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Book collecting is the acquisition of books. It is one of the most rewarding of all hobbies. It can also be a delightful addition to another hobby, or to serious study of almost any subject. Book collectors make collections for various reasons. One reason may be a personal interesting an author or in a subject. Many collectors prize a first addition for the feeling of close relationship to its author that the book brings. Some persons collect rare books as an investment. Desirable editions in good condition will probably always be worth what is paid for them, and perhaps more.

Some booklovers, or bibliophiles, collect to save worthy books and preserve them for posterity. Most of the large libraries of the 1500’s, 1600’s, and 1700’s were brought together with this purpose in mind.

Modern book collecting began in Europe when some men realized that the early printed books were disappearing. Some books had been worn out with use, and others had been seized, suppressed, or destroyed.

Fields of collecting are endless. They include first editions; early printed books; books with fine bindings; books with fine color illustrations; books for children; books on many subjects, such as periods of history, a region, furniture, birds, cookery, arts and crafts, or sports; books about certain persons, such as Abraham Lincoln; or books by certain authors. Beginning collectors tend to collect indiscriminately. In time, the field of interest narrows to manageable limits. Sensational prices that rare books sometimes bring at auction increase interest in book collecting, and inspire new searchers for treasure in books.