Rare book enthusiasts have a new destination in Boston with the opening of Philip Salmon & Company Rare Books, a specialized bookshop that promises to honor its predecessor's legacy while introducing innovative collecting approaches. Located at 607 Boylston Street, the shop occupies a space long associated with literary and bibliophilic excellence, previously home to the renowned Bromer Booksellers.
Co-owner Phil Salmon and his team, all former Bromer employees, are positioning themselves as custodians of a rich bookselling tradition. Their inaugural catalog, "The Interaction of Paper," signals an ambitious vision that extends beyond conventional rare book dealing. The collection showcases an eclectic range of paper engineering works spanning three centuries, including children's pop-up books, interactive trade materials, and artist's books.
The shop distinguishes itself by maintaining a physical storefront at a time when most rare book dealers have transitioned exclusively to online sales. Salmon emphasizes the irreplaceable experience of personally examining books, believing that physical interaction remains crucial for serious collectors and enthusiasts.
Beyond traditional rare book collecting, Philip Salmon & Company aims to expand its focus to include materials exploring social justice issues. Their current inventory encompasses diverse genres including literary first editions, manuscripts, fine printing, Edward Gorey works, and miniature books. Pricing ranges from modest $50 acquisitions to high-end collector pieces in the mid-four-figure range.
By preserving the prestigious reputation of its predecessor while introducing contemporary collecting perspectives, the shop represents a nuanced approach to rare book dealing. It offers not just sales, but also professional services such as appraisals, cataloging, and collection development guidance.
The emergence of Philip Salmon & Company signals a potential renaissance for brick-and-mortar rare book shops, suggesting that despite digital alternatives, there remains a robust market for curated, personally selected literary treasures. For collectors and book lovers, this new establishment represents more than a retail space—it is a cultural preservation effort that bridges historical book traditions with modern collecting sensibilities.
