Antique and Second-hand Book Fair

A Bibliophile Rendezvous in the Heart of Clermont-Ferrand

The Antique and Second-hand Book Fair in Clermont-Ferrand has become a must-attend event for enthusiasts of rare and old books in the Auvergne capital. Held at the Chapelle des Cordeliers, a magnificent heritage building located in the historic center of the city, this fair brings together about twenty antique and second-hand booksellers from all over France each year.

Literary Treasures to Discover

Visitors can browse the booksellers' stands and discover a wide variety of carefully selected works:

• Old Books: original editions, rare and precious books, manuscripts, and incunabula
• Regional Editions: works dedicated to Auvergne, Puy-de-Dôme, and the Massif Central
• Comic Books: old and collectible albums
• Pop-up Books: mechanical books, pop-ups, and pull-tab books
• Newspapers and Magazines: old press and collectible journals
• Prints and Engravings: old and contemporary graphic works

Book Crafts Honored

In addition to the bookstalls, the fair hosts artisans of book crafts who present their know-how to the public. Bookbinders, book restorers, calligraphers, and illuminators offer demonstrations of their ancestral techniques, allowing visitors to discover the behind-the-scenes of the creation and restoration of old books.

The Chapelle des Cordeliers, a Heritage Gem

The Chapelle des Cordeliers, located on Rue des Cordeliers in the historic center of Clermont-Ferrand, offers an exceptional setting for this fair dedicated to written heritage. This former religious building, converted into a cultural space, harmoniously blends medieval architecture with the showcasing of old books. Its vaults and volcanic stone walls create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and literary discovery.

An Event Accessible to All

The Antique and Second-hand Book Fair aims to be an event open to all audiences, from seasoned collectors to the simply curious. Admission is free, allowing everyone to browse the stands, leaf through the books, and chat with professional booksellers. Book lovers can find both high-priced collectible editions and second-hand books at very affordable prices.

LACME, a Passionate Organizer

The fair is organized by LACME (Librairie Ancienne et de Collection du Massif central et d'Europe), an association of professional booksellers specializing in antique and second-hand books. LACME works to promote bibliophilia and organize antique book fairs in several cities in France.