Have a Question?
We’ve gathered together answers to common questions about MARBL collections and services on this page so you can get a quick answer.
Caring for and appraising books
How do I determine the value of my books?
Appraising books requires specialized knowledge. Appraisers charge for their services and fees vary. The Rare Books and Manuscript Section of the American Library Association provides helpful guidance for evaluating books. To find an appraiser, search:
- The website for the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America (ABAA)
- The yellow pages of the telephone directory under headings such as “appraisers”, “book dealers – used and rare”
How should I care for and preserve my books?
The American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works has web versions of its brochures on the care and handling of books and artifacts. You are welcome to contact the Emory University Libraries Preservation Office to discuss possible conservation options for your books. Ann Frellsen, the Book and Paper Conservator, may be reached by email.
Donating archives and manuscripts to an archives
What do I need to know if I am considering donating my family papers or organizational records to an archives?
The Society of American Archivists has good general guidance for individuals and organizations considering donating their papers to an archives.
- A Guide to Donating Your Personal or Family Papers to a Repository
- A Guide to Donating Your Organizational Records to a Repository
Particular Collections
How can I get copies of images in Allen-Littlefield Collection of Lynching Photographs?
The lynching images belonging to Jimmy Allen and John Littlefield were on deposit at Emory University for several years to facilitate their use by researchers. The images are now back in the possession of Mr. Allen. The official website for the collection is http://withoutsanctuary.org. Many of the images were published in the book Without Sanctuary: Lynching Photography in America.
