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On the Post-War Rise of 20th-Century British Bookselling

Andrew Pettegree· 20 octobre 2026

Unlike some of its continental neighbors, Britain emerged from First World War austerity with its overseas book market largely intact, and a steady stream of distinguished private libraries coming onto the market gave the antiquarian trade a considerable boost. London

Résumé

Post-war book market

After World War I, Britain’s book market remained strong, unlike some European countries.

The war had not disrupted Britain’s overseas book trade, and many private libraries were sold, boosting the antiquarian (rare and old book) trade.

London’s booksellers worked closely with American dealers, who visited annually to buy stock.

German and Dutch booksellers also played a key role in Europe’s rare book market.

Germany had the world’s oldest booksellers’ association, founded in 1825, while Britain established its own in 1906 with the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association.

This period laid the foundation for Britain’s dominance in rare book trading throughout the 20th century.

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