.5 inches in thickness.

f. Stamping shall comply with section 4.12.1.6.

g. For trimming specifications, see 4.10.3.

h. Group F Buckram will be used for case making and will be

available in no less than twenty (20) colors.

i. Extremely heavy or thick text blocks shall be bound as

specified in section 4.10.18.2.

3. Custom Binding for Periodicals

Prices quoted on the following price pages for standard periodicals
shall include the following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to section Basic Specifications for

Monograph and Periodical Bindings and in all points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless otherwise specified by the
Library.

b. Volumes conform to the Product Specifications for

Standard Periodicals in all points unless otherwise specified
by the Library.

c. Customized collation and binding features may include:

• Odd-sized material will be aligned at the bottom of the

text block, unless otherwise instructed.
• Attached maps and charts will be bound in place. Unless
otherwise specified, loose maps and charts will be placed
at the back of the volume in a pocket.
• Additional awareness of fold-outs and materials
potentially damaged by trimming.
• The Library may specify the attachment of a case for
audiotapes, videotapes, compact disks or computer
diskettes.
• The Library may specify the attachment of a pocket for
diskettes or compact disks.

d. Stamping:
Same for standard binding for periodicals, plus the following:
• Panel lines may be requested and will be printed where
requested by the Libraries.

3. Newspapers

34
Prices quoted on the following price pages for Newspapers shall
include the following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to section Basic Specifications for

Monograph and Periodical Bindings and in all points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless otherwise specified by the
Library

b. Newspapers are printed daily, weekly, or sometimes less

often, and contain recent news stories. A newspaper is
printed on newsprint, and is therefore a very fragile item
requiring specialized attention.

c. Newspapers are 16” or more in height.

d. The Binder should describe several methods used for

newspaper binding. The Libraries will specify leaf attachment
and special instructions based on the services that the Binder
can supply. The Libraries prefers methods that can be
reversed and that preserve the maximum amount of the inner
margins. Methods may include reinforcement of folds and
hinging-in of loose sheets.

e. Newspapers that cannot be sewn through the fold shall be

split as described. Due to the extremely small inner margin of
most newspapers, the binder is encouraged not split or mill
them in any manner that would increase the likelihood of
damaging the text or impeding use.

f. Titles, mid-spine variable information and call numbers shall

be printed horizontally, with no more than one hyphenation
per word. If horizontal arrangement is not possible, then the
title and mid-spine can be cast vertically and the call shall be
horizontal.

g. Stamping will be done in white foil, unless gold or black are

specifically requested.

h. Imprints and panel lines will be printed according to the

Library's direction.

i. Endpapers shall have extra reinforcement, as appropriate.

j. Rounding and backing are at the Binder’s discretion.

k. Trimming is at the Binder’s discretion (unless instructed

otherwise by the Library) once the leaf attachment is secure.

35
 Under no circumstances shall printed matter be trimmed
away.

X. Other Library Materials

1. Theses and Dissertations

Prices quoted for Theses and dissertations shall conform to the
following specifications:

a. Volumes conform to section Basic Specifications for

Monograph and Periodical Bindings and in all points of
ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78 unless otherwise specified by the
Library

b. Dimensions included in the base price for theses are 12.5" in

height and up to 2.5" in thickness.

c. Material will be bound as received.

d. Stubbing may be used to reinforce pages with photographs

e. The default buckram color will be identified by the individual

library or account. Material shall be F-Grade buckram.

f. Horizontal orientation is preferred for the author’s full name

and the title. The call number, if required by the department
or institution requesting the binding, must be oriented
horizontally on the spine or upper left hand corner of the
cover if the width is less than 5/8th inch. Stamping is included
in the price.

g. Some theses and dissertations will require a pocket or case for

graphs, charts, maps, videotapes, audiotapes, compact disks,
and computer diskettes.

2. Enclosures
Prices quoted for Enclosures shall conform to the following
specifications in all points unless otherwise specified by the Library:

a. Materials conform to all points of ANSI/NISO/LBI Z39.78

unless otherwise specified by the Library.

b. Custom made boxes include phase boxes, double-tray boxes,

and slip cases. Specifications are included in this RFP.

c. Prices shall include the cost and indicate whether prefers

shipping the items or just receiving measurements.

36
BINDERY HANDBOOK – QUALITY CONTROL AND INSPECTION

Rationale: The purpose of this section is to outline the quality control and inspection
routine for materials returned from the library bindery. Some of the errors or
irregularities should be returned to the bindery for correction. Others will be
minor errors. These should be noted, and the bindery should be informed of
the quantity and type of these errors.

I. Inspect the Unopened Volume

A. Spine Stamping: Spine Stamping is the lettering placed on the bound

volumes by the bindery. It is generally composed of white, black, or gold foil.

1. Is the spine stamped correctly, i.e., does it match the binding slip and the
bound contents?
2. Are the lines properly positioned? Are the letters evenly impressed and
crisp?

B. Covering Material: The covering material is the cloth or buckram on the

outside of the volume.

1. Is the covering material clean, i.e., free from dust, gluey fingerprints,
etc…?
2. Is the cover smoothly and completely adhered to both boards?

C. Joints: The joints are the grooves that run along the side of the spine.

1. Are the joints parallel to the spine?

2. Are they uniformly and adequately deep?

D. Rounding and Backing: Rounding and backing is the process by which

the binder forces the spine into a curved position and hammers the spine in
such a manner that it develops an almost mushroom shaped appearance.

1. Is the spine of the text block properly shaped at both the head and tail?
2. Do the boards fit correctly below the shoulders of the spine?
3. UIUC’s binding contract calls for the bindery to employ rounding and
backing only when appropriate to the type of binding. That being the
case, some volumes will be rounded and backed and other will be flat
backed. Illustrations of acceptable and unacceptable spines are below.

a. Lopsided b. Flat Backed c. Concave d. Rounded and Backed

37
II. Inspect the Opened Volume

A. Spine Lining: Open the volume to its approximate center and look down
the hollow of the spine, between the covering material and the text block.

1. Does the spine lining extend to within ½” of the head and tail of the
spine?
2. Is it smooth and completely adhered?
3. If the volume is heavy or thick, has an extra paper lining been adhered
over the cloth one?
4. If the volume was recased, was the spine well cleaned before relining?
5. It should be free of old adhesive and paper.

B. Endpapers: Open to the front and rear covers.

1. Are the endpapers smoothly and completely adhered to the boards?

2. Are they properly positioned so that the squared of the boards appear
uniformly wide?
3. Are the edges of the endpapers straight-cut and smooth?

C. Turn-ins: Open to the front and rear covers.

1. Are the turn-ins (the margins of cloth that wrap from the front of the
boards onto the inside) uniform, and approximately 5/8” wide?
2. Are the edges straight and smooth?

D. Spine Lining: Open to the front and rear covers.

1. Does the spine lining extend onto each board at least 1”?
2. Is it uniformly wide, head to tail, on each board?

E. Endsheets: Open to the front and rear covers.

1. Is the style of endsheet appropriate to the method of leaf attachment?

2. Have endsheets for recased volumes been sewn on through the fold?

F. Cover-to-Text Attachment: Open the volume between the endsheets and

the first and last pages of the text block.

1. For text blocks that have been double fan adhesive bound, is the
endsheet tipped on no more than ¼” onto the first leaf?
2. For text blocks that have been recased, is the gutter between endsheets
and the first leaf neat and free from the residue of old spine?

G. Text Block: Fan through the text block looking for the following:

1. Are the leaves securely attached?

38
 2. Are their edges free from adhesive that inhibits their opening?
3. Are the leaves in the correct order and facing the correct direction?
4. For oversewn volumes, does the sewing run into the print?

H. Openability: Open the volume and lay it on the table face up.

1. Does the volume open well and lay open when placed on a table? For
various reasons, this may not be possible. The paper may be still or it
may run perpendicular to the spine direction. However, a high
percentage of the volumes should have good openability.

III. Binding Slip

A. Inspect the binding slip and check for any special instructions. Ensure that
the instructions were carried out, including any special instructions about
method of leaf attachment, binding style, buckram colors, etc….

39
BINDERY HANDBOOK – MISTAKE, COSMETIC, OR STRUCTURAL PROBLEM?

Rationale: The purpose of this section is to give those inspecting library bound
materials a means of readily understanding the differences between some of
the problems that may occur in library binding. They are divided into three
categories: Mistakes, Cosmetic Problems, and Structural Problems.

I. Definitions

A. Mistakes: Errors that the librarian and the binder would readily agree
upon. Some can and should be corrected either by the binder or at the
bindery, others are not correctable and still others may not warrant the time
and expense of correction.

B. Cosmetic Problems: Errors that affect the appearance of the volume but
not its functionality or durability. They may signal a need for more careful
workmanship or quality checking at the bindery, but there is no need to
correct these problems.

C. Structural Problems: Errors that are serious. They are problems that have
damaged the text block or may damage it in the future, ones that have made
the volumes less durable than it should be, or ones that have made it more
difficult to use than is necessary. Some structural problems can be corrected,
some cannot.

II. Examples

A. Mistakes:

1. Spine lettering is incorrect.

2. Wrong text block matched with wrong case.
3. Covering material is not the color or type specified.
4. Parts of text or periodical issues are out of order or mis-arranged.
5. Library’s instructions not followed regarding leaf attachment methods or
other options (e.g., no trim, flush binding, covers in or out, placement of
replacement pages).
6. Wrong edge of text block bound.
7. Text block cased in upside down.

B. Cosmetic Problems:

1. Covering material, endpapers, or text block are dusty/dirty, or show

excess adhesive, debris, or bindery markings under pastedowns.
2. Flaws in covering material.
3. Text block nicked or burred by damaged guillotine blades or sloppy
hand-trimming.
4. Turn-ins are uneven in width, crooked, or not turned in smoothly.

40
 5. Covering material is “wrong” color or does not match previously-bound
materials.
6. Spine lining is crooked.
7. Spine lining extends beyond text block at head or tail.
8. Squares are unusually wide or narrow.
9. Edges of leaves stuck together by adhesive (usually seen at outer edges of
text block at head and tail).
10. Spine lettering crooked, positioned improperly, or of a less than optimal
size.
11. Endpapers torn due to excessive adhesive on leaves.
12. Endpapers not smoothly adhered to boards.

C. Structural Problems:

1. Leaf attachment method is inappropriate for the volume.

2. Sewing not done correctly or done well (e.g., too few stitches, broken
threads).
3. Adhesive not applied well on double-fan adhesive bound volumes –
especially head or tail; leaves may be loose as a result.
4. Spine of recased volume not cleaned adequately before application of
new spine lining.
5. Spine lining not smoothly and adequately adhered.
6. Spine lining on double fan adhesive bindings stops more than ¼” short
of the head and tail edges.
7. Spine lining on other bindings stops short more than ½” short of the
head and tail edges.
8. Spine lining extends onto the front and back boards less than one full
inch.
9. Spines of large or heavy items not reinforced with an additional layer of
material (either paper or extra spine lining cloth).
a. 1 ½” thick for sew through fold or recased items.
b. 2 ½” for all other volumes.
10. Endpapers are not attached properly, or as agreed upon for the particular
leaf attachment:
a. Recases: Endpapers shall be sewn onto the text block in a
manner compatible with the original sewing structure.
b. Sewn through fold: Endpapers shall be sewn onto the text block
as if the signatures were the outermost signatures.
c. DFA: Endpapers shall be adhesive bound with text block.
d. Oversewn: Endpapers shall be sewn onto the text block with
outermost leaves.
11. Board thickness inadequate for size and thickness of volume.
12. Text block cased in crookedly.
13. Spine not properly shaped.
14. Joints not parallel, evenly wide and deep, and firmly impressed.
15. Text block not flush with bottom of case, if the option was specified, or
if the volume was:
a. Over 3” thick.

41
 b. Exceedingly heavy.
16. Text along binding margin is invaded by adhesive, notching, or sewing.
17. Test, illustrations, or fold outs are trimmed or caught in binding.
18. Text obscured by adhesive that has flowed between pages.
19. Text is covered or pulled off by adhesive portion of binding slip.
20. Poor adhesion in joint/hinge area.
21. Spine of volume to be double-fan adhesive bound is not milled entirely
free of original adhesive or folds.
22. Are the edges straight and smooth?
23. Text trimmed.
24. Fold-outs bound in.

This document is based on “Binding Problems to Watch Out For: Mistakes, Cosmetic Problems, Structural
Problems” by Carol E. Eyler. It was produced for Mercer University.

42
BINDERY HANDBOOK – INSTRUCTIONS FOR DEPARTMENTS PREPARING THESES AND
DISSERTATIONS FOR BINDING

Rationale: The purpose of this section is to outline the steps necessary for preparing
theses and dissertations for library binding. The Library’s Bindery
Preparations Unit traditionally serves as a conduit for departments seeking
this type of service. However, it is imperative that materials are sent to the
binding unit properly prepared and packaged for shipping.

I. Definitions and Contact Information

A. Binder – Used interchangeably with the word Bindery, a Binder provides a

service to the University in the form of library binding. Generally, this
practice involves producing new bindings for loose serials and replacement
bindings for damaged books. Binders also bind theses and dissertations.
Currently, the University employs the services of:

1. The HF Group
1010 North Sycamore Street
North Manchester, IN 46962
T: 800-334-3628

B. Bindery Preparations Unit – Located in Room 44 of the Main Library

Building, the Bindery Preparations Unit coordinates the preparation of
library materials for library binding.

C. Department – A department, in this case, is any unit outside the Library

system that wishes to bind materials commercially. Payment and labor is
provided by the department. The Bindery Preparations Unit serves as a
shipping and receiving point and informational resource for the department.

II. Required Materials

A. Theses and/or Dissertations – Available from your students.

B. Folders – Manila or accordion-style folders. One per thesis or dissertation to

be bound.

C. Rubber Bands– Used to secure: (a) loose items into folders, or (b) multiple
copies of the same thesis or dissertation together.

D. Boxes – Containers with lids that close and will remain secure. Xerox boxes,
etc… are superb examples of the containers to use.

E. Binding Kit – Requested directly from the Binder, the Binding Kit contains
most of the basics that a department needs to do its binding work: Buckram
Color Guide, Binding Tickets, Instructions for Completing Binding Slips, a

43
 blank Shipping Record, Instructions for Binding Periodicals, and Instructions
for Preparing the Shipment.

F. Binding Tickets – Paper binding tickets used to give the bindery

instructions about the pieces to be bound. One must be completed for each
title. They are available in the Binding Kit.

G. Shipping Record – Blank shipping records are available from the Bindery.
They indicate what, in terms of quantity of boxes and pieces to be bound, is
being sent. They are available in the Binding Kit. The department must
record a valid account number for billing and complete contact information for
the department (including the name of a contact person) on the shipping
record.

H. Shipping Labels – Blank shipping labels are available from the Bindery.
They are used to indicate what department the materials belong to and what
type of binding (e.g., thesis) is being sent. They are available from the
Bindery Preparations Unit.

III. Preparing Theses and Dissertations for Binding

A. Request a Binding Kit from the Bindery using the contact information above.
When requesting the kit, specify how many pieces you are binding so that the
Binder can send enough Binding Tickets.

B. Once you are ready to begin, select the unit that is to be bound. This unit
should be no thicker than 2 – 2.5” (if thicker, you will need to bind as
volumes one and two).

C. Make sure that the piece is complete and that all the pages are in the correct
order.

D. Place the item into a folder and secure with a rubber band.

E. Using a typewriter, complete the binding ticket following the Bindery’s

instructions in the Binding Kit.

1. Under the section labeled Copy, list the number of pieces to be bound
with that title, i.e., if you are binding two duplicate copies of that
particular title

F. Make a copy of the binding slip and keep for your records. This will tell you
if errors in the spine stamping, etc… resulted from mistakes at the Bindery
or within your unit.

G. Secure the completed binding slip with the item to be bound.

44
 1. As noted in section III.E. above, one slip may be completed for
multiple copies of the same title. These pieces should all be secured
together after being secured into their individual folders. Failure to secure
each individual copy may result in pages getting mixed up in transit.

H. Keep a tally of how many pieces you are binding.

I. Place the pieces into a box. Multiple titles may be placed into the same box
as long as: (a) they are properly secured, and (b) the binding slips are properly
secured to the pieces.

J. Repeat above steps as necessary.

K. Complete a Shipping Record. Make a copy and keep for your records.

L. Fill out the Shipping Labels. One is required for each box. Include return
shipping/billing address, the work Thesis in the section labeled “Binding
Type”, and a contact name.

M. Deliver the materials to the Bindery Preparations Unit in the Main Library.
They may be contacted by calling 333-1997. If you have any questions about
preparing your materials, contact the Bindery Preparations Unit before
delivering the material to the Library. If corrections are required, your unit
will have to come to the Library to complete them prior to shipping.

N. Once materials are returned to the Library, the Bindery Preparations Unit
will contact the department to notify a pick-up is required.

O. When unpacking materials, inspect the pieces against the Binding Ticket to
ensure that the spine information is correct. Inspect the volumes to ensure
that there are no visible physical errors in the binding , i.e., bound upside
down or backwards, etc….

45
 Guidelines for Choosing Stabilizing Enclosures for Rare Book Room Materials

Name Description Special Best Used For Miscellaneous

Requirements Notes

Double Wall, A Clamshell is a Require  Show pieces. Due to their

Drop-spine Box box made with specification of  Items that passive closing
(a.k.a., clamshell) two trays that fit cloth type and require mechanism,
into one another. color. For protection due commercially
These trays are buckram seen the to regular produced
lined with either bindery’s handling, clamshells are not
conservation- buckram color access, or very appropriate
quality paper or guide. For transport. for warped
cloth. The outer canapetta, you  Items that will vellum bindings.
trays are covered may choose be loaned.
with F-grade between  Intended as a Can be produced
buckram, grey burgandy, blue, or permanent by the Bindery or
linen cloth, or an unbleached, enclosure, so in-house.
canapetta. natural color. not for items
that will
receive
conservation
treatment.
Phase Box Typically made of None  Vellum bound The active closing
blue-grey barrier books. mechanism
board, these  Books at least makes a phase
boxes feature 1.5” thick and box perfect for
either a button-tie not meeting keeping vellum-
or a Velcro requirements bound items from
fastener. for other, warping in
lightweight inappropriate
enclosures. environmental
 Items that will conditions.
likely receive
conservation Produced in-
treatment in house or by the
the future. bindery.
StorPak (a.k.a., Typically Smallest:  Weak, 19th These boxes
Pizza Box) constructed of e- 101.6mm x Century require some
flute, corrugated 76.2mm x 20mm publisher’s assembly as they
board or other (4" x 3" x 3/4" ) cloth bindings are shipped from
lightweight  Volumes that the vendor flat.
boards, the only need a
construction of Largest: 609.6mm little bit of They are only
these boxes x 381mm x support. available from the
resembles that of 101.6mm ( 24" x  Volumes that vendor.
a pizza box. 15" x 4") could
Inexpensive and otherwise go We recommend a
light-weight, these into a phase minimum
are good for box but are thickness of ¾”.
general “standard” Below that, see

46
 collections sized. “Tux Box”
maintenance  Small volumes below.
that need
some
protection due
to size.
 Items that will
likely receive
conservation
treatment in
the future.
Portfolio A Portfolio is a Require  Collections of Can be produced
wrap-around style specification of loose material, by the Bindery or
enclosure cloth type and such as galley in-house. Please
comprising a color. For proofs, consult with
front and back buckram seen the unbound Preservation and
cover with a bindery’s materials, and Conservation
multi-flap buckram color other prior to ordering.
enclosure guide. For collections of
attached to the canapetta, you loose,
back cover. The may choose published
flaps of the between material.
enclosure burgandy, blue, or  Intended as a
completely cover an unbleached, permanent
the contents. natural color. enclosure, so
not for items
that will
receive
conservation
treatment.
Four Flap A four flap Under 3/4” thick.  Intended for Commercially
resembles a For specifics, see pamphlet-like produced and
pamphlet binder the Conservation materials. procured through
in construction. lab. Preservation and
However, the Conservation.
Tux Box A lightweight Under ¾” thick. Thin, lightweight Commercially
folding enclosure Not for items that volumes. produced and
for small items are oversized. procured through
(i.e., under ¾” Preservation and
thick and not Conservation.
large enough to
require a
portfolio).

47
BINDERY HANDBOOK – PROCESSING BINDING RETURNS

Rationale: This section outlines how the Bindery Preparations Unit processes materials
returned from the bindery before sending them to unit libraries.

I. Retrieving Bound Materials

A. Selecting Boxes: The materials returned from the bindery are sorted
into two broad classes based upon ownership and many sub-classes based
upon the type of material.

1. Ownership: The Bindery Preparations Unit serves as the shipping

point for units on campus that seek to employ our binder’s services.
Inspect the box label. Any materials without the name of the Bindery
Preparations Unit’s supervisor and with the name of another unit on
campus does not belong to the Library. These boxes should be
segregated and brought to the supervisor’s attention.
2. Type of Material: The Bindery Preparations Unit prioritizes the
processing of bindery returns. This priority list is as follows:
 Items labeled “Hand-Carry.” Bring these to the supervisor’s attention
immediately. They generally include rush items, materials with special
instructions, or other special order materials.
 Serials – these will come labeled as “Custom” or “Standard”
magazines or periodicals.
 Mylar Binding – as new monographs, these receive priority over
other monographs.
 Monographs – these may include a number of labels including
“Recase”, “Rebind”, “Economy”, etc….
 Theses and Dissertations.

B. Unpacking Boxes: Using a dolly or cart, move boxes closer to the

unpacking space before proceeding. Please use care in lifting boxes as they
frequently weight upwards of fifty pounds.

1. Opening the Cartons: Cartons may be opened with a box knife;

however, care should be taken to ensure that the knife does not cut into
the books.
2. Sorting: Materials should be unpacked and sorted according to the
size of their covers.
3. Streamers: Each item should receive a streamer indicating where
it should be sent. Using this streamer, items should then be sorted by
location. Items for three libraries do not receive streamers:
 STX – Items being sent to the Stacks do not receive a streamer.
They should be sorted and processed as follows before being placed
onto a Stacks cart for retrieval.

48
  DOC – Items processed for Government Documents do not receive
a streamer. They should be sorted and processed as follows before
being put onto a labeled shelf for retrieval.
 STD – Items processed for Government Document’s Stacks do not
receive a streamer. They should be sorted and processed as follows
before being placed onto a labeled shelf for retrieval.

C. Marking: Marking helps the library maintain access to its collections by

discouraging theft. Marking consists of three steps: property stamping,
location stamping, and security stripping the piece.

1. Property Stamping: Property stamps identify a physical piece as

being a part of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s
collection. All items shall receive a property stamp on the top and
bottom edge of their text block.
2. Location Stamping: Location stamps identify the intended
location of a physical piece within the Library’s collection. All items shall
receive a location stamp on the inside of their front cover (their front
paste-down).
3. Security Stripping: All items processed receive a security strip.
Instructions for security stripping materials are available in the section
entitled Bindery Handbook – Security Stripping.

D. Inspection: All materials processed as binding returns shall be

inspected as outlined in the following two sections of this document: Bindery
Handbook – QC and Inspection and Bindery Handbook – Mistakes, Cosmetic and
Structural Problems.

49
BINDERY HANDBOOK – RUSH SERVICES FOR LIBRARY BINDING

Rationale: This section of the Bindery handbook details the rush services that are
available for library binding.

I. Normal Rush Delivery

A. As has always been the case, any items that are sent to Bindery Preparations
that are marked as "Rush" are packed separately and returned with our
regular shipment marked "hand-carry." This means that they will be the first
items to be unpacked, processed, and returned.

B. For items to be properly processed, there are a couple issues that must be
considered before sending items for processing.

1. First, binding shipments are sent every other week. In the early
morning hours the day before each shipment, the Binder
Preparations Unit completes a closing. At this point, no other items
can be added to that out-going binding shipment. This means that for
an item to be processed and added to shipment X, it must be
received in the Bindery Preparations Unit a minimum of two days
before that shipment is picked up by the bindery. A schedule of pick-
up dates can be obtained from the Bindery Preparations Unit.

2. The Library's common practice for sending items anywhere for

"Rush" processing is that they be accompanied by a pink streamer.
Unfortunately, Bindery Preparations occasionally receives an item
marked "Rush" at the bottom of the normal binding streamers (i.e.,
the space inside the book) without any accompanying pink streamer.
Occasionally, this hidden instruction has been missed. To ensure that
your item is actually processed as a rush item, please do one of the
following (1) include the eye-catching pink streamer with the normal
binding streamers, or (2) hand carry the item down and delivery it.

II. Expedited Service

A. As we all know, extenuating circumstances sometimes apply. On rare

occasions, we can ask the Bindery to UPS/Fed Ex items back to us as they
are completed. Generally, the items still need to be processed to go out with a
normal shipment, but they will be returned as they are completed. Please use
this option exceedingly judiciously as this option costs the Library the price of
the binding (between $5.00 and $35.00), plus one or more hours of special
handling ($25.00/hour), plus the cost of overnight delivery. This option is
best employed if your book falls apart mid-semester and needs to be made
available ASAP.

50