<<Although it's a nifty idea, (and one in which I'm eager to try with my own scanner when digitizing large fragile maps) -- it seems to me, this won't help much with the "broken binding" issues.  What about using a digital camera and a copy-stand?

- David ->>

And yes, you can get very good results with a digital camera.  The courthouse down the street from us has a number of fragile volumes that cannot be photocopied because the bindings will not stand up to the rigors of a photocopier or scanner.  They will allow the volume to be photographed.  What we have done is used a digital camera (preferably 5 megapixel or greater) and place the volume on a low surface--this can even be the floor--with a cradle type support (try foam wedges) to relieve the stress on the binding.  Then use a tripod and direct the camera towards the volume.  (Yes, you are now pointing it to the floor!)  Take several exposures and several light settings so you can take your pick of what looks good.  Pay attention to shadows and such.

Yes, it works.  And it's cheap (well, alot cheaper than the overhead Minolta).  And I'd definitely recommend it for _occasional_ situations which are exceptional.  (Not a high volume shop, but a low budget/low volume shop.) 

Holly Wilhelm Mills
Amherst, VA

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