Firsts: London's Rare Book Fair | 16 - 19 May 2024

The ABA's flagship fair, Firsts London, which takes place at London's Saatchi Gallery, is just a few weeks away.

Firsts London is one of the most popular and prestigious rare book fairs in the world. Whether you're a collector looking for the next masterpiece to add to your library, or a bibliophile who loves browsing second-hand classics, Firsts London is a unique cultural event not to be missed. Get up close with inscribed firsts editions, occult manuscripts, letters between prominent figures, and gorgeous bindings embroidered by deft hands, or inlaid with precious stones.

Our theme for Firsts London 2024 is 'The Art of the Book'. In books, the visual arts meet literature, and beauty may be admired in illustration and illumination; in calligraphy and cartography; in typography and photography; in printmaking and paper manufacture; and within the art of bookbinding itself. Book design represents shifting tastes and conventions through the centuries and across cultures, as well as revealing socioeconomic factors which influence their production. Our theme for Firsts London 2024 brings together the best the market has to offer when it comes to beautiful and finely crafted books.

Event details

Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York's Square, King's Rd, London, SW3 4RY

16 May: 5pm - 9pm (invitation only)
17 May: 11am - 8pm (£10)
18 May: 11am - 6pm (£5)
19 May: 11am - 5pm (FREE entry)