Business Details
31 Years
experience
Rare Books on Architecture, Design & Fine Art in York
Established in 1995, Janette Ray Rare and Out of Print Books has become a trusted name in the trade of rare and antiquarian books focusing on architecture, design, gardens, photography, and fine art. Our expertise spans over 25 years, with a curated collection predominantly published between 1800 and 1950, including original drawings and photographs. Located in York, England, our shop occupies a meticulously restored medieval timber-framed building adjacent to St Marys Abbey, reflecting our commitment to historical preservation. We are proud members of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association, York Booksellers, and the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers, adhering to the highest standards of professionalism. Our services extend beyond our physical shop through participation in major book fairs, online catalogues, and a dedicated mailing list for updates.We offer personalized appointments for clients seeking specific titles or collections, ensuring a tailored experience. Our teams deep knowledge of design history and rare publications is complemented by collaborations with local craftsmen during our shops renovation, underscoring our connection to artisanal excellence. We prioritize transparency in our dealings, providing detailed provenance and condition reports for all items. With a global clientele, we facilitate international shipping and inquiries, maintaining the same meticulous care in every transaction. Our dedication to preserving cultural heritage through rare books positions us as a respected authority in our niche, blending tradition with contemporary accessibility.
Services
Rare Book Sales
Antiquarian Catalogues
Photography Books
Design History Publications
Garden Architecture Literature
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of expertise in rare books on design and art.
- Our collection focuses on high-quality publications from 18001950.
- We operate from a historic, renovated medieval building in York.
- We are members of leading international antiquarian book trade associations.
- We provide personalized service by appointment for tailored assistance.
Associations and certifications
- Antiquarian Booksellers Association
- York Booksellers
- International League of Antiquarian Booksellers
- Provincial Booksellers Association
Services
Rare Book Sales
We specialize in rare and out-of-print books covering architecture, design, gardens, photography, and fine art. Our collection spans publications from 1800 to 1950, including original drawings and photographs. Each item is meticulously sourced and presented with detailed provenance, catering to collectors, institutions, and enthusiasts worldwide.
Catalogue Publishing
Alongside our online platform, we produce paper catalogues featuring curated selections of books on housing, garden history, mid-century modern design, and more. These catalogues are available by post or download, offering insights into specialized themes and collections for our clients.
Book Fair Participation
We actively participate in major rare book fairs, including the Chelsea Rare Book Fair and FIRSTS London. These events allow us to showcase our inventory, network with collectors, and offer personalized consultations. Our presence at these fairs underscores our commitment to connecting with the global book community.
Personalized Appointments
For clients seeking specific titles or collections, we offer appointments outside regular shop hours. This service ensures tailored assistance, whether youre visiting in person or enquiring remotely, reflecting our dedication to customer-centric service and accessibility.
Historical Research
Our expertise extends to historical research on rare publications, including provenance verification and contextual analysis. We assist clients in understanding the significance of their acquisitions, drawing on our deep knowledge of design history and cultural heritage.
People
Janette Ray
Owner
Janette Ray established her rare book business in 1995, leveraging her expertise in architecture, design, and photography. She relocated to Yorks historic 8 Bootham premises in 2000, transforming a ruinous medieval building into a distinguished shop. Her work emphasizes cultural preservation and scholarly accessibility.
Questions
What types of books do you specialize in?
We specialize in rare and out-of-print books on architecture, design, gardens, photography, and fine art, primarily published between 1800 and 1950.
Can I visit your shop in York?
Yes, our shop is open Wednesday–Friday, 10:00–17:00, with appointments available outside these hours. Please call ahead if traveling from afar.
Do you sell original drawings or photographs?
Yes, our inventory includes original drawings and photographs alongside rare books, focusing on design and art history.
Are your books available internationally?
Yes, we serve a global clientele and offer international shipping and inquiries for all items in our collection.
Do you participate in book fairs?
Yes, we exhibit at major fairs like the Chelsea Rare Book Fair and FIRSTS London, showcasing curated selections from our inventory.
