An interview with Les Livres The Books .Com
Biblio checks in with Les Livres The Books .Com 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?
Back in the late 70s and through the 80s,and early 90s I used to scout and sell /trade books to used and rare bookstores. Later I would sell through AB Bookmans Weekley, and with the onset of the Internet, started selling online in the 90s. I've also worked at new and used bookstores through the years.
What drew you to bookselling?
I've loved books since I was a kid. But didn't often have any money to buy books, so I discovered early on that I could trade my books in to used bookstores for different ones. That was the beginning :).
Did you have any mentors in becoming a bookseller?
Numerous people over the years have helped. Since I used to scout for used and rare bookstores I was able to get a good idea of what was wanted, and sought after. They also introduced me to to the Zemple price guides and the Ahearns books. How to identify firsts editions, conditions and a wealth of other information.
What are your specialties as a dealer?
I Specialize in Occult, New Age, Astrology, Tarot, Metaphysics, Wicca, Religion, Eastern religion and philosophy, Art, Psychology, Philosophy, Fantasy,Sci-Fi,the Obscure and unusual. Also do Music CDS, Movies, Software and games.
What's the most amazing book you've ever sold?
All of them!
What is your favorite part of being a bookseller?
Meeting like minded people. Discovering great books at yard sales and other places is also fun.
Do you have an open storefront or have you in the past?
I did for awhile, but had to close in the early 2000s.
If so, do/did you have any bookstore pets?
No, we didn't.
What do you personally like to read? Collect?
Occult, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Scholarly Religion books, eastern philosophy and Buddhism. "How to" computer and computer art books and tutorials. Most anything unusual.
What's your favorite book you personally own? Would you sell it, if the price were right?
"Secret Teachings of All Ages" and "Words to the Wise" by Many P Hall, "The Kybalion" by Three Initiates, Numerous others, but no, wouldn't sell those 2...but I have had have several copies that I have sold over the years.
What one book would you buy if price were no object?
Can't think of one ATM...I have so many now LOL!
If you were stranded on a desert island and could bring three books, what would they be?
"Secret Teachings of All Ages" and "Words to the Wise" by Many P Hall, "The Kybalion" by Three Initiates
