The Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America was founded in 1949 to promote interest in rare and antiquarian books and book collecting, and to foster collegial relations. We strive to maintain the highest standards in the trade. All members agree to abide by the ABAA's Code of Ethics.
The ABAA promotes ethical standards and professionalism in the antiquarian book trade, encourages collecting and preservation of rare and antiquarian books and related materials, supports educational programs and research into the study of rare books, and facilitates collegial relations between booksellers, librarians, scholars, and collectors. Read more about the mission of the ABAA.
As the oldest association of professional antiquarian booksellers in America, we have a reputation to uphold and we require our members to follow the Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct.
Membership in the ABAA cannot be obtained simply by paying a fee or signing an agreement. Before being considered for membership, booksellers must prove that they are established, knowledgeable, and of excellent reputation. Prospective members must be sponsored by current members, and undergo a rigorous screening process. The average ABAA member has been in business for more than twenty years. Read more about the ABAA Guarantee, Code of Ethics & Code of Conduct.
If you are a professional antiquarian or rare bookseller, learn more about how membership in the ABAA can help you and your business.
Information about the process of becoming a member of the ABAA.
The Antiquarian Booksellers' Benevolent Fund is a non-profit charity fund established by the ABAA in 1952 as the "Charles Grand Memorial Fund" to benefit any antiquarian bookseller in time of personal need. The Woodburn Fund gives financial assistance for scholarly research and education relevant to the antiquarian book trade.
Learn more or contribute to the Antiquarian Booksellers' Benevolent and Woodburn Funds.