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The following is a list of books and articles to help you learn more about antiques in general, to help you in determining value of what you own or would like to purchase, to inspire you in collecting, and to help you display those collections once they are begun.

Miller's Pocket Antique Fact File by Judith and Martin Miller; One of two books I carry with me when buying. It has a thumb nail coverage on almost everything, A chart on periods and styles, so you can keep your monarchs in order, silver hallmarks, and hundreds of other useful pieces of information.

Miller's Pottery & Porcelain Marks by Gordon Lang. This is the second book I carry with me when buying. Although the Antique Fact File has a section on marks, this book is much more detailed and shows how the mark has changed over time, so you can really be quite specific when determining age.

Kovels' Antiques and Collectibles Price List A new one comes out every year and that alone makes it very useful. You can follow the increase or fall in value of whatever it is you want to collect. And if you're wondering if the asking price is too high, you can look it up and get a ball park figure. The prices in the book are considered "average", meaning there will be higher and lower based on condition and rarity. The Kovels' say their book is meant to be taken to shows and auctions, but I personally have found it much to heavy to carry around. Keep your old ones, they are a great reference guide.

The Bulfinch Guide to Carpets A valuable tool in learning about Oriental carpets and in helping to determine the region and age of a rug. A must if you are going to buy rugs at auction or retail. Does not give values.

Popular Quimper by Ann Marie O'Neill. If you like Quimper and would like to learn about its history, how to determine age, and a ball park value for a piece, this is the book for you.

20th Century Linens and Lace A guide to Identification, Care and Prices of Household Linens. By Elizabeth Scofield and Peggy Zalamea . This book covers the linens you and I will come across at Antique shows and Flea Markets. It tells everything from the history to how to care for the pieces. A valuable book for those who love linens.

Historical Staffordshire American Patriots and Views. By Jeffrey Snyder. A wonderful book on the history and value of this transferware. Beautiful photos, and great coverage of the many factories which produced these pieces.

Antique and Flea Markets of London and Paris by Rupert Thomas and Egle Salvy. A MUST HAVE if you are planning on antiquing in either of these cities.

Mary Emmerling's American Country Details. A book that stimulates the creative juices. How to arrange collections, creating atmosphere with different arrangements. You can look at what Mary Emmerling has done and adapt it to your home or take it one step further.

A Passion for Collecting, Decorating with Your Favorite Objects by Caroline Clifton-Mogg. A book to study and think about. It will definitely stimulate your own "AH-HA" moment.

American Farmhouses, Country Style and Design. By Leah Rosch and Keith Scott Morton. A truly inspirational book on American country style homes and decor.

Comfortable Country, Peaceful Homes Inspired by the Country By Enrica Stabile. Great name for the book. Will give you many ideas on how to create a livable country decor.

New French Country A Style and Source Book by Linda Dannenberg. A great book full of inspiring pictures by the woman who coauthored "Pierre Deux's French Country". Sources are listed in the back.