Photograph of Ilkley 2022 Book Fair used with kind permission of David Derbyshire of D. B. Derbyshire Bookseller.
For book-lovers everywhere, a second-hand book fair resembles a gold mine. The thrill of rummaging through boxes of books and scouring shelves for the perfect edition is incomparable, something many of us would do every day given the chance. But what a shocking number of people are unaware of is just how many opportunities there are to attend book fairs in the UK. The PBFA (Provincial Booksellers Fairs Association) is an organisation that runs a huge number of varied book fairs every year. Having celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, the PBFA is a long-running venture that facilitates both small and large fairs. It was founded by Gerry Mosdell, with the first-ever PBFA book fair being held in the 1970s.
The largest PBFA book fair of the year is held in York, usually in September. Situated at York Racecourse, this fair features over two hundred book dealers and lasts two days. But smaller fairs can be equally fascinating, Ilkley, Bakewell, and Abergavenny are just some further examples of fairs spread across the UK. PBFA fairs feature thousands of books of all varying genres, including: rare, collectable, and signed editions.
The PBFA also sponsor the York Antiquarian Book Seminar which is a yearly event intended to help booksellers increase their career skills and knowledge, as well as build a sense of community.
Booksellers are always looking to reach wider audiences and the number of students attending book fairs is ever-increasing. When asked about the most appealing aspects of fairs such as these, Dr F.L. Philip of Quair Books Ltd, commented: ‘Book fairs are where sustainability, science, history, art and culture collide; you can enjoy slow browsing and an escape from the digital. Booksellers are often as fascinating and knowledge rich as their wares, friendly even! And, there are bargains to be had, treasures to be found, books you didn’t know you wanted, all in one space and usually with excellent homemade refreshments to boot.’
The PBFA book fairs have proven themselves to be treasure troves of potential for students and anyone with an interest in reading. They continue throughout the year; each fair is different but you may see familiar sellers across many different locations. The bookselling community is vibrant and welcoming, there is no better place to learn about the industry and walk away with several new additions for your literary collection.
