eBay For Dummies

September 1, 2004
Books on eBay remain popular, as readers dream of raking in Internet riches, clearing out their attics, or feeding their own collections (see also Computer Media, LJ 6/1/03). As the site continues to evolve, and add-on tools and techniques gain acceptance, libraries need to invest in updated guides. For beginners, Dummies and How To both competently cover the basics of buying and selling, including tips for winning auctions, garnering (and interpreting) feedback, and successfully completing sales. How To includes an amusing insert on "The Wackiest eBay Sales Ever," while Dummies features "Ten (Or So) Golden Rules" that nicely summarizes the basics of effective eBay interactions. Both are appropriate for all public libraries. For intermediate users, Timesaving describes 65 seller-specific techniques, from efficient searching to creating an effective "About Me" page. Although it does repackage some information from Dummies, most of the content is fresh. Descriptions also go deeper, and step-by-step instructions and plentiful screen shots help clarify material. A good purchase for medium and larger libraries. PowerUser's Bible delves a bit deeper into eBay's history and supplies more in-depth explanations. Chapter summaries, tips, notes, sidebars, cross references, appendixes, and screen shots add value. A nice troubleshooting section provides more thorough and reassuring explanations than found elsewhere. The title's sheer bulk may intimidate beginners, but tips are clear enough for all readers. For larger libraries.

Copyright 2004 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.