How to start collecting rare books (5 Key Tips)

[@hardysbooks]

Well, we knew we’d miss something. Here are a few extra tidbits that we either forgot about or had to cut for time: ⭐ First editions are usually hardbacks, and the collector’s market for hardbacks is much larger than for paperbacks (with a few exceptions, for instance Ballantine paperbacks). ⭐ If your book is ex-library, that will unfortunately impact its worth quite heavily. Ex-library books are rarely (if ever) gradable above Good condition. Even if there isn’t a lot wrong with it, it’s seen as a bit of a black mark. ⭐ There is a huge aftermarket for special editions, especially of books released in the last ten years or so. These books tend not to depreciate below their initial sale price. (The exception is for books published by the monthly subscription services [Illumicrate, Fairyloot, etc]-these are the closest modern equivalent to book clubs i.e. they have a captive audience and not every subscriber wants to keep every book they receive, therefore a lot end up on marketplaces which drives the price down.)

[@mvillmer]

As I watched your video I had my current read with me. Which I pucked up for $1 at z librsry sale. And now I discover it is a First Edition, First Print in near fine or fine condition! Now to ebay to look at past sales....

[@hardysbooks]

And you've already had a chance to apply the lesson! We love to see it

[@ThomasCarrels-to5xe]

Active "picking" which is typically hunting down leads and developing contacts that lead to the purchase of books from private sources is the most lucrative source of rare books. Takes a lot of time and patience, and generally involves travel. Picking on-the-road usually involves greater costs as private collections are valued more than, for example, a yard sale item.

[@baskinthestory]

This was really informative, I'm not a rare book collector but am fascinated by it. Maybe one day. Also those Discworld editions are magnificent!

[@hardysbooks]

We've got plenty more where they came from Matt! Complete collection coming in a future video…

[@baskinthestory]

@@hardysbooks excellent look forward to seeing it

[@jakelewis1752]

Great video as always 🎉

[@hardysbooks]

Great comment as always 😘

[@connors-curiosities]

Super cool insight into all this

[@TheDragonbornReviewer]

Very informative, man. Been getting some older books lately from GRRM and Tad Williams into my collection. Good stuff to know.

[@hardysbooks]

Very nice! Two authors which look great on any shelf

[@connors-curiosities]

Love the beanie! 🪄

[@hardysbooks]

She's a talent that girl