Benefits of Ex-library Books

There are a lot of ex-library books for sale on ebay. You may be asking yourself why would you want one? Aren't ex-library books always in awful condition? Weren't they discarded for a reason?

This guide is to help dispel the myth that all ex-library books are not worth buying.

1. Ex-library books are often discarded because they are considered out of date, however many researchers are looking for these older books.

2. Ex-library books often have reinforced bindings giving them many more years of life.

3. They are a great way to get a reading copy of a hard to find title, especially if you're not interested in reselling it.

4. They often have mylar (acid free plastic) coverings that protect the dust jacket. This allows you to purchase a hard to find dust jacket for a fraction of the price!

5. Many ex-library books are first edition first printings.

6. Ex-library books, especially children's are often award winners, like Newberry or Caldecott.

7. Purchasing ex-library books is often cost effective. Sometimes a book that you need to finish your collection will be listed for a lot less if it is an ex-library book. This is great for those books you simply want to read!

8. Many books, especially childrens books from the 30's and 40's, are almost only available as ex-library as the libraries were the only ones purchasing them.  A noteworthy example being Gregg Press; a significant small press publisher (primarily Sci-Fi), marketed to libraries.
   

9. The chain of provenance or history of an items ownership is well-established. This can be especially desirable in very early examples.

10. Purchasing an ex-library book that one read as a child helps to complete the experience remembered by the collector. The memory of checking out a library book.

When you are shopping for a book on eBay, give those library books a chance. They are worth a closer look!

I would like to thank all of the wonderful members of the Booksellers discussion board for thier help with my guide! Thank you again!