Participant Driven Session: Change in Relationship between Booksellers and Librarians

Participant Driven Session: Change in Relationship between Booksellers and Librarians

Sponsored by: Rare Book School at the University of Virginia

The relationship between special collections librarians and booksellers has evolved so much further than one of seller/buyer. Booksellers, formerly with an expertise narrowly focused in marketplace valuation, now must know the collections of their institutional customers, as well as have an idea of who is using the collections. With their dual knowledge of the market and institutional collections, booksellers have found themselves assisting with outreach, “exploring” unused parts of collections, participating in short- and long-term collection development, consulting on decisions of what should and should not remain in special collections, what to de-accession, and what to possibly trade to other institutions.
This session will explore many facets of this relationship, and the areas with which booksellers may be able to assist, support and work with special collections librarians. The panel including booksellers and librarians, will share their experience, and open the floor to everyone to express ideas, experience and thoughts.

Discussion Leaders:
Howard Rootenberg, B & L Rootenberg Rare Books & Manuscripts
Robin Rider, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Will Hansen, Newberry Library
Bruce McKittrick, Bruce McKittrick Rare Books