We have created a small encyclopedic reference below of some interesting facts and specs about books you may not know.

FORMATS

Hardcover: A hardcover book is bound with a sturdy cover made of cardboard or cloth that is covered with paper or other materials. Hardcover books are typically more durable and long-lasting than paperback books.


Paperback: A paperback book has a flexible cover made of thin paper or cardstock. Paperback books are generally less expensive than hardcovers and are easier to carry around.


Mass-market paperback: A mass-market paperback is a smaller format paperback that is typically sold in mass quantities in bookstores, airports, and other retail locations. These books are generally inexpensive and easy to carry, making them popular for travel or commuting.


Trade paperback: A trade paperback is a larger format paperback that is often used for books that are not intended for mass-market sales. Trade paperbacks are usually printed on higher quality paper and have a higher price point than mass-market paperbacks.


Board book: A board book is a type of book designed for young children that has thick cardboard pages that can withstand rough handling. Board books are often brightly illustrated and have simple text.


E-book: An e-book is a digital book that can be read on a computer, tablet, e-reader, or smartphone. E-books are often less expensive than print books and can be downloaded instantly.


Audiobook: An audiobook is a book that is read aloud and recorded in audio format. Audiobooks can be listened to on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and dedicated audiobook players.


Graphic novel: A graphic novel is a book that combines text and illustrations to tell a story. Graphic novels can be fiction or non-fiction and are often popular with readers of all ages.


Comic book: A comic book is a magazine or book that tells a story using sequential art and text. Comic books are often serialized and are popular with readers of all ages.


Pop-up book: A pop-up book is a book that has three-dimensional illustrations that pop up when the pages are opened. Pop-up books are often used to create interactive reading experiences for children.


Braille book: A Braille book is a book that is printed in Braille, a tactile writing system used by people who are blind or visually impaired.


Large print book: A large print book is a book that is printed with larger text than a standard book. Large print books are often used by people with visual impairments or reading difficulties.

BINDINGS

Perfect binding: Perfect binding is a type of binding commonly used for softcover or paperback books. The pages are glued together at the spine and then attached to a cover made of thicker paper or cardstock.


Saddle-stitch binding: Saddle-stitch binding is a type of binding commonly used for booklets, magazines, or other smaller publications. The pages are folded in half and then stapled together at the center fold.


Case binding: Case binding is a type of binding commonly used for hardcover books. The pages are sewn together in small sections, then glued to the spine of a cover made of cardboard or other stiff material, and covered with cloth, leather or paper.


Smyth-sewn binding: Smyth-sewn binding is a type of binding commonly used for high-quality hardcover books, such as textbooks or coffee table books. The pages are sewn together in small sections and then attached to a cover made of stiff material.


Spiral binding: Spiral binding is a type of binding commonly used for notebooks, calendars, or other small publications. The pages are punched with holes along one edge, and a plastic or metal coil is threaded through the holes to hold the pages together.


Wire-o binding: Wire-o binding is a type of binding similar to spiral binding, but uses a metal wire instead of a plastic coil. The wire is threaded through holes punched along one edge of the pages.


Japanese stab binding: Japanese stab binding is a type of binding commonly used for art books, journals, or other small publications. The pages are stacked together and sewn through the spine using a decorative binding stitch.


Coptic binding: Coptic binding is a type of binding commonly used for handmade books or journals. The pages are sewn together in small sections, then attached to a cover made of stiff material, with a decorative exposed spine.

PAPER

Uncoated paper: Uncoated paper is paper that has not been coated with any surface treatment. It has a more natural, tactile feel and can be used for a variety of book types, such as novels, memoirs, and literary works.


Coated paper: Coated paper is paper that has been coated with a surface treatment, such as clay or latex. This treatment gives the paper a smooth, glossy finish and is often used for high-quality books, such as art books and photography books.


Gloss paper: Gloss paper is a type of coated paper that has a high sheen and reflectivity. It is often used for magazines, catalogs, and other promotional materials.


Matte paper: Matte paper is a type of coated paper that has a non-glossy, flat finish. It is often used for textbooks, manuals, and other technical publications.


Textured paper: Textured paper has a unique surface texture, such as linen, felt, or laid, which can give books a distinct look and feel. It is often used for specialty books, such as journals or art books.


Cardstock: Cardstock is a heavier weight paper, often used for book covers, dividers, and other inserts. It is available in a variety of weights and textures, and can be coated or uncoated.


Recycled paper: Recycled paper is paper made from recycled materials, such as post-consumer waste or industrial scraps. It is often used for books that prioritize sustainability, such as environmentally conscious or educational books.


Specialty papers: Specialty papers include a range of papers that are designed for specific purposes, such as tracing paper, vellum, or parchment. These papers can be used for book inserts, illustrations, or other specialized applications.

PRINTING

Letterpress: Letterpress is a traditional printing method that involves pressing inked metal or wooden type onto paper. It creates a distinct, tactile texture and is often used for specialty books and limited edition prints.


Offset printing: Offset printing is a modern printing method that involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber blanket, which then transfers the ink to paper. It is a high-speed printing process and is often used for mass-produced books and publications.


Digital printing: Digital printing is a newer printing method that involves printing directly from digital files using a laser or inkjet printer. It is a fast and cost-effective printing process and is often used for short-run books, print-on-demand books, and self-published books.


Screen printing: Screen printing is a printing method that involves pressing ink through a mesh screen onto paper. It creates a bold, graphic effect and is often used for art books, graphic novels, and illustrated books.


Gravure printing: Gravure printing is a printing method that involves engraving an image onto a cylinder, which is then used to transfer ink to paper. It is a high-quality printing process and is often used for high-end magazines and art books.