Abstract: In a process and apparatus for binding books, upper (forward) portions of bookblocks in a vertical position with backs down are gripped by clamps on a conveyor for transporting the bookblocks through successive operating stations. At one operating station a rotating element dipping in a bath of adhesive applies adhesive in transverse strips to backs of bookblocks. At another operating station rollers apply adhesive to lower (rear) portions of first and last pages of the bookblocks. As front and back covers connected by a back are transported, inside up, along a path merging with the path along which said bookblocks are transported, adhesive is applied by rollers or spray heads to outer (forward) portions of the front and back covers. The covers are brought under respective bookblocks and lower (rear) portions of the bookblocks together with the covers are gripped between opposed pressing bars.