You can glue a book spine at home if it has come loose on a
collectible book that is still in good condition, with no missing
covers. Glues for using on book covers and other collectible paper
materials can be purchased through archival conservation and
preservation sources. These glues will keep the spine in place without
damaging the quality of the paper or the rest of the book. Whether the
spine is loose or torn, it can be restored to protect the book's
binding.
Gluing a Loose Book Spine
The spine of the book to be glued in place may only be slightly
loose. Loosening happens when the book is turned to a second page and a
lot of pressure is put on it when the book is turned upside down on a
surface. In this case, squirt out a few small drops from the tube of
archival book glue to the inside of the cover's spine. Apply light
pressure to the spine so it comes in direct contact with the bound side
of the pages in the book. Do not place the book's spine in a vise to let
it dry as this will damage the cover of the book. Allow the glue to dry
for 30 minutes.
Gluing a Torn Book Spine
A torn book spine can be glued to the binding of a book. In this
case, the spine is separate from the front cover and back cover of the
book, or may be only partially torn off. Spread a thin layer of glue
down the center of the book spine and set in place against the binding
of the book. Let the glue dry for 30 minutes. Once the glue is dry, you
can open the book.