How to Fix a Paperback That Is Falling Apart

Paperback books are ideal for easy reading. They are lightweight and can be stashed in purses and bags, and they don't add much weight to school bags or backpacks. Yet the very nature of such books leaves them open to damage, because there is no hardback cover to protect the pages. Since paperbacks are so easy to travel with, they often receive more damage than heavy hardback books that remain in the home. Repair your favorite paperbacks using glue and tape especially designed for fixing books.

Acid-free glue
Book-binding tape

Instructions

- 1
  Gently remove the cover if it is falling off the rest of the book. Apply acid-free glue up and down the book's spine, and carefully place the cover back on the book. Allow to dry before continuing with repairs.
- 2
  Use clear bookbinding tape on the inside of the book cover, front and back, to repair a cover that is torn or crumbling. Place each piece of tape next to one another, using as much tape as needed. Use extra tape around the inside edges of the cover if necessary, as this is where many paperback covers sustain the most damage.
- 3
  Carefully remove any blank pages in the front or back that are too ripped to repair.
- 4
  Apply bookbinding tape to any pages in the front or back of the book that can be repaired for additional reinforcement.
- 5
  Repair pages that are falling out by carefully lifting the page and applying a thin layer of glue to the inner spine. Gently place the page back among the other pages and allow to dry before making similar repairs.

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