Artwork by Joanna Funke

“I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of anything than of a book!” -Jane Austen

Rare Books San Francisco returns on February 1-2, 2025 and brings with it a Regency era flare in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the birth of revered English novelist Jane Austen (1775-1817).

With support from AbeBooks and KQED, this celebration of antiquarian books, rare maps, fine printing, ephemera, and artist’s books will take in the Gateway Pavilion at Fort Mason and for the first time, will include a selection of independent writers, artists, and creators curated by San Francisco Zine Fest.

“We are excited to be back in the City by the Bay and to bring with us exhibitors from as far away as Australia and the Netherlands and everywhere in between,” said Jodi Tolan, Director of Operations for Rare Books LA, which produces events in California and New York. “This book fair is sure to exceed all expectations in terms of the diversity of materials on display and the outstanding free programs taking place throughout the weekend.”

In addition to guided tours of the book fair and a zine making workshop, leading writers and “Janeites” will speak to the life, work, and lasting influence of Jane Austen (1775-1817), author of such classic novels as Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), and Emma (1816)


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