ABA Educational Trust

Supporting the next generation of rare book specialists

The ABA Educational Trust exists to foster knowledge and appreciation of the book as a cultural artefact — from early printing to modern fine press. Through education, research, and outreach, the Trust helps ensure that the traditions and expertise of the antiquarian book trade are passed on and remain relevant in the 21st century.

What We Do

The Trust actively supports learning in the field of rare books and the history of the book. We fund or contribute to:

• Courses and workshops

• Seminars and conferences

• Prizes and publications

• Lectures and public events

• Individual bursaries for students and early-career professionals

Antiquarian booksellers play a vital role in keeping book history alive. They don’t just sell books — they preserve knowledge, share discoveries, and connect people to the past through the printed word. Many are self-taught experts, having absorbed vast experience over time. Unsurprisingly, booksellers often make some of the best teachers and mentors in the field.

Investing in the Future: The ABA Traineeship Scheme

To help bring new talent into the trade, the Trust launched the ABA Traineeship Scheme (formerly the Apprenticeship Scheme). This programme revives the traditional model of hands-on learning, offering new entrants the opportunity to train with experienced ABA booksellers.

• The scheme funds two-year, full-time traineeships with ABA members across the UK.

• Each trainee follows a structured curriculum designed by the Trust, covering all core aspects of the rare book trade — from cataloguing and research to conservation, pricing, and customer care.

• The aim is to produce confident, competent junior booksellers, ready to pursue a career in this fascinating and multifaceted world.

The first two trainees were placed in autumn 2014, and the scheme continues to grow.

How to Apply

We welcome applications from enthusiastic individuals who wish to build a career in the rare book trade.

To apply, please email Adam Douglas, Chairman of the ABA Educational Trust, with:

• Your CV

• A cover letter explaining why you want to enter the trade (beyond your passion for books)

• Any relevant experience or collecting interests

• Any geographical constraints you may have regarding relocation

Note: Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.

Who We Are

Trustees: Daniel Crouch, Adam Douglas, Anthony Smithson

Committee members: Simon Beattie, Justin Croft, Theodora Robinson

Antiquarian Booksellers Association Educational Trust is a registered charity, number 1138013