History
The first Bookfair was held at the ill-fated autonomy centre in Wapping. In what turned out to be the coldest day of the year, half a dozen anarchist publishers spread out their wares, and when hardly anyone turned up they played a pool tournament. It was a nice time and everyone said: ‘do it again next year'. So we did.
The idea for the Anarchist Bookfair actually came from the SWP (or International Socialists as they were then). They used to hold a Socialist Bookfair at the Camden Centre. Lots of anarchists turned up, but it was a really boring event, expensive and loads of mainstream publishers. Anarchists there decided to hold our own version.
The idea was that it would be a smaller, but more fun, version of theirs, but ironically, the Socialist Bookfair died years ago.
The first Bookfair was in 1983 and this is our 27th Bookfair. The maths doesn't work out because for a couple of years we had two a year. Each year we've grown with more stallholders, more meetings and more people turning up on the day. Increasing number of people is why we have gradually changed venues, each time to a bigger place.
The original and still the best!
As mentioned above, this year is our 27th Anarchist Bookfair and we think it is the largest and most important regular gathering of Anarchists in the world. It reflects the full range of Anarchist groups, publishers and activities. Alongside the day-long Bookfair, where you can get the latest books, pamphlets, magazines and all the other stuff, there are continual meetings and discussions on all aspects of anarchist activity. These are open to all.
Through the day there is a professionally run creche and hot food. As has happened in previous years there will be anarchist cabaret throughout the day and a full programme of videos/DVD's for people to watch.
Getting to the venue
If you are coming by public transport the following buses stop near the college on Mile End Road: 25; 205; 339.
If you are coming by tube the two nearest stations are Mile End (central line / Hammersmith & City line or District line) or Stepney Green (Hammersmith & City line or District line). From Mile End tube come out of station and turn left. Walk along Mile End Road until you get to Harford Street and entrance to venue is opposite Harford Road. From Stepney Green tube come out of station and turn left. Walk along Mile End Road and venue entrance is on your left opposite Harford Road.
See map of the venue and surrounding area Ignore the arrow – this is for stall holders parking
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