PBO is a searchable database of decorative trade bindings produced by American publishers in the 19th and early twentieth centuries, with accompanying explanation, teaching materials, and other resources. Its purpose is to expand awareness of the book as artifact and of the role decorative bindings play in providing a window into historical, cultural, and industrial period of 1815-1930. Created in a partnership between the University of Alabama Libraries and the University of Wisconsin Libraries with support from IMLS (Institute of Museum and Library Services), the project when completed will afford the opportunity to study up to 5,000 decorative bindings from two different physical collections in a single, virtual location. Reflected in the database are the regional, national, and historical development of a vibrant and lively book culture in the United States.