It's great to know that you're passionate about preserving books. Like many book lovers, I really love hard copies. I enjoy flipping through the pages, fixing my eyes on the words, and reading slowly yet steadily.
One thing about hardcovers is that, over time, they tend to fall apart, especially around the edges. I've never thought of creating custom covers for my books; instead, I usually tape the torn parts.
Recently, a friend borrowed one of my hard copies, which I had purchased earlier this year. When they returned it, I noticed that the edges had started to come loose. This is why I'm hesitant to lend my novels to others.
Interesting read.