Notebooks are one of those everyday items we barely think about... until we need one. But have you ever wondered where they came from, who invented them, and why we even use them in the first place?
As someone who makes embroidered notebook covers for a living, I was curious too. So I did some digging — and it turns out, the humble notebook has a surprisingly interesting history. And despite smartphones, tablets and endless apps, notebooks are still a daily essential for so many people in the UK and beyond.
Who Invented Notebooks?
The exact origins of the notebook are tricky to pin down. People have been jotting things down for centuries — from ancient wax tablets to folded parchment. But the modern notebook as we know it really took off in the early 1900s.
In 1902, an Australian stationery company called J.A. Birchall is often credited with selling the first "notepad" — sheets of paper glued together at the top for easy tearing. It was a game-changer for shopping lists, notes, and everyday writing.
But the earliest bound notebooks go back even further. European bookbinders were producing small blank books in the 19th century, often for travellers, students, and writers on the go. In fact, the famous Moleskine-style notebook was popular among artists and writers long before it became a trendy brand name.
Quick Fact
Did you know that the word "notepad" was first used in an Australian advertisement in the early 1900s? Before that, blank books were simply called "memo books" or "writing books."
A Brief Timeline of Notebooks
- Ancient Times: Wax tablets used by the Greeks and Romans
- 14th Century: Bound notebooks appear in Europe
- 1902: J.A. Birchall sells the first glued notepad in Australia
- 1980s-90s: Rise of branded notebooks like Moleskine
- Today: Millions still use notebooks alongside digital tools
Why Are Notebooks Called Notebooks?
Pretty simple, really! They're called notebooks because they were originally used to "note" things down. Quick thoughts, reminders, ideas, and important information. The name stuck — and it's still just as relevant today.
Why Use Notebooks in a Digital World?
Despite all the apps and gadgets available, notebooks haven't gone out of fashion — and there's a reason for that. Studies show that writing by hand can help with memory, creativity, and focus. In fact, this study on handwritten notes and memory, published in Psychological Science, found that students who take handwritten notes retain information better than those who type.
Plus, notebooks are reliable. No batteries required!
Many people in the UK use notebooks for planning, journaling, creative writing, and even mindfulness. They're also ideal for people who simply prefer the feel of pen on paper or want a break from screen time.
Notebooks vs Digital Notes: A Quick Comparison
| Benefit | Notebooks (Paper) | Digital Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Memory & Focus | Boosts memory and focus | Quick to edit and share |
| Reliability | No tech issues | Needs devices |
| Experience | Personal & tactile | Convenient & searchable |
| Wellbeing | Ideal for mindfulness | Efficient for storage |
Why Are Notebooks Used in Programming?
If you've ever heard of a "Jupyter Notebook" or similar, that's a digital tool for programmers — but the name comes from the same idea: a space to jot down and organise ideas, code, and notes in a flexible, editable way.
What Are Notebooks Used For Today?
People use notebooks for all sorts of reasons:
- Journaling
- Planning
- Sketching
- List-making
- Creative writing
- Work and study notes
- Bullet journaling
- Memory-keeping
- Mindfulness and gratitude logs
They're personal, portable, and often quite beautiful (especially when handmade). If you love the idea of combining practicality with something a little more personal, I make embroidered notebook covers that fit standard A5 notebooks, right here in the UK. They add a lovely handmade touch and help protect your notebook from daily wear and tear. You can browse them here: Embroidered Notebook Covers
FAQs
Who invented notebooks?
J.A. Birchall of Australia is often credited with inventing the notepad in 1902, but bound notebooks existed in Europe long before that.
Why do we use notebooks?
Notebooks help us capture thoughts, stay organised, and boost creativity. They're simple, reliable, and personal.
Are notebooks still useful?
Absolutely! Despite digital alternatives, many people love the feel of pen on paper and the flexibility of a good notebook.
What are notebooks used for?
People use notebooks for journaling, sketching, writing, planning, studying, and organising their lives — both for work and personal projects.
Can notebooks be personalised?
Yes! Many small businesses in the UK, including mine, offer handmade or personalised notebook covers that make perfect gifts or keepsakes.
Final Thoughts
The notebook might seem like a small thing, but it's a little everyday tool that connects us to centuries of note-taking humans before us. Whether you're scribbling down a shopping list, sketching ideas, or pouring your heart out in a journal, you're part of that story too.
And if you're someone who still loves the feel of pen on paper, why not make your notebook feel even more special? Treat yourself to a beautiful handmade notebook cover that reflects your style and protects your notes for years to come.
