Ken Gloss, the proprietor of the famous Brattle Book Store is the featured speaker for the Stoneham Historical Society & Museum March 12th meeting. This free and open to the public presentation will be on the value of old and rare books. A frequent guest appraiser on PBS’ “Antiques Roadshow” will talk about the history of the Brattle Book Store building (www.brattlebookshop.com) which goes back to 1825, and his experience as a second generation owner. In addition, Ken will talk about and show some of his favorite finds and describe some of the joys of the “hunt”, as well as explain what makes a book go up in value. He has many fascinating anecdotes to share as wel as guidelines for what to look for when starting a collection. Also, there is also a Q & A session before the conclusion of the talk. Following the end of the program, he will give free verbal appraisals of all books that attendees have brought with them or will do so at his shop in Boston. The SHSM is located at 36 William Street, Stoneham. On Thursday, March 12th, the doors will open at 6:45 p.m. to browse about the Museum. There will be a brief business meeting at 7:00 p.m. followed by the speaker at 7:15 p.m.
The Yankee Magazine Editor’s Choice Award for the Best of the New England, the Brattle Book Shop is one of America’s largest antiquarian bookstores. 2020 is the 71st year of Gloss family ownership, Kenneth Gloss succeeded with his late father, George Gloss, a well known figure both in Boston and national antiquarian circles. He had worked in the store since childhood and chose to go into the book business rather than pursue a doctorate in chemistry. He became the sole proprietor upon his father’s death in 1985. ” I found that book’s are in my blood and that I would never be really happy if I abandoned the business.”
