Abstract: A paperback-hard cover conversion insert and a method for using same. The insert is usable with a hard book cover having two spaced-apart stiff panel portions and a flexible hinge portion therebetween. The insert includes a flexible sheet attachable to the panel portions; a narrow, stiff piece of material with a configuration typical of that of a spine of a book, having a first side which is convex and a second side which is concave; and a compressible resilient material having in cross-section a generally elliptical configuration. The narrow, stiff piece of material has its first side attached to the flexible sheet between said panel portions, and its second side attached to a first convex side of the compressible, resilient material. The second convex side of the compressible resilient material is attachable to the spine of a book to position the book between the panel portions.