A new solution to the problem of red rot in leather bindings of old books is described. To rebind old books, it is necessary to remove the original leather backing which is often too brittle to be handled without applying a facing. Since an aqueous adhesive would dissolve the rotting leather, Beva 371 (thinned in naphtha, 1:1) was successfully used to apply a facing. Upon removal of the facing it was found that the small amount of Beva which had been absorbed by the powdery leather appeared to consolidate it and enhance its flexibility with a minimal color change and without significantly altering the feel of the leather. It was possible to apply leather dressings as usual. -- AATA