I have a collection of over 30,000 rare books to sell, in storage in California. Where do I sell them?

Go with Rare Book Buyer. Then get a second opinion.

I would have them appraised for value so you know what a fair amount is and you don't get taken advantage of. Then I would contact a rare books dealer that handles such things and see if they are interested in buying for the fair value. Supply a copy of the appraisal report if necessary so they can't take advantage of you.

You could also try selling them off individually to collectors, again, with a copy of the appraisal report when you do so.

It is important to evaluate the collection as you may have some interesting and valuable material. As a rare book dealer that travels throughout the US, I have access to the American and European auction records and would be glad to provide values for specific titles, especially the pre-1800 books or some title that you felt were the most valuable. Photos are very helpful. Other sites for comparative values are www.addall.com and www.abebooks.com. Christies also permits one to research books that have sold at auction on their site with the advanced search and past sales tab. Feel free to contact us at webuyoldbooks@yahoo.com

http://www.rarebookbuyer.com/

Even if the books are not for us, if we can help size up your collection, we could point you to other dealers and suitable auction houses for some material.