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Re: Sample RFP for appraisals



Hi:

As one who has done hundreds of institutional appraisals,
I wanted to briefly comment on this.

In my experience, RFP's for appraisals do not serve the institution very
well.
They frequently impose a structure that is not effectively focused on
answering the questions that are most relevant to evaluating the
collection... and they often require essentially unnecessary activities
that needlessly increase the costs of the appraisal.

A much better course is to work closely with a expert professional who
has long experience with the kinds of materials under consideration.

I understand that not everyone is aware such professionals.

Though not every member of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of
America (ABAA) or Professional Autograph Dealers Association (PADA) is
really a qualified and efficient institutional collection appraiser -
their members can often refer you to individuals and firms that will be
helpful in a particular instance.  Nearby librarians and archivists may
also have helpful advice.  Specific queries to lists such as this should
also develop valuable suggestions.

Some people have established national reputations as collection
appraisers.  The late Lee Ash made this a specialty.  Over the past
three decades I trust that I have built a name for expert appraisal
services (which can also include, in addition to the expected monetary
evaluations, advice on conservation, preservation, security, collection
development, etc.).

On an individual basis, I'd be pleased to expand on this topic further,
and/or advise those seeking appraisals.

Hope this is helpful.

Ron

--
Ron & Isabel Lieberman
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