How To Start Collecting Rare Books Guide
Collecting rare books was once limited to wealthy men, but it's now becoming more diverse as people turn to reliable information and physical media.
It’s also a lot of fun! After starting to sell and buy books, I’ve travelled, met a lot of interesting people, and found some treasures.
The guide below covers the basics of starting to collect rare books and the steps involved in building one. I have also created a free list of book collection ideas to help beginners start collecting rare books.
Collecting Rare Books
Book collecting involves finding, organising and displaying books. Collecting rare books begins with your passions and interests. While some collectors organise their books by a theme, it's not necessary to have a focus.
For example, natural history, science fiction, historical events, or the works of a particular author. Most of all, your enthusiasm will make the process of finding, displaying, and caring for rare books will make your hobby more fun.
Book Collection Examples –
Natural History, Botanical
Science Fiction, 1960s Pulp
History, French Revolution
Style, Art Nouveau
Author, Ian Fleming
Books I Found 2025
Book Collecting Inspiration
Finding inspiration for your rare book collection can start with social media like Pinterest and Instagram. These sites can help spark ideas for new themes, genres, or authors. In addition, book markets and local libraries can introduce you to new books and offer ideas for book displays.
Examples of Rare Book Collections –
Honey & Wax Book Collecting Prize
The ABA National Book Collecting Prize
How to Buy Rare Books
When buying rare books, start with a budget and consider whether you want to focus on a particular series, author, or theme. Gain inspiration from social media, book markets, and libraries to create your collecting interests.
Aldo, pay attention to the condition of each book carefully. To start collecting rare books, explore rare book fairs, specialty book shops, auction houses, and online sites like AbeBooks. Remember to research sellers and request details on the condition.
Rare Book Buying –
Auctions
Rare book fairs
Rare book shops
Websites, e.g. AbeBooks
Antiquarian Bookshops
Storing Rare Books
Storing books properly helps preserve your book collection for future generations. Keep books away from direct sunlight, drastic temperature shifts, and especially moisture. Ideally, books should be kept at about 20°C in a typical English climate.
Water damage from leaks is more hazardous to rare books. For very rare or valuable books, custom boxes or clamshell cases help shield them from light and air. You should also try to keep your books upright on a shelf.
Storing Rare Books –
Keep away from direct sunlight
Don’t keep in damp rooms
Display upright on a shelf
Displaying Your Rare Books
First, place your books upright on shelves to prevent warping. As mentioned, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or humidity. Consider using glass cabinets or custom cases to protect your collection. Or a basic wooden bookshelf, you can also display books open on it or even use props.
If you prefer privacy, you can keep your collection to yourself, but showcasing your books online can help you connect with other rare book collectors. I have found a great community of booksellers online.
How I Find Rare Books?
I find rare books through a variety of sources. Auctions are a great way to find unique and valuable titles, but be aware of auction fees. Job lots sometimes contain unexpected treasures, and they let me buy a group of books in bulk.
Secondhand bookshops are good for browsing the shelves and conversations with knowledgeable shop owners. Occasionally, I make house calls, visiting private collections, which can reveal rare editions tucked away in personal libraries.
You can also attend book markets, which are great for finding rare books. You can find these locally or explore the PBFA website.
I hope this blog post has helped you begin collecting rare books. I am still new to book selling and collecting so if you have any advice to share let me know below.