What is the Athens Art Book Library?

We have been building our archive over the last 5 years to create an important historical record of the publishing medium in Greece (and abroad). Our dream has always been to then make this archive accessible to the public beyond the days of the fair in the form of a reading room. Having created a database of more than 200 printed works kindly donated by exhibitors and Collective Display participants in past years, we are now concentrating our efforts in growing and making this collection public.

Is there a physical space?

That’s the ultimate goal but not yet! We are currently looking for the funds and space to make the library/reading room happen and are concentrating on growing our collection. If you have any ideas about space get in touch!

What is the submission process?

We ask you to fill in a form with all the infomation needed to archive your publication. Upon submitting this, you will receive the address where you can post your publication(s). Since we are unfortunatelly not able to cover everyone’s postal fees, this is something you have to cover. Otherwise we will be organising drop-off meetings twice a year for the ones that are locally based.

Is there a deadline?

No, this application will remain open all year-round.

What are we looking for?

Everything. We want all types of published works and all types of creators to be represented. Artist publications, zines, photobooks, catalogues, magazines, books and any combination of the above. All works are treated with the outmost care and are an important addition to our collection.

Do you accept publications outside of Greece?

Yes, we are eager to include publications from all corners of the world.

I haven’t participated in the fair before, can I submit?

Absolutely, this is an open invitation to all.

Can I submit more than one publications?

Of course, please do! Note however that you will need to fill in a form for each of the works you are submitting with title, description and other information.

If I submit a publication here, can I also apply for the Collective Display with it?

All publications submitted to the archive/library are considered for the annual Collective Display by selecting the option in the form, no need to submit the publication twice.

What happens to my publication after submission?

Publications are photographed (front and back covers), archived and safely stored. Once we house our library in a physical location the public will be given access to all works.