Remove book slip, having first compared its number with the number on the book pocket. This book slip is stamped with the word Bindery and with the date, and then is filed with other similar slips, all being kept in groups in accordance with the kinds of binding the books are to receive. The slips for the books sent each month are also put together.
On the title page of the book underline with light pencil marks such words as are to be gilded on the back. Make the title for the back as short as it can be made without loss of identity. If the name on the title page is a pseudonym, write the author’s correct name beside it in small letters.
Most books are sent in groups with a general note of instruction as to the binding of the whole group. For example, a hundred books may be sent in one lot with a note saying, “Bind in pigskin in the usual style.”
When special bindings are required, which call for special instructions, tip slightly in the front of the book, usually on the title page, a slip of yellow paper 3×5 inches. Bright yellow is chosen because it is easily distinguished from the white paper of the book, even at night, and yet writing on it is quite legible. On this slip write the call number of the book, the special style of binding wanted and other remarks when needed, such as the following:
Rush. If the book is to be returned in haste.
See sample. When book is one of two or more volumes and a special style of binding is to be carried out through the whole set.
Do not trim at all. When the book is of some special character and it is desired to preserve all the paper.
When books come back from the bindery stamp the date of their return on the lower left corner of the back cover immediately on their receipt. Add to this date the name of the binder if the library employs more than one firm.
This date makes it possible to tell how bindings wear, how many years they last, etc.
Note the style of binding of each book and look for its book slip among the other slips for books of this style.