Book or library stamps represent ownership stamps, which, particularly in public library instances, would likely reduce its value and decrease its worth.
Book stamps (commonly known as library stamps) are rubber stamps used to identify books as belonging to libraries. A typical design shows the library’s name and address and the date it was acquired. At the same time, other options feature names of donors or logos to identify individual books belonging to a collection.
Library stamps can help maintain ownership records for books while deterring theft, identify books needing repairs or replacement, and, in certain instances, signal that one has been restricted or prohibited from circulation.
Most libraries require that books be returned identical to when they were checked out – this includes any writing, underlining, highlighter marks, or any other markings not made by them. Furthermore, libraries will often not permit books with library stamps to be donated or sold as donations or sales items.
Some book collectors enjoy amassing books marked with unusual library stamps as a fun and rewarding way of increasing their book collections.
Stamps add value and serve several functions in books and publishing for many reasons, from cataloging purposes to helping deter theft or damage by potential thieves to adding provenance and history that makes books more desirable to potential buyers or collectors – book and library stamps play multiple vital roles that make publishing possible.
