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How do rarity and desirability differ when collectors evaluate books?
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book collecting
A tutorial from the staff of the Folger Shakespeare Library on the safe handling of rare books, manuscripts, and prints.
In the hobby of book collecting, rarity and desirability are distinct qualities that collectors must balance when evaluating a volume.
- Rarity (Scarcity): This refers to how uncommon a book is. However, rarity does not automatically equate to high value or interest. A book may be scarce or even unique, yet remain of no interest to collectors if it lacks broader appeal. Conversely, some books that are relatively common can still command high prices if they are highly sought after.1
- Desirability: This is a measure of how much a book excites competition among collectors. Desirability is often driven by factors such as historical significance, the author's reputation, or the presence of "association" featuresāsuch as author inscriptions or ownership by a prominent person. A common book can be highly desirable, while a rare but obscure religious tract may be ignored.1
Ultimately, the value of a book is determined by the interplay between these two factors and the condition of the specific copy.1