Repairing Spine Damage
Damage to the spines of books and other items is a common occurrence in the Library.
The spines may only be partially damaged like the example on the right, or they may be completely damaged. Fortunately, you can cut the repair tape to whatever length you require.
Cut a piece of tape (cloth tape for most items, but clear book tape for items with cardboard-like covers) about 4cm longer than the will cover the damage. Choose the width of the tape to overlap the spine by at least a couple of centimetres.
Without removing the plastic backing on the tape, fit the repair patch on the outside of the book and check to see that the fit is correct. The patch should extend at least 2cm above the spine (or each end if covering the whole spine).
Without removing the plastic backing on the tape, fit the repair patch on the outside of the book and check to see that the fit is correct. The patch should extend at least 2cm above the spine (or each end if covering the whole spine).
Remove the plastic backing of the tape, and use the long edge of a folder to work the patch into both cover joints.
When tape is positioned correctly, lay the book on the table so that the spine is flat against the table.
With a scalpel, create two slits on the flap at the hinges. Fold the tape along the top of the book cover and the spine turn-in.
When you are finished, set the item on the worktable with the repaired end of the spine resting on the table. The edge of the new spine should be level, so it rests flat and even against the table.
If you are repairing more items in this manner, set the item aside for a new label, and relabel a batch of items at one time.
After the repairs are complete, remember to change the status of the item back to ‘In Library’ as outlined in 'Getting Started'.
Back to Stacks Maintenance
With a scalpel, create two slits on the flap at the hinges. Fold the tape along the top of the book cover and the spine turn-in.
When you are finished, set the item on the worktable with the repaired end of the spine resting on the table. The edge of the new spine should be level, so it rests flat and even against the table.
If you are repairing more items in this manner, set the item aside for a new label, and relabel a batch of items at one time.
After the repairs are complete, remember to change the status of the item back to ‘In Library’ as outlined in 'Getting Started'.
Back to Stacks Maintenance