Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Restoration • Condition Grade • Watermark

Gathering

Term from Rare Book Dealing industry explained for recruiters

Gathering is a fundamental term in the rare book trade that refers to a group of pages that have been folded together from a single large printed sheet. When describing books, especially antique or rare ones, understanding gatherings helps determine a book's completeness and condition. Think of it like checking if all pieces of a puzzle are present. Book dealers use this knowledge to accurately assess, price, and describe books for sale. Similar terms you might see include "quires," "signatures," or "folded sections."

Examples in Resumes

Performed detailed condition assessments of over 500 rare books, including Gathering analysis

Trained junior staff in identifying complete Gatherings in 17th-century publications

Created detailed catalog entries noting Gathering structures for auction house listings

Typical job title: "Rare Book Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Antiquarian Book Dealer Rare Book Cataloguer Book Conservator Manuscript Specialist Rare Book Librarian Book Collection Manager

Where to Find Rare Book Specialists

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you determine if a rare book's gatherings are complete when cataloging?

Expected Answer: A senior specialist should explain the process of checking signature marks, examining the binding structure, and using bibliographic references to verify completeness. They should mention tools and methods for documenting findings.

Q: How do different gathering structures affect book valuation?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how gathering patterns can help date and authenticate books, identify first editions, and explain how missing or damaged gatherings impact value. Should mention regional and historical variation in gathering methods.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are common problems you might find when examining book gatherings?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe issues like missing pages, incorrect folding, water damage, and explain how these affect book condition and value.

Q: How do you document gathering information in catalog entries?

Expected Answer: Should explain standard terminology and formats for describing gatherings in catalogs, including notation methods and important details to include.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain what a gathering is in basic terms?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that gatherings are folded groups of pages that make up a book's structure, and describe how to identify them.

Q: What basic tools do you use to examine gatherings?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic equipment like magnifying glasses, good lighting, and reference materials, explaining their use in basic gathering examination.