I have a hardcover book and a section of pages is falling out. How can I repair it?

Question

I know that regular glue generally doesn't work, and tape isn't strong enough to hold it. It's a good chunk of pages that are coming out in one big section. Is there a special type of glue for book bindings? Is there anything else I can use?

Answer 1

The easiest way is to clamp the loose pages together tightly and spread a thin film of PVA glue (like Elmer's) on the edge of the block of pages and another thin film on the inside of the binding where the pages had been. Let them dry only slightly until tacky then replace the pages and close the book. Lay the book on its side and place a brick against the outside of the spine. make sure the pages are aligned properly and push the brick against the spine while placing the outside edge of the pages against a wall or other stationary object. The object is to keep the glued edges pressed tightly together overnight so the glue can dry. An acid-free glue is recommended.

Answer 2

It rather depends on the type of book.

If it is a traditional, "signature" book you made need either to tighten the sewing, or maybe even re-sew the signature. Use a heavy linen type thread and try to keep everything snug (hard to do without a book-press)

If the pages aren't sewn, or after you have tightened and re sewn the signature, you can use a regular "white" glue to tip the pages back in. You need enough to hold the pages (or signature) in place without oozing up between the rest of the pages. There's no real way to tell you how much is enough, I'm afraid.

After you have glued, and slid the pages back into position, close the book and set it aside to dry. It's helpful to place a heavy weight on the upper cover, but not 100% necessary unless the missing pages are close to the upper cover.

Rest the book a good 24 hours for the glue to set fully. After that it should hold, provided you don't get too rough with it.

Answer 3

Here is a link to a website from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, showing how they do book repairs. I like this link because of all the pictures. While you might not have all of the same equipment, it will give you some ideas about how to go about repairing a book. Check out vise gluing, inserting loose pages, stubbing in pages. The second link is to a library supply site, showing a type of glue used in book repair. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

Consider taking it to your local public library. They might be willing to repair it for you.