There's this antique herbalism book from 1889 that I've been eying up and I managed to find a copy.
However, it is sadly in poor condition with the spine practically falling apart and some pages loose.
The pages however look to be in good condition.
I have the skills, knowledge and tools to rebind it but I'd have to take the entire book apart, resew it and possibly even make a new cover for it.
I was going to rebind it using some fresh book board or wooden boards and some high quality black leather that I have for such special projects.
It also looks like it's had a bit of repair before too.
I know that doing this will devalue the book but because of its poor condition, I think that it will give it a new life.
How do you all feel about doing such a thing to such an old book?
Would you leave it as is, see if someone can do a full restore bringing it back to original condition or do a full rebind knowing that it won't be as valuable any more?
I'd like to hear your thoughts on the matter.
by TheRoamingWizard
3 Comments
I would look at the monetary value of the book first, and see if it’s somewhat rare. If so, might be a good idea to invest in letting a professional do it or at least getting a price range.
If not or it’s something that’s widely available, then probably just do it yourself. Especially if it’s something you mean to keep for yourself. What book is it by the way?
seems like a worthwhile endeavor. also, while you’re in the process and have the pages unbound. consider digitizing it
edit: meant to say, I’d go for a rebind. to me the value of a book lays in its usability
If rebinding the book is the only way to preserve what is otherwise relatively rare, then surely rebinding it is the best solution, particularly if the cover itself doesn’t have inherent value (I.e. it’s not a Medieval illumination or signed by Jane Austen). I’m sure the Victorians would have done the same. I speak as someone who was gifted a family heirloom book that had to be rebound or would have otherwise been unreadable!