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FAQ

Can you tell me how much my car, book, or sales literature is worth?

As a non-profit library and organization we do not give appraisals of items. For car appraisals, please visit a local appraiser. You can also find information on nadaguides.com, kbb.com, or pick up the newest edition of the Collector Car Price Guide.

Sales literature and books can also be priced by a local appraiser, or you can look at Ebay.com and search for your book or brochure. By clicking the “Completed Listings” box on the left sidebar menu, you can see the final price of similar items.

I’m writing a book/article. Can I publish images I receive from you?

If you use an image that you received from us, we ask that you credit us as a source. Please contact library staff for permission and our preferred verbiage to be used with the credit. If you are concerned about copyright we recommend you visit the US Copyright website and talk to a copyright lawyer with any concerns.

Is research with the library free?

The library is open and free to the public during our normal hours of operation. On-site research is free to anyone who visits. If you would like information concerning off-site research please visit our research page. Members of the AACA receive 2 hours of free off-site research per calendar year to be used within the calendar year. Non-members are subject to additional fees.

Can the library help me find my vehicle’s ownership or registration history?

If your car has been registered with the AACA then there is a chance that we will be able to provide you with some information as it applies to AACA member ownership.

Unfortunately, we do not keep or have access to an exclusive database of every car’s owner throughout history.  With a VIN number we can generally tell information based on where the car was built and other vehicle specific details such as original engine, model, etc., but this does not tell us where the car was shipped to for it to be sold. To find vehicle owner history we would need a paper trail. There have been some cases where a local DMV can offer information.

Can I borrow materials from the library?

The AACA Library is a non-lending library. We do not check out or lend materials. The majority of our collection is part of a “closed stack” system from which staff will retrieve the items you ask for. However, our collection of reference books is open to the public for personal retrieval and perusal.

Why must I check my bags at the library desk?

The materials in our collection are very rare and valuable. Many of our holdings are irreplaceable. To avoid accidental losses or damage, we ask that purses, handbags, tote bags, briefcases, shopping bags, etc. are placed in the provided lockers prior to entering the library. Thank you for protecting our collection!