Thinking of collecting books? Here's how to start your own literary treasure hunt
There’s something magical about holding a book that’s been read, loved, passed down, or perhaps forgotten and then rediscovered. For some, that spark turns into a collection — not just of books, but of stories behind the books. The good news? You don’t need to be a millionaire or a literary expert to start collecting. You just need to start with what you love.
Why collect books?
People are drawn to book collecting for all sorts of reasons. Some love the feel and smell of older books — the texture of cloth-bound covers or the patina of time-worn pages. Others are fascinated by history or the craftsmanship of printing and illustration. A book can be an object of beauty, a piece of cultural memory, or a snapshot of a moment in time.
And then there’s the thrill of the hunt — the joy of discovering a rare edition, a forgotten gem, or a book you loved as a child that you’d almost forgotten existed.
You don’t need to be rich or an expert
One of the biggest myths about book collecting is that it’s only for the wealthy or the academic elite. Not true. Many passionate collectors started out by spending a few pounds at charity shops or book fairs.
You don’t need to know everything — in fact, the learning is part of the fun. Ask questions, explore, make mistakes. That’s how you find your way.
What should you collect?
Start with what you love.
There’s no single ‘right’ way to collect books. The best place to start is with what excites you. That might be:
A favourite author: Perhaps you love Daphne du Maurier, Graham Greene or Beatrix Potter.
A theme or genre: Crime fiction, natural history, 20th-century poetry, local history, or feminist literature.
A publisher or era: Think early Penguin paperbacks, Virago Modern Classics, or Victorian bindings.
Illustrated books: Especially by famous illustrators or with beautiful woodcuts or lithographs.
Oddities and quirks: Books with inscriptions, marginalia, or curious provenance.
Some collectors focus on a specific period; others go for cover design, typography, or simply what looks good on a shelf. You’re the curator of your own little literary museum.
Where to find books to collect
There are treasures to be found in many places:
Book fairs like the Bath Book Fair are brilliant — you’ll meet specialist sellers, handle rare items, and ask questions.
Second-hand bookshops often have well-curated shelves and staff who can guide you.
Charity shops and car boot sales can yield brilliant surprises.
Online platforms like AbeBooks or eBay offer convenience, but be wary of condition and authenticity.
Don’t forget to tell friends and family you’re collecting — you may be offered fascinating books from lofts and attics!
The thrill of the hunt
Part of the joy of collecting is the unexpected. You may set out looking for a 1930s travel book and come home with a 1960s first edition cookbook you didn’t even know you wanted. Scarcity adds excitement, but what matters most is personal meaning. If a book gives you that little jolt of joy or interest, it’s worth picking up.
How to know what something is worth
Value is shaped by edition, condition, rarity, and demand. But price isn’t everything. You might treasure a dog-eared paperback with a childhood dedication more than a pristine first edition.
Booksellers are usually happy to share insights — especially if you’re curious and respectful. Don’t be afraid to ask, ‘Why is this one special?’
Collecting books is personal. Whether you’re drawn to miniature children’s books, maps of forgotten cities, or political pamphlets, your collection will become a reflection of your interests, your journey, and your unique eye. It’s about building something meaningful — one page at a time.
So next time you pass a book fair or a dusty shelf in a second-hand shop, stop and browse. Your first treasure might be waiting.
PBFA Bath Book Fair
When: Friday 27 June (12pm–6pm) & Saturday 28 June (10am–4pm)
Where: Bath Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bathwick, Bath, BA2 4EU
Entry: Just £2