62nd Annual New York International Antiquarian Book Fair at the Park Avenue Armory

The Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America’s (ABAA) New York International Antiquarian Book Fair (NYIABF), is to be presented April 21-24, 2022 by Sanford L. Smith + Associates.

At this juncture more than 200 exhibitors have signed up to present examples of the greatest rare books, maps, manuscripts, incunabula, fine bindings, illustrations, historical documents, prints and print ephemera. Think of this show as visiting a museum that includes exhibits with prices.

As to what you’ll likely find, the fair’s participating dealers’ specialties encompass art, science, medicine, literature, history, gastronomy, fashion, first editions, Americana, philosophy, children’s books and much more. From the historic and academic, the religious and spiritual—to the bedrock of secular culture, finance, and politics—the fair boasts offerings in almost every conceivable genre and subject. More or less, it is a show of high points given that costs of exhibiting are substantial.

Nevertheless, the ABAA has also long emphasized inexpensive material be included to appeal to new collectors. Experience has long shown that if, when young and bite the forbidden fruit, such collectors often become lifers, even in some cases to become ABAA dealers themselves in the decades ahead. They explain it this way, one of a kind offerings at entry-level price-points but what they really are The forbidden fruit and it’s fun. When there, take a bite.

For those interested, whether they are looking for museum quality material or entry-level bites, this fair is also providing a link to join their mailing list. After which, you’ll learn about the show’s plans as they are announced. It’s a way to understand how the upper echelon of dealers worldwide do their business.

If interested, click this link to their website: mailing list

As well, the ABAA will be providing an associated Electronic Book Fair. During the pandemic, such fairs saved book dealers worldwide. How such EBFs will fit into the post-pandemic world is yet to be understood.