bookwork

or book-work

[boo k-wurk]

noun

work or research that requires studying or reading, as distinguished from laboratory experimentation or the like.

bookkeeping or other paperwork necessary to the running of a business.

Printing. work on books or pamphlets, as distinguished from work on newspapers.

Origin of bookwork

1840–50; book + work; compare Old English bōcweorc study, independently formed from same elements

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for bookwork

Historical Examples of bookwork

Not till quite recently have type-faces of the right weight for bookwork been designed and placed on the general market.
The London Mercury, Vol. I, Nos. 1-6, November 1919 to April 1920
Various
A specimen pamphlet of bookwork, with prices, a complete Author's Guide, sent post free for 4d.
Notes and Queries, Number 57, November 30, 1850
Various
Handwork takes more time than bookwork, and children evolve plans but slowly.
Primary Handwork
Ella Victoria Dobbs
Large orders of needlework are executed, but the mornings are devoted to bookwork.
Hampstead and Marylebone
Geraldine Edith Mitton
The little block is best adapted for bookwork, and is interesting as showing the quality obtained by reduction.
The Art of Illustration
Henry Blackburn

British Dictionary definitions for bookwork

bookwork

noun

the keeping of accounts

learning through the study of books rather than from practical experience

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012