Honest first look: 99 of every 100 home libraries aren't worth driving out for. I buy rarely — specific rare titles, or whole-collection cleanouts where the price works for both sides. Default for everything else: free NMLP pickup, any condition, statewide. Same number, same person. Start with a text of a few photos — honest yes or no in minutes.
Book appraisal

Free, no-pressure appraisal.

Not sure what your books are worth? We'll tell you honestly — no hidden math, no pressure to sell. Whether you inherited a library, cleaned out storage, or are downscaling, we'll evaluate and offer fair market value for anything with resale potential.

Our expertise

What Josh actually looks at.

  • Edition Statements & Points of Issue

    First edition designation, printing info, jacket presence, dust jacket condition. These details separate a $5 copy from a $500 copy.

  • Signed & Inscribed Books

    Author signatures add significant value. Personalized inscriptions usually reduce it. We grade both carefully and fairly.

  • Condition & Binding Integrity

    Spine condition, page yellowing, water damage, mold. We assess what lowers value and what makes a book unmarketable.

  • Rarity & Demand

    How many copies exist, how many are actually for sale, current market interest. Popular authors from 50 years ago often have limited resale value.

  • Provenance & Regional Interest

    New Mexico authors (Hillerman, Anaya, Silko), regional history, signed copies from local writers. Context matters for valuation.

Your parents' library might have more value than you think. We'll find it if it's there.

Josh Owner, SellBooksABQ
Reasons to call

When an appraisal makes sense.

After inheritance

You've inherited a library and don't know what's valuable. Before donating or selling individual books, get a full appraisal. Sometimes there's surprising value hiding in old collections.

Before donating

Before you drop a collection at Goodwill, let us evaluate it. If nothing's valuable, we still take it off your hands — kids' books to NMLP, the rest to the paper recycler ourselves. But you might leave money on the table by not asking first.

Estate settlement

Clearing out a parent's or relative's home? Books are often forgotten in the appraisal process. We can identify and value the collection quickly.

Before moving

Moving out of state or downsizing? Know what your books are worth before you decide whether to ship them or sell them locally.

Storage unit clean-out

Books have been sitting in storage for years. Get a quick appraisal to know if there's value worth extracting or if they're best donated.

Downsizing

You've outgrown your collection. Find out what the valuable titles are worth before letting them go, so you can make an informed decision.

The appointment

What to expect.

Before You Call

Gather your books in one place if possible. Have a rough count ready. Text or email Josh photos of the shelves — he'll give you a preliminary assessment before scheduling the in-person appraisal.

During the Appraisal

Josh arrives with a truck, sorts through your collection, and grades each valuable title. For first editions and signed books, he uses real-time market data. The process typically takes 1–2 hours depending on collection size.

The Offer

Josh makes a fair offer for material with resale value. You're under zero obligation to sell. If you decline, the kids' books go to NMLP, the rest we'll recycle ourselves — nothing ever hits the landfill. If you approve, cash in hand same day.

Important

The appraisal we do isn't IRS documentation.

Josh's appraisal is a purchase-offer evaluation — he tells you what he will pay for your books. This is NOT a formal appraisal for IRS tax deductions, insurance, or estate documentation.

If you need an official appraisal for tax or insurance purposes, that requires a certified appraiser and formal documentation. However, Josh can refer you to professionals who do that work if you need it.

Get started

Request an appraisal.

Tell us about the books you want appraised. Rough count, condition, any first editions or signed copies. We'll usually get back to you within the hour.

or call now
702-496-4214

Mon–Sat · 9am–6pm · Text anytime

Clear photos help us prepare for the appraisal.

No spam, ever. We only use your info to get back to you about this request.

Sister Site • Same Owner, Same Warehouse

Don't Want to Sell? Donate Instead.

Books I can't pay cash for — or that you'd rather just give away — get donated right here through the New Mexico Literacy Project. Same warehouse, free 24/7 drop-off, or I'll pick up for you. Nothing to the landfill.

Donate Instead →

Not sure? Read "Should I Sell or Donate My Books?" — the honest answer →