Book accessory question

I was watching a TV show, Pawn Stars, or some such. A client came in with a very old book and the proprietor took out a big pillow like thing to set the book on to inspect it. The "pillow" was shaped to prevent the book from opening too far and breaking the spine. A book dealer then came on to reinforce that this "pillow" was definitely to be used whenever looking at old or expensive books.
My questions are what is this pillow called, is it of any real use, and if so, where to get one?

They're called "cradles". Yes, they are of real use.

University Products carries a couple here and here. Gaylord carries some acrylic cradles. Or you could make your own.

You can get at "nextag". Search: "portable book stands " and other related products available .

or at Amazon - "TEMO book stand" - can be used for books,cookbooks, music sheets.

Thank you both, now to decide on which type.
I guess there is some value in those reality TV shows afterall.

> 5

I think your choice should depend on the book. If it's a valuable book, or in a delicate state, you'll want a softer cradle, and you'll want to void anything with a clamp or other sort of holder. (You can get book "snakes" to hold down a page if you want.)