Restoration & REpair FAQs

Book Restoration, Repair, & Appraisals

Frequently Asked Questions

There are a number of questions that we are frequently asked by those looking for someone to do a book repair or restoration. We hope that these answers are helpful to you. 

Estimates

Does CBBAG give estimates of the cost of repair? 

CBBAG will not estimate cost but will refer to you to a list of reputable book restorers. Each restorer will need to see the book to estimate cost of repair. It is possible that they will give you a very general estimate over the phone or e-mail from a description of the work required, but it is unlikely that you will be able to correctly assess or describe the condition and the repairs needed. However, it is impossible to give a firm estimate of costs without seeing the book in order to gauge the problems and the time required to restore it. No binder will give a price sight unseen, nor will any one binder's price commit others to that estimate.

Localities

Are there bookbinders, restorers, or conservators in all localities in Canada? 

There are restorers/conservators only in a few localities in Canada. CBBAG is not an association of accredited members and a reference does not constitute a guarantee of satisfaction. You are free to ask for references concerning previous work done or to ask to see samples or photographs of the work of the binder. An additional reference is the Canadian Association of Professional Conservators, though, again, this does not does not constitute a guarantee of satisfaction on CBBAG's part.

Appraisal

Does CBBAG do appraisals of books? 

For an evaluation of your book you would have to go to an antiquarian book dealer, who will also need to see the book to give you an accurate estimate of its value. Antiquarian dealers can be searched for online and there are antiquarian dealers' associations. The chances are that your book does not have a very high cash value unless it is a special edition, an association copy, a first edition (not all by any means), has important errata, is very early (17th century or earlier), etc. However, none of these guarantee high value. There are reasons for high value which are known only to antiquarian dealers and collectors. 

Restoring & Value

Will restoring my book increase its value? 

If you want to repair or restore the book only to increase its cash value you are probably not wise to do this. If you care about the book because of its beauty, its sentimental value, it's family history, or if you want to be able to use it without further damage, then you are probably wise to restore it. An important book should be kept in as close to its original state as possible and may even lose value if it is rebound or restored extensively.

Historical Material

Does CBBAG collect family historical material?

CBBAG does not collect archival material other than that which relates to CBBAG history.  Most city and provincial archives are very interested in acquiring (mostly by donation) historical materials relating to local history, early families in any ethnic community, business archives, military histories, and much other material. Ephemera such as advertising broadsides, theatre tickets, early printed material, menus, and much else may be of great value to them.

Find a Bookbinder

To find an experienced bookbinder:  
- e-mail cbbag@cbbag.ca; please include where you live to see if CBBAG can recommend someone in your area

- call your local library  
- call your local museum  
- call your local archives

As stated previously, a reference does not constitute a guarantee of satisfaction. You are free to ask for references concerning previous work done or to ask to see samples or photographs of the work of the binder. An additional reference is the Canadian Association of Professional Conservators, though, again, this does not does not constitute a guarantee of satisfaction on CBBAG's part.