WHEN TO REPLACE
Will it be cheaper to mend a book and, when its short life is done, withdraw and replace with a new copy?
YES, when the original cost is less than rebinding.
Note—In the decision to replace, the labor of accessioning and withdrawal must always be taken into account.
The fresh, clean copies of the "easy books" and other good, inexpensive juvenile books are to be preferred to rebound copies. If the original binding is so poor that a second copy would shortly be in the same condition as the first, it is then advisable to send the book promptly to the bindery for recasing, preferably before circulating.
Greater durability is thus insured. If the book has an attractive original cover it is preserved and the value of the book enhanced thereby.
YES, when the paper is of such poor quality that the leaves break away from the stitching.
YES, when the book is extremely soiled; replace, even if it costs more than rebinding.
YES, when a new edition, or better books on the same subject have been published.
In replacing fiction, inexpensive editions are available for many popular titles in the Grosset & Dunlap edition, Burt Home Library, Everyman's Library, etc.
Some inexpensive editions rebind and wear as well as the first editions. Others because of narrow margins or quality of paper do not pay to rebind. A little observation and experience will soon prove what titles can be rebound to advantage.