Bookworms, rejoice! The Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair returns this November. The fair assembles the top 100 rare book dealers from 7 countries and 19 states. Dealers visit from all over the U.S. plus Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Italy, Netherlands, Serbia, the UK to exhibit an alluring treasure trove of books, maps, illustrations, and ephemera!
The fair is sponsored by the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America (ABAA)’s New England Chapter. The 46th annual Boston fair commemorates the 75th Anniversary of ABAA, so anticipate a series of special events to honor the milestone!
Prices range from the millions to the eminently affordable. Whether immaculately preserved or intriguingly weathered, each item tells its own story.
You’ll find incredibly rare books, in different price ranges, across all genres. Find titles on art, politics, travel, cooking, science, sport, natural history, first editions, Americana, fashion, music, children’s books, and much more. Explore this year’s full list of exhibitors.
Highlights at the book fair include two rare finds at Whitmore Rare Books from Pasadena, California—located at BOOTH 505. They’re bringing the first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, of which only 500 copies were ever created. Their pristine copy is valued at $225,000.
Whitmore Rare Books also brings a rare copy of Shakespeare, the fourth folio, the last of the 17th-century editions of Shakespeare’s works valued at $190,000! These are some incredibly rare finds, but there will also be just as impressive pieces below $100.
“We are thrilled to be capping off a year-long celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the ABAA in Boston,” says Julie Roper, CEO of Capricorn Event Management, LLC, who has managed the Boston Book Fair since 2015. “This milestone year marks a significant evolution of the organization, characterized by a shift in the diversity of its membership and the material it promotes. Notably in Boston, there has been an increase in women ABAA dealers and a younger, more diverse audience at the Fair, reflecting an ongoing and longtime commitment to fostering growth.”
Whether hunting as a collector, bookworm, or simply looking for treasure, the “Discovery” curation offers gems at prices of $100 or less. Get ready to discover the next gem for your library…or bank account!
Find the Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair:
When:
Friday, November 8 (4-8 PM) $25 entry ticket required
Saturday, November 9 (12-7 PM) Free admission
Sunday, November 10 (11 AM- 4 PM) Free admission
Where:
Hynes Convention Center (Hall A), 900 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02115