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How to Catalog a Rare Book

To those that collect rare books, a catalog provides an essential method for keeping track of one's collection. Once cataloged, the list can be used not only to keep inventory, but also to print out and utilize as a method for insurance purposes or as a means for shopping when attempting to complete collections. Creating a catalog for your rare books can be done with little difficulty.

Instructions

- 1
  Enter the author and book information. The author's last name, then first name, should be the first thing listed on your catalog, ending with a period. Follow this by writing out the title of the book, all in caps, and ending with a period as well.
- 2
  Enter the publication stats. List the publisher and year of the publication in parentheses followed by a comma. List which edition it is if it is not a first edition. Because most rare collectible books are first edition, do not specify this in your catalog.
- 3
  List the page count and volume information. List how many pages the book has by giving the numeric number and a "p" with no space in between and followed by a comma. If the book has more than one volume, you may choose to include these as only one entry in your catalog, in which case the number of volumes should be listed after the page count.
- 4
  List any special stats the book may have. If the book is signed, this is a good place to list it. In addition, list any damage the book may have, or if there is a missing dust jacket. Finally, provide the price you paid for the book. If you happen to get the book appraised, you may want to include this price, along with the date you did so.

Other Collecting