The Ann Arbor Antiquarian Book Fair Celebrates its 35th Anniversary
On Sunday, May 19th the Ann Arbor Antiquarian Bookdealers Association and the William L. Clements Library of the University of Michigan will host the 35th annual Ann Arbor Antiquarian Book Fair. Since 1976* the fair attracts book collectors, book dealers, and others that treasure the book from throughout the Midwest to Ann Arbor.
The fair will be held in the ballroom of the Michigan Student Union, 530 S. States St. in Ann Arbor. The hours are 11am to 5pm and there is a $5.00 donation requested that benefits the William L. Clements Library of the University of Michigan.
While some aspects of the book business have been in decline the Ann Arbor Antiquarian Book Fair has thrived. Attendance has steadily increased and the quality of exhibiting dealers continues to improve. Nearly a third of the exhibiting dealers are members of the prestigious Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America (ABAA). In this digital age many people, young and old, prefer the “feel” of a book and would rather see and touch a book before buying it. It is a great opportunity to talk with the exhibiting dealers and learn more about the fascinating world of books.
Of the 40 exhibiting dealers some come from as far as Virginia, Tennessee, Missouri, and Minnesota. Since the dealers will be bringing their most interesting titles, it has been quipped that on that day the book fair is the best book shop in the world.
Among the items featured this year will be first editions of Joseph Conrad, William Faulkner, Mark Twain in addition to collectible children’s books, fine leather bindings, modern poetry, Michigan history, travel & exploration, illustrated books, photography, antique maps, cookbooks, and books in many other subjects.
Also available will be University of Michigan yearbooks, ephemera, football programs, etc.
There will also be two of the Michigan’s finest bookbinders there to exhibit their handiwork and answer questions about book preservation and restoration.
For more information contact Jay Platt at 734-995-1891 or jplatt@provide.net. Also visit our website at annarborbookfair.com.
*The history of the fair is posted on our website.
