Backstrips of books serve an integral role: they identify titles and authors easily on shelves while making books easy to locate in collection areas.
Library science uses the term “backstrap” to refer to all parts of a book’s spine that connect it to its cover, including any glue used during binding. Backstrips protect books against wear and tear while being visible when shelved on shelves.
There are various forms of backstrips. Sewn backstrips can be created by stitching the spine of a book to its cover; these sewn backstrips tend to be solid and durable and are commonly found on hardcover books. There are also glued backstrips, which may not be as solid or costly as sewn versions yet can provide just as strong of protection if need be.
Backstrips may be plain or decorated. Adorned back strips generally feature the book title and author printed directly onto them; decorated ones might also contain images, patterns, or designs.
Function
A backstrip’s primary function is to help identify books quickly and make them easy to locate on shelves by making their spine visible when shelved.
“Backstrip” is an abbreviation used in library science for “backstrap.”
Books feature what’s known as a backstrap on their spine to keep their pages together and to be visible when placed on shelves. A backstrap helps hold these pages together to form one unit readers can enjoy reading.
Backstrips can also be used to repair damaged books. If the spine of a book becomes compromised, an adhesive backstrip may help restore and revive it.
Overall, the backstrip of a book is an integral component, helping keep pages together and repair damage to bindings. Furthermore, decorative backstrips make books stand out on shelves.