Michael,
I find a "used" book much more interesting when I can see who has leafed
through it before me.  Who has seen an inscription "To Felix, from your
Dearest Anna, on our Anniversary" and not wanted to know more about the
couple; or simply a name like "Alice Warner" and not wondered who she was,
why she obtained the book, and more importantly why she let it go?  I too,
leave my mark on each of my books, simply so they come back to me if I lend
them out.  If you are concerned about the book's value, write it in pencil
-- it can always be gently erased.  Of course, if I'm going to catch up
with the rest of the bookworms on this list, I won't be selling any of my
volumes soon!

-----Original Message-----
From: mflynch <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
<[log in to unmask]>
Date:    Wed, 27 Jan 1999 22:42:28 -0500

>Here's another question for all you bibliophiles.  Do you write your name
>and/or any other information in the book?  I've been told by dealers that
>once you write your name in the book, it reduces its value on the rare/used
>book market (unless of course you become famous and die).  I like to "brand"
>each of my books with name, date purchased, location purchased, and price.
>And I intend on becoming famous!!