Before diving into literary works and authors, I’ve decided to write up a quick “how-to” for anyone who wants to build their library with me. Here is what I could come up with.
Step 1: Determine your interest.
What do you want in your library? Are there specific authors you enjoy? Specific genres or subjects?
Step 2: Decide your format:
Do you need books with Large Print text? Do you need braille? If you have a hard time reading due to ADHD, dyslexia, general reading comprehension problems, vision problems or lack of vision entirely, would an audio book work better for you?
Step 3: Define your preferences:
Do you prefer hardback or paperback books, abridged or unabridged? Do you care if the book is new or used?
Step 4: Devise your space:
Do you have many shelves to fill, or just one? Would you prefer to have all your books in one place, or is it OK to have them scattered throughout the house? If you would like more space then you have, what to you need before you start your book collection?
Step 5: Determine your budget:
This is as much about how much money you have, as well as how much money you want to spend on something. Books can be an investment, but you need to make your investment rules ahead of time. If you are only interested in 1st editions, signed copies, leather-bound Books, or collectors edition books, these items can cost you, but if your clever and resourceful you can also save a ton of money.
For example, affordable First Editions are easy to come by if you invest in new writers, and sometimes these new writers will sign a handful of their books to help sell copies. Thrift outlets and independent resalers like mom and pop virtual garage sales on eBay, are also another good way to find rare books as staff or individuals may be more concerned with unloading their copy of say ‘Moby Dick’ than acquiring full value for it.
Step 6: Know your authors:
If I’ve learned anything in 2020, it’s that politics is everywhere and everyone has an opinion about everything, and your favorite authors are no exception. So before you decide to buy the latest copy or get that book signed, it might be worth finding out if you respect the person who is signing it and if you are OK with supporting them financially. If not, you might want to skip the signature line and buy used instead.
I hope this helps. More posts on the way!