In September 2005, shortly after starting as Special Collections Conservator for the Chicago Public Library, the author found herself in a brainstorming session for upcoming exhibitions. A few years prior to her arrival at CPL, she had approached the Library about the possibility of a bookbinding exhibition corresponding to their acclaimed One Book, One Chicago (OBOC) program. Although at that time the possibility did not pan out, she now had the unique inside opportunity to present the exhibition idea again. This time it was the five-year anniversary of One Book, One Chicago. She brought samples of bookbinding and book art to give an idea of what we might expect as entries. Fortunately, everyone immediately agreed that a juried bookbinding exhibition with prizes was a great way to celebrate the