Have you ever wondered why books are square and not round or triangular? After knowing the reason you will also say 'wow'..

We have always seen books in the same way - straight, square, rectangular, but have you ever questioned why? Is this a rule? Is it a tradition? Or is it a reason that we never thought of? When experiments are being done every day in the design of mobiles, models of vehicles, and even chairs, then why are we so 'serious' in the case of books? Today we are going to tell you an interesting reason related to science and design, which you might have never heard before. Let's find out.

Practical design

It is very easy to stack square or rectangular books, arrange them in the cupboard, keep them in the bag, or keep them one above the other. If the books were round or triangular, then folding, storing, and carrying them would become a hassle.

Imagine what would happen if round books rotated in the bag, the corners of triangular books got bent and there was no space for books in the library?

The scientific reason for printing
The large paper sheets used in printing machines are rectangular. The most convenient and least wasted way to cut and fold them into book form is also rectangular.

That is, making round or triangular books means more time, more cost, and more waste.

Convenience of reading also matters.
When you open a book, your eyes move from left to right and top to bottom. Rectangular pages are best for this reading pattern. It is difficult to fit the text on round pages and triangular pages waste space.

The imprint of history
In ancient times, people used to write on scrolls (long paper rolls), but reading the scrolls was quite difficult – the roll had to be opened again and again. When books were invented, the rectangular format seemed the most convenient.

Gradually this format became a habit and today it has become the norm.

From production to design

Books are not just meant for reading, they also have to be designed, printed, bound and shipped. All these processes are easiest and cheapest in a square shape. This shape is also the most “cost-effective” for publishers.

Have round or triangular books ever been made?
Absolutely! Some artistic or children’s books have been made round, heart-shaped or triangular as an experiment, but these could not become common because their use and storage become difficult.

Books being square is not just a coincidence, but the result of centuries of practical understanding, reading convenience and production needs and this is the reason why we read square books even today and will probably continue to read them in the future too.

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