The Friends of the NIU Libraries organization is hosting its second annual Book Appraisal Fair on Sunday.

Lynne Thomas, head of Rare Books and Special Collections for University Libraries, said one reason why people may want to attend is the potential to discover they own a valuable book.

“Last year, someone bought a box of books at a yard sale for $1,” Lynne said. “A first edition of ‘Huckleberry Finn’ was part of the box and its value was appraised at $5,000.”

The two appraisers are Thomas Joyce of Thomas J. Joyce & Company and the Chicago Rare Book Center, and Bill Butts of Main Street Fine Books in Galena.

Thomas said many factors go into the appraisal of a book, so having a professional appraisal performed is essential to discovering a book’s true value.

Those who have a membership with the Friends of the NIU Libraries will be able to have three books appraised for free with each additional book appraisal costing $5, but a membership is not necessary to take part in the event.

Thomas said those who wish to become a member will be able to fill out a membership application at the event.

“Annual membership for students is only $10, which is what an appraisal will cost for non-members,” Thomas said.

While the potential for making money off of books is a motivator for attending, Thomas stated that more people come with an interest to learn more about a book they own.

“Often, people will bring a book passed down from a relative that they are curious about,” Thomas said. “The appraisers can tell them more about the author, publisher, specific edition and point out things which make it that edition.”

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