Definition & Meaning of "limp binding"

What is "limp binding"?

Limp binding is a bookbinding method where the book’s cover is made from a soft, flexible material, such as leather or flexible paper. Unlike hardcover binding, which uses stiff boards, limp binding allows the book to be more bendable and lightweight. The soft cover is often sewn directly to the book’s text block, providing a flexible and less rigid feel. This type of binding is commonly used for books that are meant to be more portable and easy to handle, such as journals, notebooks, and certain types of reference materials.