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How to build your Aikido book collection

Posted by Clark Bateman on March 22nd, 2005

You are looking for a particular Aikido book. What are your options? This entry contains a few ideas. And please, you “veterans” of the book wars show some patience, because a lot of this is old news, but we must first indulge those new to the hobby (obsession?). And even though many of you will be collecting books only for the reading, I will still speak to the monetary value of books here, because a large library will cost more than you might think, especially if you go for the first editions, signed copies, or the really old stuff.

The normal channels (and most of the abnormal ones) center on the internet. Dealers, large and small, of new and used books can reach millions of potential buyers around the globe by joining one of the major listing services. These include Amazon, Abebooks, Alibris, Powell’s, and others. One that I have found quite useful is Bookfinder, because, unlike many of the others, they don’t actually sell or broker the books, but actually search the lists of the other listing services (and even Ebay auctions), without prejudice. And there are price comparisons for multiple hits, and links to each dealer that has published a listing.

A typical book listing will contain much valuable information. Be sure to note the condition of the book, whether it is hardback or soft-cover, the year of publication, and the location of the dealer who actually has the book. Often, the same copy can be found through more than one listing, and not necessarily at the same price, as the middlemen add their commissions to the price. Look for similar wording, and buy the cheapest one. Try to avoid international purchases, as overseas shipping can be very expensive, as well as wire transfers to foreign banks. Compare ISBN numbers where you can, because many dealers fracture the titles of books, creating the impression that it’s different from one you already have. Usually, hard and soft cover editions of the same book will have different ISBN numbers. Books printed before the early 70’s will have none at all. Also note whether the book has all its accessories. Hardback books are usually sold new with a dust jacket, and some even with a cardboard sleeve. If these are missing, the book is less valuable, and you should be able to get a better price. If prices are equal, go for the first editions, or ones with the jackets, or in better overall condition (duh…). Torn or missing pages, handwriting (especially ink), warped boards, broken spines, rounded corners and the like will all reduce the value of your collection, although they will also get you some bargain prices if you don’t mind. Book dealers are usually fair about indicating the overall conditions and specific defects in their listings.

Also note whether the book is signed by the author. Signed copies are usually going to cost you more than an unsigned copy, although many authors, such as Tohei Sensei, have signed thousands of books, making the signed ones less of a trophy, but still of some novelty value. For Japanese inscriptions, have a scan sent to you, and ask someone to translate. Remember, most dealers can’t read Japanese, and may think any kanji means it’s a signed copy. Try to avoid books that are ex-library, as they are often beat up, and always loaded with stickers, pockets, stamps, etc. both inside and out.

Also of concern are excessive packing and handling charges. I have often seen dealers who add ten or more dollars for “handling”. This is ridiculous, as you would expect them to have to “handle” their own merchandise. Media mail (USPS) is usually only a couple of bucks domestic, and how much can an envelope and some bubble wrap cost? Most dealers are reasonable, but some will get you good if you let them. It all becomes part of your total cost, which is the real number you want to compare with listings. It is also recommended that you spring for insurance, especially if it is an expensive item.

Another thing you should know about the listings is that they aren’t always right. You may order a book that someone else has already purchased, but the listing is still up. It just takes time for the paper trail to catch up. Other listings are simply 100% guano. For instance, there is a book listing turning up in many places where you can order ”The Ultimate Guide to Aikido” by John Little and Curtis Wong. This is part of the current “Inside Kung-Fu Martial Arts Series”. There are even pictures of the book in many listings. Most impressive, except that the publisher NEVER PRINTED IT, not even one copy. But you can still order it, and then your order will be cancelled for reasons of non-availability. And yet the dealers still refuse to take this listing off their sites. Reason: The publisher who never printed it won’t take it off THEIR site! Another classic example is the mysterious Aikido book by Saito Sensei, published in 1940. Not only would this be the earliest English-language Aikido book by 16 years, but Saito Sensei was twelve years old in 1940. Don’t trust everything you read, and don’t order anything you are not sure of.

Another good source for new, used and out of print books is eBay. You can often get lots with several good books with one bid, and occasionally an entire collection can be found there. I won’t get into the strategy of auction bidding here, but eBay is definitely a good source. Watch out for those inflated shipping and handling costs here, as well. It’s also a good idea to set up a PayPal account. It’s not just for eBay auctions, either, as many book dealers take PayPal payments for their regular purchases. It’s easy for international purchases, too, because the monetary conversions are handled automatically, and there are no bank transfer fees. PayPal also provides a buyer protection feature.

A martial arts specialty book dealer is also a good bet, because they have large selections of books keyed to your needs. Budovideos and Buyubooks are two excellent choices. And that’s not just for new books. Pre-owned copies of key pieces are often advertised on these sites.

If you have a taste for the really tough finds, you may try contacting the publishers directly, as some sell directly to the consumer. Sometimes with the newer books, the authors do their own marketing. You might also contact the authors of scarce and/or out of print books, as they might have a few copies lying around gathering dust. It doesn’t hurt to ask. If you are interested in signed books, many authors will sign your books if you ask. You could send the books to them for signing (ask them first), or you might catch up to them at a seminar (such as the Aiki Expo). Be polite, use good judgment and timing, and don’t be a pest. I don’t recommend that you send any really valuable pieces through the mail or freight. Do those in person.

The final resource you should consider is direct contact with others in the hobby. The best places to do this are the forums on the Aikido Journal and AikiWeb sites. The members may be able to point out where they’ve seen what you are looking for, or you might find someone who has the very book you need, and will sell it, or maybe trade it for something you have. We’re all in this together.

I can make one further suggestion. Know what you are looking for, and stick to it. If it’s only knowledge you seek, there are probably 30-40 quality books which contain the bulk of the written history and teachings of Aikido. Don’t chase all the books in print unless you are insane (I am), rich (I definitely am not), or have too much time on your hands (apparently, I do). Be patient and have fun!

Look for a future article with tips on how to care for and preserve your books.

[ Add Comment ]

Posted by Charlie Hsu on March 23rd, 2005 1:16pm

I'm glad you had a good experience with BookFinder.com. I run BookFinder.com, and also practice Aikido so it's great to see that something I'm doing is helping fellow aikidoka. I've used BookFinder.com myself to find a reading copy of Terry Dobson's "Giving in to get your way", which was recommended by my sensei and is apparently out of print.

If you have any comments or suggestions feel free to contact me, I'd love to hear from other aikidoka!

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