Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Conservation • Numbered Copy • Fair

Title Page

Term from Rare Book Dealing industry explained for recruiters

A Title Page is the main identifying page at the beginning of a book that contains essential information like the book's name, author, publisher, and year of publication. In rare book dealing, the condition and presence of the title page is crucial because it helps determine a book's authenticity, edition, and value. Think of it as a book's birth certificate - without it, or if it's damaged, the book's value can decrease significantly. When job candidates mention title pages in their resumes, they're typically referring to their experience in examining, authenticating, or cataloging valuable books.

Examples in Resumes

Inspected and authenticated Title Pages for over 500 pre-1800 volumes

Created detailed catalog entries based on Title Page analysis and bibliographic details

Restored damaged Title Pages and Title Leaves in 17th-century manuscripts

Typical job title: "Rare Book Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Rare Book Dealer Antiquarian Book Specialist Book Conservator Rare Book Cataloger Rare Book Librarian Antiquarian Bookseller Book Authentication Specialist

Where to Find Rare Book Specialists

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you determine the authenticity of a title page from the 17th century?

Expected Answer: A senior specialist should discuss examining paper quality, printing methods, watermarks, typography styles of the period, and cross-referencing with established bibliographies. They should also mention tools and techniques used for authentication.

Q: What factors would you consider when pricing a rare book with a damaged title page?

Expected Answer: Should explain how title page condition affects value, comparison with other copies in the market, historical significance of the work, and overall market demand. Should mention documentation and reference sources used.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What information do you typically record when cataloging a title page?

Expected Answer: Should mention author, title, publisher, date, edition statement, printer's marks, dedications, and any unique characteristics. Should also discuss standard cataloging formats and importance of accuracy.

Q: How do you identify different editions of a book using the title page?

Expected Answer: Should explain looking for variations in text, dates, publisher information, and typography. Should mention using bibliographic references and databases for verification.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic elements of a title page?

Expected Answer: Should list main components: title, author, publisher, date, edition information, and printer's information. Should understand their importance in book identification.

Q: How do you properly handle and examine a title page?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic handling procedures, use of book cradles, clean hands/gloves, proper lighting, and careful page turning techniques.