Publishers' Bindings Online, 1815-1930: The Art of Books is a three-year grant project funded by the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The University of Alabama Libraries, as the lead institution, is working with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries to make available this cutting-edge digital resource relating to the study of 19th and early 20th century American book covers.
This project brings together via the Web a collection of decorative bindings in a searchable database, along with a rich bibliography, information about bindings designers, and other research materials that further the study of these works. These books offer a glimpse into many aspects of American history and life, including Westward expansion, the Civil War, and the Gilded Age as well as capture the very first moments when Europe began to look toward America for ideas and inspiration in graphic and industrial design.
The first version of the database was made available to the public on March 1, 2005. Frequent updates will be made to the site, including the continuing population of the database and additional research and educational materials.