Why Books Evolved From Square to Rectangular Shape

Antiquarian bookseller Tom Ayling explained how books evolved from their original square to their current rectangular shape due to new and different materials, which include papyrus, parchment, and paper.

Almost every book is rectangular but this wasn’t always the case.

Parchment Books
Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.