How to Find Collectible or

Valuable Books at Book Sales

with help from the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County

Although one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, every book is a treasure!

But some books have more value than others because they are rare or important. These two

qualities increase a book’s value.

I Follow these five tips to find hidden treasures at

book sales

Step 1.Check the book’s flap.

The flap of the book is one easy way to discover its worth. First edition books are more valuable than later editions.

First edition books will usually say “first edition” on the copyright page and/or have a number line starting with 1.

Does it have a dust jacket? With collectible books, dust jackets account for 90% of the value of the book.

Step 2.An author’s first book

is usually the most valuable.

In two or three columns

James Patterson's first book, The Thomas Berryman Number, is listed online starting at more than $2,000. The same goes for other well-known authors.

In two or three columns

If it’s a first edition and an author’s first book, it may be worth money.

Step 3.Look for autographed

copies

If a book has been signed by its author, illustrator, or editor; it will be more sought after by collectors and worth more.

Step 4.Use websites to

search for the value of your title

Use a detailed book search website to look for a particular book and discover its value.

Step 5.Use a book to find a

book

If you want to become an avid book collector, look in Bookman's Price Index (BPI) to find the prices and availability of antiquarian and rare books in the United States, Canada, and the British Isles.

Now you’re ready to test your knowledge!

Stop by the Friends of the Library Warehouse at 8456 Vine Street in Hartwell.

Sale Hours

The Warehouse is open select days through the week and holds several big sales with extended hours during the year.

Members get bonuses including big discounts during sales.

Join or renew your membership today!

For more tips and tricks about how to find collectible/valuable books, email friendsofplch1@fuse.net.

Place your screenshot here

For upcoming book sales from the Friends of the Public Library, visit Friends.CincinnatiLibrary.org.