I have been waiting for this. It’s HUGE news: The American Academy of Bookbinding in Telluride, Colorado has announced the first year of what will be a triennial fine binding competition and exhibition in the United States. I’m really excited about this! [throws confetti in the air while doing a happy dance]

The competition is called OPEN • SET. It is the best of both worlds: a set book competition and an open book competition. Competitors can enter either or both categories. I love that. There are benefits and drawbacks to both types of competition. OPEN • SET levels the playing field by offering both options. AAB has specified that all three members of the blind jury will be well-known, professional fine binders. I am a neophyte in the traditions and politics of the binding world, but I have found myself puzzled by the composition of some panels of jurors. Again, I am a neophyte, so what I find odd might actually be sensible. Still, I find it reassuring that those at AAB who are organizing OPEN • SET are going to have professional fine binders judging fine bindings.

Below is what you need to know (click to see the full image). Stay tuned for updates.