A matchbook is a small cardboard folder that holds matches and has a striking surface for lighting them. The matches are attached in a row inside the folder, with their heads pointing toward a rough strip on the back cover. To use one, you tear out a match, close the cover, and strike the match head against that rough surface to create a flame.

Before plastic lighters became common, matchbooks were everywhere: restaurants, hotels, and businesses gave them away for free with their names and logos printed on the cover. People collected interesting matchbooks the way kids today might collect stickers or trading cards. Your grandparents might still have a drawer full of matchbooks from places they visited decades ago.

Matchbooks are smaller and flatter than matchboxes, which makes them easier to slip into a pocket or bag. Today you'll still find them at some restaurants and camping supply stores, though lighters have mostly replaced them.