On the first of the year, the Hardcover Binders International/Library Binding Institute (HBI/LBI) merged with the Book Manufactures’ Institute. Through the merger, HBI/LBI will continue to exist as the Library Binding Council within BMI.
The newly named Library Binding Council will continue many of the same services offered by HBI/LBI and Debra Nolan, HBI/LBI executive director, will continue with the merged organization through December 31, 2015; Nolan will represent the Council at ALA’s annual conference. Werner Rebsamen, HBI/LBI technical consultant, will stay on as technical consultant to the Council as well. The publications, Endpaper and ShelfLife, will continue and include information relevant to all members of the merged association.
Jac Garner, president of BMI, observes that “This merger provides the best opportunity for both associations to continue to represent the best interest of their members in this changing environment, and continue to provide world class support and services for their members, their member’s customers, and ultimately the consumer.”
