Celebrating 10 years of Melbourne Rare Book Week

Melbourne Rare Book Week (MRBW) is back from July 18 to 27, celebrating its 10th anniversary with an exceptional array of events, exhibitions, and lectures focused on rare and collectible books.

As the first rare book week in the world, MRBW has become a cherished annual event, drawing bibliophiles and collectors from around the world.

This year’s lineup is set to be the most exciting yet, offering 45 free events in partnership with Victoria’s top cultural institutions.

“Melbourne Rare Book Week 2024 is a perfect winter escape,” vice president of the event Shane Carmody said.

Events take place across the city in venues including the Supreme Court Library, the Melbourne Athenaeum Library, the MCG, the Johnstone Collection, and the Wild Geese Pub in Brunswick.

The week unites more than 30 partner organisations throughout Melbourne to host events centred on the unique and remarkable books in their collections.

MRBW also covers a wide array of topics and interests, from examining the first printed book in English to discussing the impact of Australian Women’s Weekly cookbooks on the nation’s food culture.

“You may be inspired to add to your collection or start a collection, and the perfect opportunity awaits at the Rare Book Fair in Wilson Hall at the University of Melbourne,” Mr Carmody told CBD News.

“Australian and international booksellers will have a huge range of tempting books at price points to suit all buyers.”