I haven't bought a paperback book in so long that I haven't encountered this, but it sounds yucky.

I've only noticed these 'sticky' covers on library books, especially on the plastic over-covers they put on them. It certainly is an unpleasant feeling while reading the book. A librarian friend told me they used occasionally to wipe the covers with white spirit. Let's hope they are using something stronger these days.

I have noticed the sticky substance on library book covers for some years. I wipe this off with a disinfectant spray which I prefer to the white spirit which Vee mentioned and I assume is methylated spirit? I use that for mirrors mainly. As the stickiness attracts dirt and fingermarks I like to both clean and disinfect!

I have got rather fussy about borrowed books since the pandemic and like to buy new ones or request a recent library addition.

In fact, since my operations for cataracts, I am reading fewer books and watching TV more as I don't now need spectacles to do that.

I know exactly what yoyo means. I just noticed this recently on new paperback books. I tried wiping the books with alcohol and cleaning solutions, to no avail. I am baffled and find it most annoying.

Somehow I have failed to notice this. I think I'll try to remain ignorant of it. There are enough annoyances in my life already. ;^)

Mystery solved !

Apparently there is a choice between glossy and matte finishes on a cover, whether it's a paperback or hardcover. The glossy supposedly shows scratches and shelf wear more easily. This from a bindery site.......I boldfaced their statement about the feel. I would say that 'pleasant tactile experience' is a judgement call....

MATTE LAMINATE

Matte Laminate is often described as a more professional and elegant finish. Matte is currently the more "fashionable" choice for laminate. It is currently very popular among Young Adult titles. Authors, designers and consumers are enamored with the look and feel of matte lamination. The velvety texture of the finish makes for a pleasant tactile experience. The matte soft cover finish is less reflective than gloss, giving a more natural look to cover art. A less shiny cover absorbs more small scratches and scuffs without looking "beat up". The simple contrast of a matte cover among many glossy covers may draw it's own attention on the bookstore shelf.

A few caveats regarding matte lamination: While many love the soft feel of matte lamination, the texture can be unusual and unexpected for some. The less reflective finish can lessen the intensity of cover color, producing a more "washed-out" or muted palette. Matte lamination can produce lower contrast on darker colors, resulting in an overall softer look. While scratches and scuffs are more readily absorbed by matte lamination, this finish can be more susceptible to stains and spills.

It’s kinda rubbery, right?

It has a definitely unpleasant feel to me......rubbery might be a way to describe it. I guess it's like the cilantro effect: Some people love it and some find it horrifyingly disgusting .