Hey, Sass, I went through all of this a few years ago, cookbook stands, I built a mini-Thomas Jefferson book carousel and everything. I landed on the perfect thing for about 10 bucks. They're called "weighted bookmark" but no way would I cram one into the folds of a book.

It's a perfect size and weight to hold the book open, not heavy to carry and durable leather. I recommend it highly. They generally come in 2 sizes, a smaller one and a larger one meant for cookbooks, etc. I have the small one and it works just fine for larger books. I got mine at Barnes & Noble about 15 years ago and it has held up beautifully.

Here's a pic:
http://www.amazon.com/Maxi-Aids-Weig.../dp/B00014VVWQ