If you're in the Seattle area and you have any interest in books I suggest you head down to the Seattle Center for the annual Seattle Antiquarian Book Fair on Saturday and/or Sunday. It's nirvana for bibliophiles. It's even more nirvana-ish if you have oodles of money to spend. If you're looking for William Faulkner's hand-written letters, rare works by Charles Bukowski, a lithotint of Chateaux Valle de la Loire, unique old books on Hawaiian flora, whatever your interest you'll find a fascinating tome at the fair.
I've purchased several books at the fair in years past including works by John Steinbeck, Edward Gorey, T.C. Boyle, Ernest Hemingway, and Jack London. Being somewhat lean in the finances department, I could only buy what I could but simply seeing what's offered is a real treat. That said, go. You won't be disappointed.
If you don't know much about collecting antiquarian books but are eager to learn, I'd start here. If you already have an interest in first editions and have money to burn you can visit online my favorite rare book shop in America, Bauman Rare Books. Or, if you're in Seattle, stop by Pioneer Square's exquisite Wessel and Lieberman Booksellers.
Oh, and one other thing. If you have an old book and are curious as to what it's worth, check out Bookfinder.com. It'll give you some idea on if you're sitting on a book that could pay your kids' college education.
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