PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Philadelphia Rare Book and Fine Print Fair is back for its third year in a bigger venue with an expanded format. It’s a collector’s dream, but organizers want a fun, accessible experience for anyone interested in the world of rare books and prints.
Philadelphia long had a rare book fair, but it was discontinued before Edward Lemon and his wife Eve brought one back to the city in 2022 through their company Fine Book Fairs.
“We wanted to bring rare books and prints and historic documents,” Lemon said. “It’s such a historic city.”
Three years on, the third edition of the fair brings some 42 rare book and print collectors from around the world to the 23rd Street Armory in Center City. A number of them are from the Philly region, like Bruce McKittrick Rare Books in Narberth.“
“It’s really special to be in the community where we live and also be able to show our books,” said Nora, who works at the Narberth shop, which specializes in pre-1830 European books.
“I think there’s nothing that can [replace] holding something that has been held by many hands before and knowing you’re part of history and being able to handle it, and then also to learn from it — because you can learn so much.”
Her co-worker Irene also emphasized the hands-on experience of the fair.
“To be able to touch and see the actual objects, so it’s not behind glass in a case, in a museum, but it’s actually in your hands.”
Rhiannon, who also works at the store, said the fair was one-of-a-kind for its social aspect.
“It draws in people who are sort of curious about looking at rare books and maybe having a conversation and listening to music… it’s more of a full sensory experience.”
Another local collector among the bunch is Elizabeth Kelly-Griswold of Bluemango Books and Manuscripts in New Hope.
“I think it’s a great camaraderie, being with other booksellers who appreciate books and manuscripts,” she said. “Manuscripts are incredible pieces of history, and today I think it’s a lost art because you don’t see people doing a lot of journals, diaries, keeping things by hand. It’s all electronic.”
Lemon says introducing people to the world of rare books and prints is also what the fair in Philly is all about.
“What we want to do with our fairs is make a welcoming experience so everyone can go home with something.”
In addition to all the collectors, a number of panel discussions and speakers are also scheduled.
The fair is open Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. It’s $15 a ticket, $10 for college students, and free for anyone under 16.