The word “limp” has several meanings, but in the publishing world, it refers to a book that is not perfectly square. The corners of the book’s spine are rounded, and the pages tend to fan out slightly. A limp book is still perfectly readable, but it doesn’t have the crisp, sharp look of a brand-new, perfectly square book.
Limp as a term is most often used in the publishing industry to describe a book that is not bound in the traditional way with a hardcover or perfect binding. A limp book usually has a paper or cardstock cover and pages that are glued or stitched together. This type of binding is often used for books that are not meant to be read cover to cover, such as journals, sketchbooks, or certain types of non-fiction where only certain sections are meant to be read. While a limp book is not as durable as a hardcover, it is often cheaper to produce and can be more easily customized with different cover materials and printing techniques.
Limp as a term has two distinct meanings in the book and publishing world. The first and most common usage refers to a type of binding where the spine of the book is glued to the cover, as opposed to being stitched or stapled. This type of binding is often seen in mass-market paperbacks and other inexpensive books. The second usage of the term limp refers to a book that has had its cover removed, usually in order to be rebound.
Limp is an important factor in book and publishing because it allows for a book to be handled without damaging its spine. A damaged spine can make a book unreadable, so limp is essential for keeping books in good condition. In addition, limp can make a book more comfortable to hold for extended periods of time, which is important for readers who want to enjoy their book without having to put it down frequently.