History
The Book Club of California was originally founded by four bibliophiles for the purpose of assembling an exhibition of rare books and locally produced fine printing to go on display at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in 1915. While the exhibition they envisioned never came to pass, the club they had so casually created fared very well indeed. By December of 1912, it was formally organized and could boast of fifty-eight charter members; the first publication was produced just two years following. Now, over a century later, the Book Club continues to publish exemplary limited-edition books, while also offering a dynamic series of programming and exhibitions that promote the art of fine printing in California and the West. The Albert Sperisen Library furthers this mission by maintaining a specialized collection of reference, fine print, and rare materials, all of which is available for use by appointment.
Specialties
The Book Club of California is a non-profit, member-supported organization founded in 1912. The club supports the art of fine printing through a dynamic series of publications, public programs, and exhibitions related to the history and literature of California and the West. A special collections library is available for use by appointment and holds a variety of reference, fine press, and rare materials. Membership is open to all. Join our century-long tradition of fine books in California and the West today!