The article concerns the relative merits of adhesive bindings vs. oversewing for different types of books. The article follows a discussion by a panel of experts at the Fall Technology Workshop of the Library Binding Institute. It was concluded that an adhesive bound volume may be as strong as an oversewn volume, but that several limitations must be kept in mind. First, there is a trade off between between strength and openability. It is important to communicate with the binder regarding the ultimate use of the volume. In general, oversewing is considered best for library books subject to heavy usage and extensive circulation. However, with narrow margins and no folds, a library binder has no choice but to select adhesive binding. Spine preparation techniques will enhance the quality of double fan adhesive binding. Openability of an adhesive bound book can be adjusted by choosing different types of spines. Double fan adhesive binding and its preparation may not represent a cost saving over oversewing. Both can provide durable bindings if the 1986 Standard for Library Binding is followed.