Binding element and associated method for binding

A combination binding structure for binding a bundle of sheets and at least one staple meant to secure the bundle of sheets together, comprising a binding member that includes a base, a pair of opposed position legs that are integrally formed with and extend from respective sides of the base, said pair of legs and base together defining a retention area in which the bundle of sheets is held, said pair of legs constructed and arranged with a resilient bias toward each other, but separable to enable the bundle of sheets to be held therebetween under a biasing force, at least one of said legs having at least one inwardly directed rib arranged for contact with the bundle of sheets, said staple extending through the bundle of sheets having opposed ends thereof extending beyond opposed sides of the bundle of sheets, at least one staple end engageable with the at least one of the ribs, wherein said legs each having a series of spacedly disposed and inwardly directed ribs arranged for contact with opposed sides of the bundle of sheets, and wherein each staple has opposed protruding sides for engagement with at least one rib of respective legs.