First, Second Story Books is owned by Allan Stypeck, noted book appraiser and antique and rare books dealer. He has appeared on PBS's Antiques Roadshow and Maryland Public Television's Chesapeake Collectibles. I have spoken with him on occasions and he has been, thoroughly, generous with his time and advice.
However, there is a DISCONNECT with his staff at both locations (Maryland and Washington, D. C.) The staff are, frankly, rude and show little interest to provide assistance when I have called to make inquiries.
Most importantly, I have submitted, on several occasions, books for a potential sale. The prices quoted to me were an insult and bordered on thievery - the staff being arrogant and not thinking I knew anything about rare and collectible books and their market value.
My advice is that - if you are dealing with an estate inheritance that has a large book collection or ephemera, OR, you have just one jewel of a book with potential value, do your research to know what the market value is and what percentage of the value you should expect. Also, contact reputable Auction houses for a possible evaluation; but, just do your due diligence to get at least THREE quotes from different dealers in your area or call others in a different state.
As stated, my experiences with Mr. Stypeck differs, vastly, with what I have encountered with staff members. I have determined never to deal with Second Story, unless it is with Mr. Stypeck.
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