Félkönyvek

Félkönyvek, a Hungarian term literally translating to "half-books," refers to a specific category of unbound or partially bound printed materials. These are not complete books in the traditional sense, lacking a full binding or cover. Historically, félkönyvek were often created for practical reasons, such as to serve as temporary bindings for manuscripts, to be later incorporated into a larger, bound volume. They could also represent works in progress, proofs, or pamphlets intended for limited distribution and lacking the durability of a fully bound publication.

The nature of félkönyvek varied greatly. Some might consist of a few printed sheets stapled or stitched together, while others could have a simple paper cover or wrap. The term is not strictly defined and can encompass a range of formats that fall short of a complete, bound book. In contemporary contexts, the term might occasionally be used informally for publications that are unusually thin or lack a traditional binding, though its primary historical significance lies in its connection to the printing and bookbinding practices of the past. The creation and use of félkönyvek reflect the evolving methods of disseminating and preserving written and printed works before the widespread standardization of bookbinding.