Used Book Fair

As every Summer, the Universidad Mayor opens its doors once again to the traditional ‘Used Book Fair’, to offer the visiting public a good shot of culture and entertainment for every taste and at the reach of all pockets.

In this edition, the twenty-sixth of this meeting of independent book sellers, the honorees are Chilean women writers of children’s books. Authors such as Marcela Paz, María Silva Ossa, Cecilia Beuchat and Ana Maria del Río are a few of the familiar names recognised by adults and children alike, thanks to books such as "Papelucho", "Caracol, Caracol, Saca tu Libro al Sol" and "Lita, La Nia del Fin del Mundo" among many others.

Nearly 40 exhibitors occupy the five halls and corridors of this College, many of whom are already fixtures in this annual event.

As usual, in this fair the visitor will find books in Spanish and other languages (English, French, German and Italian), handbooks, travel guides, magazines, art catalogues, comics, posters, music CDs and more, all of them at reasonable prices, with daily sales and the chance of bargaining directly with the booksellers.

One of the most interesting aspects of this fair is the possibility of finding real gems in ancient books, either in unique volumes or in complete collections, as well as out-of-print books, rare books, first editions, etc.

The fair is also interesting for those keen on antiques and nostalgia, for whom the exhibitors offer a hefty selection of cultural and popular material, from old magazines and paperbacks, to encyclopaedias and coffee table volumes.

Sadly although this edition of the fair is dedicated to Chilean women writers of children’s books, the offer of such works is dully missed. Aside from a conference hall where some of these volumes are encased in glass cabinets, neither the books or any mention to the authors supposedly honoured are to be found anywhere in the fair.

In spite of this, the Used Book Fair of the Universidad Mayor is still a required stop for all book lovers and culture aficionados, and an stimulating visit for the entire family, all of whom will find something of their liking amongst the varied offer from its exhibitors.

The fair will also include free lectures, storytellers and poetry readings. For more information about the schedule of activities, and to check a map of the fair, click on the ‘More Info’ link below.

And if browsing through its many stands whets your appetite, the Fair includes a café with refreshing drinks and ice creams. But if your intention is to buy books, bring cash since not all vendors take cards.

Event: "XXVI Used Book Fair - Universidad Mayor"
Dates: January 31^st through February 18^th , 2018
Hours: 10 am to 9 pm, Monday through Sunday
Location: Universidad Mayor Arts Faculty Building
Address: Santo Domingo 711, Santiago Centro (‘Bellas Artes’ Subway station)
Cost: Free
More info: www.umayor.cl/librousado