How Do You Make Money Dealing Old & Rare Books?
Successful dealers in old and rare books are aware that the business takes years of learning and experience. Bad pricing and poor condition descriptions are the two most common mistakes people new to the trade make. Using resources to determine price, until you’re comfortable with making up your own prices, will help you avoid the first mistake. Learning the commonly used description terms and being completely honest in your descriptions will prevent the second. Educate yourself in the value of books, how to determine edition and condition and how to describe books. Attend the rare book school, find lectures on rare books and attend seminars (see Resources). Read references on book collecting and book selling. Find an established dealer to apprentice with or work in a used bookstore. Find books to sell by going to library sales, thrift stores and other book dealer’s shops. Get word out through advertisements, business cards and word of mouth that you’re available to visit people’s home
