Dust Jacket Covers Buying Guide

Welcome to Dust Jacket Covers 101 or Everything you wanted to know about Dust Jacket Covers and then some!

There are several things to consider when purchasing a Dust Jacket Cover, also called Book Jacket Covers or Mylar Covers (although not actually made from Mylar).  The three main things to consider are Type, Style and Size. 

TYPE:  The type of Dust Jacket cover is pretty much a personal choice.    Most collectors prefer the archival dust jacket covers.

• Archival Quality:  Can be used on ANY book and is preferred by book collectors.  The easiest way to tell the difference between Archival & Non-Archival is to look for printing on the paper Backing.  If there is printing present, it's NOT archival.  With Archival Quality, The paper backing, clear film and the adhesive used to fasten the film to the backing are all formulated to meet Archival Specifications   

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• The paper is acid free with NO printing.   The film is chemically stable polyester (lots of people call this Mylar in error), and last but not least, the adhesive used to bind the paper to the clear polyester is pH neutral (no migrating acids). 
• There are NO  sticky adhesive strips to hold the fold shut. Over time the sticky adhesive can (and does) migrate on to the Book or DJ.
• All of these combined make for a long lasting book jacket cover that will not yellow or crack, acids will not migrate to your book or DJ.  Since there is no ink (which is acidic), there is no acid migration or ink bleeding through to your DJ or Book especially if you live in a very humid climate or if the cover accidently gets damp.
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• Non-Archival:  Is just what the name implies, Non-archival.  This type of cover is used extensively in libraries to cover books.  This is a great choice for those who just want to protect the Dust Jacket from wear and tear.  These are also a great idea for booksellers because the DJ cover protects the DJ and makes it look better.  It will also keep the dust jacket from further damage in the mailing process. 
• There is usually printing on the paper backing
• The Ink is not considered archival and is acidic and could lead to migrating acids getting on your dust jacket or books.
• The glue used to bind the paper backing is not pH neutral.

STYLE:  There are 2 main styles for Book Jacket Covers

• Bottom Loading (Open edge Adjustable):   Allows for a more flexible fit for more sizes of books.  The bottom loading style will accommodate books that are several inches smaller than the stated size.
• They can be folded several inches smaller than the stated size without losing the added protection of the paper backing.
• Center Loading:  The center loading style is designed for an exact fit.  No folding involved. 
• They can be folded and not lose the clear film cover but they will lose part of the added protection of the paper backing.

SIZE:  The best way to insure a correct fit is to measure the height of the dust jacket or book.  Choose the size that matches the height to your Dust Jacket or a few inches taller. You can always fold the Cover to fit smaller books, but you cannot make them bigger than the stated size. 

Then choose whether you would like Pre-cut sheets or rolls.

• Pre-cut Sheets:  Are a Time saver!  These are a set length and just require you insert the DJ and fold to fit.  They come in a wide variet of sizes.  A sharp crease will hold the Dust Jacket in place.
• Rolls:  Rolls allow you to cut the length of your Dust Jacket Cover length to YOUR specifications. 

If you found this guide helpful, check YES in the box below.  If you need clarification on anything please feel free to contact us.  Thank you.

Brodart Book Jacket Covers - Archival and Non-Archival