New York Is Book Country Fair

Over 18 used and antiquarian book dealers exhibited in this year’s 25th anniversary of New York is Book Country.

It is definitely a long, hard day, but reaps many rewards. With over 250,000 people attending this daylong street event, it’s a great way to reach out, cultivate the masses and introduce them to the world of used books, prints and maps.

There were over 200 exhibitors, including large publishing houses, small presses, libraries, cultural organizations and bookstores running along Fifth Avenue from 42nd to 57th Streets. For once, we were not relegated to a little side street, but were part of the main action on Fifth Ave.

Marvin Mondlin, member of the Appraisers Association of American and the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America, appraised books all day long.

ABE Books set up a table and gave out little bags of “branded” goodies, pencils, erasers and mints.

The weather was magnificent, cool and sunny. Business was as usual, and having ATMs on just about every block really helps with impulse buying!

Shirley Solomon PageantBks@aol.com

Seattle Fair Continues Success in a Tough Economy and Looks to Future Additions

There are advantages to the move. The 2003 Fair was sold out in June, even after additional booths were added. However, the larger venue for 2004 has only 88 booths; six of which are designated premier booths as they directly face the front doors. In addition to the booths themselves being larger (10 foot by 10 foot), there are 26 corner booths.

Furthermore, the producers will add a book arts show in conjunction with the 2004 Book Fair. The show is a unique opportunity for two related collectible book industries to cross-pollinate. Book Arts Show exhibitors must offer for sale book-related items or services they produce, publish, create or manufacture. Book artists, binders, fine small presses, conservators, book centered non-profits, and hand printers are expected to bring an added dynamic to the Northwest’s premier book event.

For more information or to be placed on the exhibitor waiting list call 206.323.399 or email info@seattlebookfair.com.

19th Annual Denver Book Fair

The Rocky Mountain Antiquarian Booksellers Association sponsored its 19th Annual Book Fair August 1 and 2, 2003. With more than 80 dealers from across the country, the Fair is the biggest antiquarian book event in the Rocky Mountain west. This year’s event included celebrity limerick readings and panel discussions on children’s literature and Edward Abbey.

Dates for the next fair are August 6 and 7, 2004.

Scenes from the 19th Annual Rocky Mountain Antiquarian Book Fair August 1 and 2, 2003