Books, music and our youngest book lovers and collectors

From 27-28 September, the historic Zuiderkerk, in the very heart of Amsterdam, once again welcomed bibliophiles, collectors and dealers from near and far. For the Amsterdam International Rare Book, Print & Map Fair, organised by our colleagues of the Nederlandsche Vereeniging van Antiquaren (NVvA), 37 leading ILAB-affiliated dealers from across Europe were gathering for an event which is much more than only a marketplace. Our Dutch colleagues curated a wonderful cultural programme: visitors could watch bookbinders at their work, listen to lectures about the history of books and collecting, and also join tours with experts through the fair. A highlight of the weekend was the presentation of the Young Book Collector’s Prize 2025, which this year was given to Laurens de Man for his collection of miniature books.

Reflecting about the meaning of this initiative, Laurens Hesselink, President of the NVvA, said:
“With the Young Collectors Prize we want to show that the passion for books is not dependent on age. It is our way to encourage a new generation to enjoy rare books, prints and manuscripts, to start their own collections and to feel the joy of discovery which has inspired bibliophiles for since centuries. I am very happy to see how much creativity and knowledge young collectors are already bringing to the field. Their enthusiasm is catching and gives us confidence that the world of rare books will have a bright future.”

As in the years before, the Dutch association put special attention to younger visitors, with initiatives to inspire love for books also in the next generation. Kids enjoyed special guided tours, and a concert from the local music school filled the historic church with classical tunes – books and music have always been a wonderful combination!

The Young Collectors Prize is also proof that it is not difficult to excite new generations for the world of rare books. With the right encouragement, young collectors are eager to explore, to learn, and to keep this century-old tradition alive.