Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Morocco Leather • Quarter Bound • Frontispiece

Copyright Page

Term from Rare Book Dealing industry explained for recruiters

A Copyright Page is an essential part of a book that contains important publishing information, usually found at the beginning of the book. For rare book dealers and collectors, this page is crucial as it helps determine a book's edition, printing date, and authenticity. It's like a birth certificate for a book, containing details such as the year of publication, publisher information, and printing history. When mentioned in resumes, it typically refers to the ability to analyze and understand these pages to determine a book's value and authenticity. Other common names for this include "title verso," "publication page," or "printer's key page."

Examples in Resumes

Expertly evaluated Copyright Page details to authenticate first editions

Used Copyright Page analysis to identify rare printings and valuable editions

Trained staff in Copyright Page examination techniques

Cataloged collection using Title Verso identification methods

Typical job title: "Rare Book Dealers"

Also try searching for:

Antiquarian Bookseller Rare Book Specialist Book Appraiser Antiquarian Book Dealer Rare Book Cataloger Book Authentication Specialist

Where to Find Rare Book Dealers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine if a book is a true first edition using the copyright page?

Expected Answer: A senior dealer should explain the various indicators like printing numbers, dates, publisher marks, and how these vary by publisher and era. They should also mention common pitfalls and misconceptions in first edition identification.

Q: What are the key differences in copyright pages across different publishing eras?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of how copyright pages evolved over time, including changes in formatting, information included, and printing methods used in different historical periods.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements do you look for when authenticating a copyright page?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss basic authentication elements like paper quality, printing methods, publisher's marks, and common signs of tampering or modification.

Q: How do you use the copyright page to price a rare book?

Expected Answer: Should explain how different elements on the copyright page (edition, printing, date) affect book value, and how this information combines with other factors in pricing.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic information can be found on a copyright page?

Expected Answer: Should list essential elements like publication date, publisher name, printing number, copyright holder, and ISBN if applicable.

Q: Why is the copyright page important in rare book dealing?

Expected Answer: Should explain that the copyright page helps determine a book's edition, authenticity, and value by providing crucial publication information.