Book Repair
Only staff members that have been trained in the various repair techniques should be assigned to repair materials. Damaged items are repaired to lengthen the shelf life, to provide continued access to an item if it is no longer in print, and to save money for other items by not having to reorder the damaged item.
We only repair SMU items. Never attempt to repair an item belonging to another institution.
If an item is deemed beyond repair, three options are available: Order a replacement copy, send the item for commercial binding, or discard the item. Each of these options is discussed at the end of this section.
So, how do you know when to attempt to repair an item rather than having it replaced, rebound, or discarded? Ask yourself these questions:
If you have chosen to repair the item, follow the steps outlined below.
See sub menus for detailed information on:
Getting Started
Most Common Repairs
If you have decided to replace, bind or discard the item, see the sub menu below.
Options Other Than Repairing
Back to Stacks Maintenance
We only repair SMU items. Never attempt to repair an item belonging to another institution.
If an item is deemed beyond repair, three options are available: Order a replacement copy, send the item for commercial binding, or discard the item. Each of these options is discussed at the end of this section.
So, how do you know when to attempt to repair an item rather than having it replaced, rebound, or discarded? Ask yourself these questions:
- How bad are the damages?
- Is the damaged item worth keeping? Meaning, is it an important part of our collection?
- Are there other copies available in our collection?
- If the item is worth keeping, is it better just to replace it? Is the item even still in print?
- Is a patron, Reserves, or another library waiting for the item?
- Should the item be in Special Collections, therefore not glued and taped but placed in a special box?
If you have chosen to repair the item, follow the steps outlined below.
See sub menus for detailed information on:
Getting Started
Most Common Repairs
If you have decided to replace, bind or discard the item, see the sub menu below.
Options Other Than Repairing
Back to Stacks Maintenance