We have moved and under new ownership of Raptis Rare Books! See below for our new address.

Harcourt Bindery

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Harcourt Bindery

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Matthew and Adrienne Raptis of Raptis Rare Books purchased the Harcourt Bindery in 2023.

Adrienne and Matthew Raptis continue the bookbinding tradition.

While the world has changed and the era of bitcoin and NFTs are becoming more and more prevalent, the history and tradition of physical books is also becoming something to treasure as these items become all the more of a rarity.  

Adrienne and Matthew Raptis (of Raptis Rare Books) are proud to be part of the continuing story of the Harcourt Bindery.  Our love and passion for books grew into an antiquarian bookstore located at 329 Worth Avenue (previously 226 Worth Avenue) in Palm Beach, Florida that specializes in fine first editions, signed and inscribed books, and landmark books in all fields. We have distinguished ourselves by having a reputation for handling unique and important books that are in exceptional condition.


Whether you are looking to restore a family heirloom or have a custom clamshell box made to protect a modern first edition book, the Harcourt Bindery will be here to serve you. 

Matthew and Adrienne Raptis

Because reading books and having them bound represent two enormously different stages of development. First, people gradually get used to reading, over centuries naturally, but they don't take care of their books and toss them around. Having books bound signifies respect for the book.


— Fyodor Dostoyevsky

Meet our Staff

Robert DeCristoforo, manager of the Harcourt Bindery in Boston, Massachusetts

Robert DeCristoforo

Robert DeCristoforo

Robert DeCristoforo

Robert started working for A.M. Sulkin in 1974, which merged with Harcourt. He manages and works on various projects. 

David Kinghorn

Robert DeCristoforo

Robert DeCristoforo

David graduated from the first class of North Bennet Street School and does the majority of our finishing work.  

Floyd Masten

Robert DeCristoforo

Floyd Masten

"Butch" has been with Harcourt for 44 years and is skilled in hand binding and gold stamping and tooling.

Jeidy Ryan

Frank Jones

Frank Jones

Jeidy has been with the bindery for 17 years and is skilled in sewing on an antique traditional frame.  

Frank Jones

Frank Jones

Frank Jones

Frank is a leather forwarder and makes  custom clamshell boxes.

Patricia Rosen

Samantha Griglack

Samantha Griglack

Tricia has worked at Harcourt for 20 years and does leather forwarding and repair work.

Samantha Griglack

Samantha Griglack

Samantha Griglack

 Samantha is a graduate of North Bennet Street School and works as a gold finisher on clamshell boxes and leather bindings. 

We're Hiring!

Join Our Team

If you're interested in one of our open positions, start by applying here and attaching your resume.


Current open positions:  


 

Bookbinding Manager

Location: Boston, MA

Hours: Full-time | Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Reports to: Owner


Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Bindery Manager to oversee the daily operations of our historic workshop. The ideal candidate combines hands-on craftsmanship with strategic thinking, capable of honoring time-honored traditions while helping to lead the Bindery into a sustainable and profitable future.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee and execute daily operations of the bindery, including workflow delegation and project management
  • Provide estimates, process billing, and handle client communications in person and via email
  • Cut and measure stock, materials, and custom boxes for projects
  • Operate and maintain machinery, including paper cutters and other specialized bindery equipment
  • Maintain appropriate inventory levels and purchase supplies to support consistent workflow
  • Apply general and advanced bookbinding and restoration techniques, including:
  • Gold stamping and decorative finishing
  • Adhesive selection and application
  • Knowledge and use of various paper types and weights
  • Basic printing processes
  • Wrap, ship, and receive materials and client projects with care and precision
  • Keep a clean and orderly shop environment, including daily tasks like trash disposal
  • Cultivate a client-first atmosphere while honoring the artistry and integrity of fine bookbinding
  • Identify and implement opportunities to increase profitability, streamline operations, and support long-term growth


Requirements:

  • Extensive experience in bookbinding and/or book restoration
  • Proficiency in handling and maintaining bindery tools and equipment
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Excellent communication and customer service abilities
  • A practical understanding of estimating, purchasing, and billing processes
  • Ability to manage multiple projects while ensuring high craftsmanship standards
  • Physically able to perform manual tasks, including lifting and standing for extended periods
  • A mindset that balances respect for tradition with forward-thinking initiative
  • Experience in a leadership or managerial role preferred


Compensation:

Commensurate with experience, with opportunity for performance-based bonuses.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits: Health insurance compensation

Shift: Day shift

Work Location: In person


Bookbinder


Harcourt Bindery is looking for a full time individual with hand skills, to train in gilt tooling, and in book preparation in the art of hand bookbinding. You will also be trained for other aspects of hand bookbinding, such as assembling trays for protective boxes, hand casing books, and covering trays. $15-20 based on experience. 

Apply Now

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  • Our History

Harcourt Bindery

50 Terminal Street Suite 612 Charlestown, MA 02129

617-242-5959

Copyright © 2025 Harcourt Bindery - All Rights Reserved.

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