On May 20, the Ann Arbor Antiquarian Book Fair will celebrate its 33rd anniversary. Since 1976, the Fair has attracted book collectors, book dealers, and others that treasure the book from throughout the Midwest to Ann Arbor.

While some aspects of the book business have been in decline, the Ann Arbor Antiquarian Book Fair has thrived. Attendance has steadily increased and the quality of exhibiting dealers continues to improve. In this digital age many people, young and old, prefer the “feel” of a book and would rather see and touch a book before buying it.

The fair will be held in the ballroom of the Michigan Student Union, at 530 S. State St., from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fair benefits the William L. Clements Library of the University of Michigan.

Of the 40 exhibiting dealers some come from as far as Massachusetts, Tennessee, Missouri, and Minnesota. Since the dealers will be bringing their most interesting titles, it has been quipped that on that day the book fair is the best book shop in the world.

Among the items featured this year will be a collection of the first editions of Joseph Conrad in addition to children’s books, fine leather bindings, poetry, Michigan history, travel and explorations, illustrated books, cookbooks, and books in many other subjects and prices. There will also be two bookbinders there to exhibit their handiwork and answer questions about book preservation and restoration.

A $5 donation is requested. For more information, call West Side Book Shop owner Jay Platt at 734-995-1891, or visit http://www.annarborbookfair.com.