ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Do you love the look of bound books with creative covers and textures?  What if you had the opportunity to learn how to turn some of your favorite books into visual works of art?

If so, you can join the Orange Beach Public Library on July 9 as they offer a class that will teach a few simple bookbinding techniques. Once learned, you may use these skills to make your own holiday gifts or maybe a journal for yourself.

Reference librarian Maria Baroco will be leading the course and is excited about the possibilities.

“Our emphasis will be on demystifying book construction and expanding attendees ideas about what makes a book,” Baroco said. “We will have samples and take home instructions for two simple book constructions – star accordion and pamphlet stitch.”

While the library will provide all of the supplies you need and will give you plenty of ideas for when you get home, Baroco says one may be surprised at what they have available around the house to use for bookbinding.

“We will have practice materials to work with at the library, but we will also discuss options for making these books with materials commonly found at home. The possibilities are endless, from creating a flip-book cartoon using your morning cereal box to creating a nature journal that can blend into the woods,” Baroco said.

While this instructional class is designed for an adult audience, Baroco says the projects can easily be translated into simple summer or holiday craft projects for children.

The Simple Bookbinding Techniques class is offered as part of the Library’s Adult Summer Reading Program and is open to the public.

The class will begin a 6 p.m. and pre-registration is requested. Those interested in attending can register online at orangebeachlibrary.org or by phone by calling 981-8179