Tips for antique children's book collectors on condition, storage, and where to find books.
Children's books from times long past hold a special place in many a collector's heart. They conjure up images of a simpler time, evoking that inner peace that many of us are constantly searching. Fortunately, though desired by many, it is not too hard to find good examples.
Where to Find
Online auctions such as Ebay and online book dealers such as Alibris.com, along with brick and mortar style used bookstores are often first-rate sources. The advantage of a typical walk-in style store over an online purchase is they provide you with an opportunity to actually handle and examine any purchase you might be considering.
Do not overlook second hand shops, estate sales, and typical auctions. Books are often placed together in lots to be bid on in bulk. You may have to bid on a box containing twenty books you have no desire to own to gain one perfect condition copy of Uncle Tom's Cabin, copyright 1900, which you have searched years for. However, the cost for the lot will often be far less than you would pay for the single book itself anywhere else.
At Ebay, enter the Antique section, from there go to the subheading Books, Manuscripts, and from there check the subheadings of both Children's and Illustrated. You will be rewarded with literally thousands of individual listings and multiple lots of books to peruse. The challenge will lie in finding an exact tile or edition. With the many sources available though, even that is highly probable. Checking and rechecking is the best way to uncover a perfect match for whatever title you are searching.
Be careful when buying sight unseen. Double check all sources to ensure that you are obtaining an original copy, not a brand new reproduction. Ask for additional photos of the books inside to check copyright information and other pertinent information. Ask specifically about condition and any damage that might exist.
Condition
Condition of books will vary as greatly as the titles available. One that is in excellent condition will have a spine that is tight and intact. The inside of the book should show no signs of mold, grease stains, or other detractions such as rips or tears. A slightly musty odor in books that have been stored away in an attic or old house is common, but double check for moisture damage if there is a measurable odor.
Many children's books will have a child's name inscribed somewhere within the pages, and though many feel that this does not affect the book in any way whatsoever, others will look for a book with no markings at all. If you are purchasing the book for personal gratification, the decision is really up to you. If purchasing for resale value, be aware that some buyers will frown on any marking whatsoever.
Children's books were not always made of paper. Linen was a popular substitute for numerous editions. Many of these editions, along with paper versions, were sometimes sewn with a heavy thread. Double-check the stitching for any additional damage along the sewing.
Storage
Displaying books is the definitive way to store your collection. If you must place your books into actual storage, place them in waterproof containers, inside of acid-free protection. High humidity can be as detrimental to books as water itself, so avoid placing your collection in a damp basement or garage. In addition, as tempting as it may be to pack books into as small a storage space as possible, don't. Ventilation is good for books, and if you jam books in too tight, it can damage the spine or pages when you go to pull the book out of its storage space. Make sure before storing away any type of book that they are pest free. Bookworms do exist and they will eat there way through bindings and pages causing irreparable damage.
