Secondstorybooks

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.