hardcover

A hardcover, or hardback, is a book bound with rigid protective covers. The case consists of rigid boards, typically made from cardboard, that are covered with cloth, leather, paper, or other materials. The pages are usually attached to the cover by endpapers and a binding that may be sewn or glued, creating a durable unit.

A distinguishing feature is the protective dust jacket that often accompanies hardcover editions. The jacket is a separate paper cover wrapped around the boards and can bear the title, author, and artwork. Some editions use a printed cover directly on the boards instead of a jacket, and a slipcase may be included for added protection or presentation.

Variations and details include cloth-bound, leather-bound, and faux-leather bindings, as well as quarter-binding or three-quarter binding where only part of the cover is reinforced. Hardcover editions may also be released in combination with other features, such as decorative endpapers, special typography, or color illustrations. In publishing, hardcovers are sometimes issued with a dust jacket and a disposable protective wrap, and libraries may use reinforced or library-binding variants for longevity.

Durability and use: hardcovers are heavier and more expensive than paperbacks but provide greater protection for pages and a longer shelf life. They are favored by libraries, collectors, and readers seeking longevity, and are commonly used for initial releases, notable works, and prestige editions. They are often followed by paperback editions after the initial run.

History and context: the hardcover binding developed in Europe and became widespread in the 18th through 19th centuries, becoming a standard format for many publishers. Today, hardcover remains a common option for high-profile releases, reference works, and archival-quality editions.