Frequently Asked Questions: Rare Books and Special Collections

The Library of Congress does not appraise books; comparisons over email are very difficult and can be inaccurate.

You can consult some of the major online used-book sellers, and search for your book and you may, by comparison, get an idea of what your book is worth.

Addall

Bookfinder 

or

Vialibri

There is a whole world / vocabulary to books, so please be careful when interpreting the information you find.  Condition is a major factor in determining the value of a book.  Generally speaking, books are worth much less if their condition has been compromised.  Please keep in mind that these are booksellers advertising their products. 

IOBA Condition Definitions

The Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America's site has a helpful feature called ‘Find Member Bookseller’ where you can cross-reference the subject of your book(s) and your location, for a dealer who specializes in the subject of your books and who is geographically close to you. 

Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America

Specialized businesses such as auction houses and antiquarian booksellers can help you appraise individual books and larger collections.  Contact information for specialists to authenticate or appraise your item can be found through professional organizations such as the American Society of Appraisers.

American Society of Appraisers

We hope that this is helpful; If not, please feel free to submit your question to begin a conversation with a Reference Librarian.