About Us
James Cahill, owner of Magnum Opus Rare Books has been selling rare books for over 35 years.
James Cahill is a rare book expert offering personalized service and years of knowledge of First Edition points to his customers. From the moment you contact Magnum Opus Rare Books, you will be dealing with him directly, and not an employee of the company. He has helped customers build their dream collection of books as well as finding that perfect gift for a loved one.
James’ discerning tastes for high quality books benefit his customers as they only receive beautiful copies of the books they purchase from him.
He takes pride in selling his customers books that may greatly appreciate over time and his inventory is mostly made up of the high spots of the classics of Literature.
Many of James’ customers have become long time friends, and one of them even became a best man at his wedding. He welcomes his customers to call him on the phone as he is happy to educate and guide them along their journey finding the books they love.
Whatever your interest may be, literary classics, children books, science fiction, important books of ideas, travel, SIGNED books, Harry Potter, etc…there’s a good chance you’ll find something here on this website, and if not, please contact him so he can help you find the book you are looking for.
Storing Rare Books
The traditional storage of books in an upright book shelf is usually ideal. Larger books may need to lay flat, however, do not stack them. This creates pressure that my hurt the book(s).
Transparent covers are a great way to protect the paper and covers, and any other exposed elements of the book. It is not ideal to wrap the books in bags due to potential moisture and mold damage.
If you are to use a bookshelf, the ideal location is away from sunlight and other sources of heat such as furnace ducts or heating/cooling elements. A consistent temperature is ideal and if possible, like wine, a cooler, but not higher humidity location is preferred; the lower 60 degrees is the ideal temperature to store books in a shelf. While homes tend to be in the upper 60s to lower 70s, these are within acceptable margins and most practical, Try to avoid extra humid or arid environments in the property.
Extra care should be taken when storing books near metal furnishing. Metal can easily scratch the book’s bindings.
The most precarious element of book making is the use of vellum. Drastic changes in the humidity and temperature of the room may cause the book covers to warp or bow. It is imperative to force the covers of the books to flatten. If there is warped or bowed covers, time will likely restore them. Should the issue not resolve properly, there are specialists that can improve and/or repair the book.