A book’s spine is the center of the cover, the edge where the pages are bound. Perfect binding involves milling the spine edge of the pages to create notches. The spine provides the hinge action that allows the book’s cover and pages to open and close.
The phrase “spine of a book” is derived from medieval parchment made from animal skin that would be folded along the center where the animal’s spine shadow was visible. The spine usually faces outward when a book is placed on a shelf.
The narrow, bound edge of a book holds the pages together. It adds rigidity so the book can stand upright and provides a stable base for the cover and pages to open. The spine width varies based on page count. Its position on the cover can shift slightly when printing.
Repairing a Book Spine
Use glue and a knitting needle when fixing a spine.
- Start by opening InDesign and navigating to File > New > New Document.
- To repair a book spine, open the covers fully.
- Use glue and a knitting needle to reattach loose pages.
- Let dry before closing.
Storage and Maintenance
Stack books next to shelves using the cases as support if out of shelf space. The stack of pages bound at one end is the text block. The binding, board covers and pages work well together.
Historically, spines were the center of folded parchment, leaving the animal’s spine shadow visible. Modern spines only need the title, author, and publisher logo. Decorative headbands and tailbands protect the spine’s edges based on old aesthetics.
The joints between the cover and spine are often reinforced so books open comfortably and withstand time. The spine is crucial – it holds the book together.