Le Printemps du Livre Ancien

Le Printemps du Livre Ancien: A Unique Event in Anjou

For several years, the association Renaissance de la Doutre has organized the Printemps du Livre Ancien every spring at the Greniers Saint-Jean, a magnificent architectural complex from the 12th century located in the La Doutre district of Angers, on the banks of the Maine. This fair brings together specialists in antique and rare books, as well as artisans of book crafts, for a weekend of bibliophile discoveries.

A New Theme Each Year

Each edition of the Printemps du Livre Ancien revolves around a unifying theme. In 2024, the edition "Le Livre à table" explored the links between gastronomy and literature, with conferences dedicated to Curnonsky, the "prince of gastronomes" born in Angers, in partnership with Les Lyriades de la langue française. In 2023, the chosen theme was "Comics and Manga", demonstrating the fair's openness to all forms of written heritage.

Booksellers, Artisans, and Conferences

The fair hosts about twenty specialized booksellers who present their finest pieces: first editions, illustrated books, manuscripts, old maps, prints, and rare works. In parallel, artisans of book crafts — binders, gilders, calligraphers, engravers, restorers — demonstrate their know-how. Conferences and round tables complete the program, offering visitors erudite and passionate insights into the year's theme.

The Greniers Saint-Jean: A Heritage Setting

The setting of the Greniers Saint-Jean gives the fair a unique atmosphere. This former medieval hospital, with its barrel vaults and centuries-old stones, offers an ideal showcase for the promotion of written heritage. Located on Place du Tertre Saint-Laurent, on the banks of the Maine, the venue is easily accessible on foot from the city center of Angers.