Chi Chi said she would answer questions about bookbinding, assess books in need of repair and provide advice on care and storage to ensure the safety of people’s heirloom books.
“Traditional bookbinding is a specialised field where books are made and restored all by hand using the methods and techniques of the ancient artisans,” Chi Chi said.
“Most bookbinding over the past few decades has changed to mechanic binding, leaving traditional bookbinders scarce, which is why they are now classed as a lost trade.”
One of Chi Chi’s most recent projects has been the restoration of a family bible for local identity Margot Colson.
“The 1850 bible contained the Hughes family history dating back six generations and it was Margot’s wish to pass it on to her son, Jeffrey, and his family,” Chi Chi said.
Chi Chi has also restored a book that was a cultural treasure; remembering a local pioneer’s life, written as a stanza poem, which recounted his experiences and hardships during settlement.
She said the pages were old and in disarray, with copious amounts of sticky tape holding the torn pages together.
“My work can be so rewarding — too many of our books, journals, family bibles and records are being discarded or left to rot when they can be saved for future generations and our collective history,” Chi Chi said.
“My passion is to save these books before it is too late.”
Traditional BookBinding will exhibit some rare bookbinding tools and old books, give book care advice and provide free inspections and quotes for restoration. If you are interested in creating your own book, TBB bookbinders can provide suggestions.
The exhibition will be held on Thursday, October 27 from 10am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 3pm at Nagambie Library, 352 High St, Nagambie.
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