What is the difference between a hardcover book and one that is specified as “school and library binding”?
A school or library binding is generally a TYPE of a hardcover binding. The material used is likely buckram or some other sturdy substance. The idea is to make a binding that will withstand heavy use by students or library patrons. A library binding is usually not the original binding. Collectors, of course, tend to stay away from library bindings, but these bindings were never intended for that market in the first place.