An annual rite of spring for AAS curators is the Boston Book & Paper Exposition and Sale, one of two fairs sponsored annually by the Massachusetts and Rhode Island Antiquarian Booksellers (MARIAB). This spring’s fair will be held on Saturday, May 7, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Shriner’s Auditorium, 99 Fordham Road, Wilmington, MA (click here for directions). Over 80 MARIAB member booksellers will be offering a wide range of used and antiquarian books, ephemera, photographs, manuscripts, maps, postcards, and other paper collectibles. New this year is a day-long series of special lectures and exhibits, including a talk at 1:45 p.m. by John B. Hench, retired Vice President for Collections and Programs at AAS, on his recent book, Books as Weapons: Propaganda, Publishing and the Battle for Global Markets in the Era of World War II. More information can be found at the fair website.
AAS curators have always found this fair to be an excellent opportunity to acquire new treasures for the collection. If you like to collect, or are simply curious to attend the fair, dealers are more than happy to answer questions and let you browse their books. Even better, fair promoter Marvin Getman has generously offered free admission (normally $7 per person) to all who print a copy of the complimentary pass below and present it at the door.
