Slipcase: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term combines 'slip', meaning to slide, and 'case', referring to a container, showing its purpose clearly.
• First used in the late 19th century, it reflected the growing popularity of protecting books as collectibles.

Literature

• Slipcases are often used for limited edition books, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and longevity.
• Famous works by authors like J.K. Rowling and Stephen King have been issued in slipcases to commemorate their significance.

Art & Design

• Artists and designers sometimes create slipcases with unique art to reflect the book's theme or content.
• Some slipcases double as art pieces, allowing them to be displayed as part of home decor.

Collectibles

• Book collectors often seek slipcased editions, as they indicate a book is special or limited in format.
• The presence of a slipcase can significantly increase the resale value of a book among collectors.

Educational Use

• Slipcases are useful in classrooms to protect textbooks from wear and tear during heavy use.
• They serve as an organizing tool, allowing educators to keep sets of books together.