Briefly surveys the history of books written on palm leaf, and indicates the botanical origins of the three types that provide suitable support for manuscripts. These are the talipat ( Corypha umbracilifera ), the lontar ( Corypha utan ), and the palmyra ( Borasus flabellifer ). Explains the preparation process and the structure of the palm leaf book. Reports on the various causes of damage, including the most common, insect infestation. Correct storage is an essential method for damage prevention. Other topics discussed are past mistakes; present practice; adhesives; paper used in repair; and the experimental restoration technique of bute-jointing.