Binding system using arc-shaped retainer

A binding system, comprising:

• a retainer having an arc-shaped cross-section fabricated from a flexible material, the arc-shaped cross-section having an inner diameter and an associated arc angle of at least 200 degrees and less than 360 degrees thereby providing an opening slot that extends along a length of the retainer from a first end to a second end;
• two end plugs having an outer diameter, the end plugs being adapted to be inserted into the ends of the retainer;
• wherein the retainer and the end plugs are adapted to bind a set of media sheets by;
• inserting the set of media sheets into the retainer such that at least one end of each media sheet extends out of the opening slot and such that the portion of the media sheets inside the retainer form a loop;
• and
• inserting the end plugs into the ends of the retainer and into the media sheet loops;
• and wherein the retainer flexes to provide a clamping force to bind the set of media sheets when the end plugs are inserted into the ends of the retainer.