Well, MileHiCon went well, altho’ attendance was light (previous thread). We made a few bucks and learned a lot–as learning experiences go it was excellent.
Now we’re considering the Reno WorldCon. Costs are high–$250 for a table, $360 for 2 memberships (required)–so in the hope that I can make a rational decision about it, I’m wondering if anyone could supply a few WAGS:
a) how many book dealers will be there
b) what the average minimum book price will be (if you follow me)
c) what sort of mark-up from normal prices will be typical? Example: on bookfinder Heinlein/Friday hardcover autographed is going for a minimum of $400. I figure it would be more at the Con, but how much more? $450? $500?
a. A Worldcon has a lot of dealers; the last North American con, Anticipation, had nearly 50. Not all are book dealers, though. You can go over the list and get an rough idea – it should be similar for Renovation. You can find similar information on old Worldcon web pages.
b. I’m not sure what you mean. Are these used books or new? Collectors book? New books are sold at cover price, of course, with some discounts here and there. Used books are sold at prices comparable to any sued book stores. I’ve seen paperback for as little as $3 and hardcovers for half the cover price.
c. Books are usually sold at about the same price you’d sell them in any bookstore. Attendees know the value and if they can pick up the book from eBay for less, they’ll go to ebay (or Amazon.com). You can try charging more, but there’s no telling if anyone will bite. OTOH, if you can sell for less, then you could do pretty well.