Board
In rare book dealing, "Board" refers to the hard covers of a book, which are crucial elements in determining a book's condition and value. These are the stiff, flat pieces typically made of cardboard or wood that form the front and back covers of hardbound books. When dealers mention "boards" in descriptions or job contexts, they're talking about assessing, repairing, or preserving these essential protective elements of valuable books. Understanding boards is fundamental because their condition directly impacts a book's worth and collectibility.
Examples in Resumes
Expertly assessed condition of Board, Boards, and Original Boards on 17th-century volumes
Supervised restoration projects focusing on Board repair for rare first editions
Cataloged collection of 200+ antiquarian books, with detailed Boards condition reports
Typical job title: "Rare Book Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Rare Book Specialists
Professional Associations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine if a book's boards are original and what impact does this have on valuation?
Expected Answer: A senior specialist should explain how to identify period-appropriate materials, binding styles, and wear patterns. They should discuss how original boards can significantly increase a book's value and explain how to document and communicate this to clients.
Q: What considerations do you make when deciding whether to restore original boards versus replacing them?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of preservation ethics, discuss evaluation of historical significance, market value implications, and ability to balance conservation needs with maintaining authenticity.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Describe common board conditions you encounter and how you document them.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain various types of wear, damage, and period-specific characteristics, and demonstrate knowledge of standard condition reporting terminology and grading systems.
Q: How do you handle books with detached or loose boards?
Expected Answer: Should explain proper handling techniques, temporary stabilization methods, and when to refer to conservation specialists. Should also discuss how to communicate condition issues to clients.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic terms used to describe book boards and their conditions?
Expected Answer: Should know fundamental terminology like 'boards', 'binding', 'spine', and be able to describe basic condition issues like 'bumped corners', 'worn', or 'detached'.
Q: How do you safely handle and store books with fragile boards?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic handling procedures, proper support techniques, and understanding of environmental factors that can affect board condition.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic book handling and examination
- Understanding of board types and materials
- Simple condition assessment
- Basic terminology knowledge
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed condition reporting
- Period-specific board identification
- Basic conservation awareness
- Value assessment based on board condition
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert condition assessment
- Conservation decision-making
- Market value determination
- Training and supervision of staff
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to identify basic board types and materials
- Careless handling of fragile materials
- Lack of knowledge about proper storage conditions
- No understanding of conservation ethics
- Poor documentation practices
Related Terms
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