Writing & StyleStyle guide

Endpapers

OUP describes endpapers as optional elements in hardback or case-bound books that may be illustrated. Because endpapers can be obscured or absent in library, paperback, or digital versions, essential images or information should also appear elsewhere.

Quick answer

Endpapers are pages at the front and back of a hardback/case-bound book that may carry maps, figures, or other artwork. Essential information should not exist only there.

Key details

Core IssueOUP describes endpapers as optional elements in hardback or case-bound books that may be illustrated
Registerbook publishing and document structure

Important caveats

Access Boundary

["Do not place essential information only on endpapers; OUP warns that they may be obscured or omitted in other formats or library copies."]

Scope Boundary

["Endpapers are format- and production-dependent, not a universal requirement for books or digital editions."]

Further guidance

Purpose

["Use endpapers for supplementary visual material or design treatment at the ends of a case-bound book."]

Sources and evidence

Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.

  1. Front and end matter — Oxford Academic (opens in a new tab)Oxford University Press · OUP book-workflow guidance for forewords, prefaces, half-title/frontispiece, epigraph, illustration/map lists, contributors, reader notes and endpapers

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