Question about book format. What is a library binding?

[Mr N8]

I am looking for a book for my wife in hardcover, but its OOP. I found 1 in lower condition than I want it, but I found it in "library binding." Can anyone tell me what this is? Thanks.

 

[Kadarin]

If I'm not mistaken, they remove the original binding and rebind it in a more utilitarian fashion. Ever see a library book that didn't have the original cover art?

 

[Tom]

I think it's more rugged, since library books get used a lot more.

 

[Aboroth]

Thanks to Google. Link