The sixty-second annual New York International Antiquarian Book Fair is this week, running from Thursday, April 21 through Sunday, April 24. Regarded as the world’s finest antiquarian book fair, this year’s exhibition showcases nearly two hundred items, including rare books, maps, illuminated manuscripts, incunabula, fine bindings, illustrations, historical documents, prints, and print ephemera.
While the fair is aimed at rare book collectors, it’s guaranteed to be a fun event for any book lover, including those who merely want to browse. From medieval religious texts to first edition copies of Dune, there is a veritable cornucopia of offerings in any genre you could ask for.
The fair starts with a preview on Thursday from 5-9 pm, with more expensive $60 tickets. The following three days have expanded hours and cheaper tickets. Student tickets (with a valid student ID) cost only $10 on Friday through Sunday. Friday the hours are noon to 8 pm, Saturday the hours are noon to 7 pm, and Sunday the hours are noon to 5pm. Adding to the ambiance, the show is at the historic Park Avenue Armory, 643 Park Avenue.