Someone not familiar with the industry may wonder why anyone would be interested in antique books. After all, a lot of times the information contained in them is so outdated that it’s downright inaccurate! Science books are almost comical with their rudimentary knowledge of the universe, medical books are surprisingly inaccurate about the workings of the human body and cause of many illnesses, and of course history books seem almost like fairy tales when held up against today’s modern world.

For many, antique books are something to be treasured and they are actually quite valuable to a lot of collectors. Especially bibles and other holy books, and writings of very famous people throughout history; all of these can fetch quite a sum at auction.

Some of the reasons that antique books are so coveted by collectors include the fact that they are so inaccurate when held up against today’s modern textbooks. When we understand how inaccurate medical books were from decades ago, we realize how much work doctors and scientists have done to get to where we are today - and how much more work there is to be done. Some appreciate that antique books are seen as almost elementary because this really paints a picture of the progress that people have made when it comes to science or medicine.

But for others, it may be the timelessness of antique books that appeal to them. When you read the writings of ancient poets and philosophers you realize that people really haven’t changed much down through history.

And of course antique books can really tell a story about history that probably not many other items can. Older law books show how government and politics have shaped the history of some countries. Storybooks tell of what was important to people and how they would talk between themselves.

Many appreciate antique books because they’re a true tie to the past. Knowing that a bible is decades old makes you wonder who else touched it and read it on a regular basis. Having books that some philosopher actually wrote in is probably the best connection you’ll ever to that person.

So who might be interested in antique books? Usually those with a love of history and reading itself appreciate these items more than anyone. Many auctions have a separate set of bidding just for books, as there is a particular crowd of collectors that will be especially interested. Some law libraries may also want older editions for their shelves even if they are no longer relevant.

There are also many private collectors that specialize in bibles and other holy books and that are always on the lookout for something different and new to them. While some who are interested in the business shy away from antique books because they feel it’s not quite as “exciting” as the world of antique furniture or jewelry or as fun as antique toys and collectibles, they have quite a bit of value to those who are interested.

First editions of classics are always in demand even if not really old enough to be called “antique books” yet. A first edition signed copy of The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien recently went for $122 000 at auction so keep your eyes peeled when you are at your next garage sale!