Collectors’ magazines are one of the most popular means to learn more about the field. These include titles such as Collectors News, Antiques & Collecting, Antique Trader, or Antiques & Collectibles Journal for general antiques and nostalgic collectibles coverage; M.I. Hummel Insights, Village D-Lights, and Precious Moments for specialized coverage on a single collectible brand; and Collector Editions for a roundup of news on modern collectibles.
Attending conventions and collectibles shows is another way for a collector to familiarize him or herself with the possibilities. These shows will often include seminars on a variety of subjects such as artists, companies, decorating with collectibles or how to insure a collection. For example, the NCC (National Council of 56 Clubs) has individual member clubs that host regional Gatherings each year for collectors of Department 56 lighted villages.
A collector may find and join a local club for people who collect plates or other limited edition items. Collector publications frequently list the location, date and time of club meetings as a service to new collectors. Collectors who have already narrowed their collecting horizons to the creations of a particular producer may want to join a club that focuses on this producer’s work.
A potential collector may wish to chat with collectors with similar interests in specialized forums via the Internet. Fellow collectors are usually very happy to share information with new collectors; this includes information about where they have been successful in acquiring their collectibles, where they have struggled and what they are looking for. Collectors’ forums are allow for an open exchange of information, sometimes with experts available to answer questions and offer guidance.
Learning from retailers and direct marketers is considered a great way to gain an education in collecting. Collectors may establish a relationship with a retailer that specializes in limited editions. Those on direct mail literature mailing lists can learn a great deal from the support that many dealers supply.

(source: http://en.wikipedia.org)