Books will speak plain : a handbook for identifying and describing historical bindings / Julia Miller.

Ann Arbor, Mich. : Legacy Press, 2010.

xv, 510 pages, 64 unnumbered pages of plates : illustrations (some color) ; 26 cm + 1 DVD-ROM (color ; 4 3/4 in.)

Introduction : the purpose of this handbook -- The early history of the codex -- The medieval manuscript book and beyond -- 1450 to 1800 : the book changes radically -- The book from 1800 to 1900 -- Identifying binding materials and applications -- Describing historical bindings--a template for action -- The task ahead and conclusion -- Appendixes 1. Historical bindings--structure and style hierarchy -- 2. Sample survey suggestions and description case studies -- 3. Stacks maintenance and physical condition assessment guidelines.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [480]-496) and index.