An interview with O.L.D. Books

Biblio checks in with O.L.D. Books to learn more about their book business, collecting interests and more! To view and shop their inventory, click here.

When did you get started in bookselling?

I was working as a cataloger at a university library. I also processed the book donations. After determining which books would be beneficial for us to have there were often quite a number that needed to be disposed of. My first acquisitions were from this source.

What drew you to bookselling?

I would often go on book buying trips with the library director and caught the bug visiting the various used book stores we had exchange/purchase agreements with.

Did you have any mentors in becoming a bookseller?

I would have to say Pioneer Books and Brigham Books and Copies in Provo, Utah. Also, one of the professors at the university was a bookseller for a number of years. Between the three I learned a lot. I have also learned a considerable amount on the sellers' forum at Amazon.

What are your specialties as a dealer?

I am heavy into wildlife and geology, especially the geology of the Inter-mountain West. I also have some holding on other topics as well.

What is your favorite part of being a bookseller?

Helping people find the books they want whether or not I make the sale.

Do you have an open storefront or have you in the past?

In 2007 and 2008 I was allowed to sell at the Provo (Utah) Farmers' Market. I would select about a hundred or so books each week and would usually sell about 10% each week. I sold all ofmy Civil War books and most of my World War II books that way.

If so, do/did you have any bookstore pets?

N/A

What is your favorite bookshop (other than your own)?

I really loved Brigham Book and Copies in Provo, Utah, when it was open. In Salt Lake City, Sam Weller's and Ken Saunders are the best.

What one book would you buy if price were no object?

A first edition (1830) Book of Mormon.