Bev

[quote=b.zang]Recently I borrowed this book from the library and loved it so much I just had to find my own copy. The book is out of print but Amazon marketplace had some, so I ordered from the dealer who advertised all proceeds to the Red Cross for Haiti relief. The listing said -good condition.

Could they have sent me the wrong book? I received a book in virtually brand new condition. On the flyleaf, handwritten, is this message: "This is the official first copy off the press won in a drawing of pre-purchasers held at the book launch, November 18, 1996 at the Vancouver Public Library." There's more, then the author's name and signature. HOLY COW!!!


As a librarian (retired) I can tell you that when we attend these types of things we are given all sorts of books, always first editions because the publishers want the librarians to see them first and then recommend them to their patrons, and most of all purchase them for their libraries. Then when you get home from these conferences/special events, you look over all the books you've gotten and decide which ones you really don't want. In my case those books always went to the library I worked at, but many other people gave them as gifts, or to friends. This one obviously ended up with someone who never wanted it in the first place, so just donated it to a worthy organization.

wraez

Wow, what a great find! Libraries (especially Friends of the Library groups) get lots of amazing donations. Some go on the library shelves for circulation and others are sold at great prices. Whoever got this book on quilting was not a quilter and didn't appreciate what a wonderful book it was.

That is where YOU benefit! Congrats.

warm quilt hugs, sue in CA

adrianlee

How super for you to get this treasure. I'm a retired librarian and the libraries would get donations of books. A fellow who passed away, his family donated several boxes of very old books. I told my little crew to DO NOT to anything to these books until I have a look at them and review them. When I got back, one of the gals thought she would do me a favor and she STAMPED all the books. There were several old editions from 1880's. The bindings were in fairly good shape and they would have been worth $$ but since they were then property stamped, their value went out the door. The little worker meant well, we had a little sit-down and a lesson in taking direction and also in value of some books. Another time, a donation came in, it made it to my desk. When I was inspecting the book, here was a bookmark, a $50 bill. I called the fellow who had brought in the box of books and asked him to return to the library. He came, I asked about the book, yes, it had belonged to his uncle who had passed on. I told him, well, I think you might want to keep his bookmark. He was so surprised and thanked me for calling him. This man was between jobs and the money came just at the right time for him. Yes, Amazon does offer great buys in books. Hubby and I have bought several books from them. Used books in almost new condition.

DebJ

You probably don't want to write in it because it might devalue it. However, that doesn't mean you can not include a paper note telling your story for future owners to appreciate. I personally would say your lucky I say your Blessed with what I refer to as a "Happy".

zz-pd

That is so neat, what a treasure you have. enjoy it. Penny

Tallulah

I am so happy for you! I buy books from Amazon Marketplace all the time. I get great deals on gently used books. Love it.

b.zang

There are some really lovely book stories here. As a person who loves books nearly as much as quilting (hmm, they might be equal), all these stories have been a real pleasure to read.

Gail, I almost feel like I should send you this book, since you truly have a personal connection to it! I would love to take a course from any one of the quilters in this book! It's the first book I have ever looked at that showed new methods and made me think - "hey, I could do that!"

Here's a great quote:
"No one should feel guilty about not finishing things started in a workshop, because knowledge is a goal in itself".