“Books are vessels containing the work of our culture, and are also works of art.”
authentic
Thomas Macaluso Rare and Fine Books THE TIES THAT BIND Maps. Prints. Rows upon rows of leatherbound books, some with careful lettering on their spines. To step inside Thomas Macaluso Rare and Fine Books feels like a visit to a world of possibility. Look carefully at one of the maps on the wall, and you’ll see that it was hand-painted in the 1500s. Open a book and you might be treated to a first edition from the 1700s, the illustrations still beautifully intact. Thomas Macaluso’s shop is a hidden gem in the heart of Kennett Square, what some might consider a cultural treasure house.
“I’m less a businessperson than a conservator,” says Thomas Macaluso, who finds some of his rarities at estate or book sales, some by way of customers, some that were headed for a recycling truck. Thomas Macaluso preserves not only the history, philosophy, literature and science of a culture, but also the art of the book. “Books are vessels containing the work of our culture, and are also works of art.” He started his bookselling business alongside his wife 40 years ago, first by selling books by mail from their East Marlborough home, then moving into a storefront in Kennett Square. “Kennett Square is our home,” says Thomas.
130 South Union Street, Kennett Square
“We love Kennett Square and we have taken a real interest in it.” Thomas has served on the board of the Bayard Taylor Memorial Library, the George Fox School, and Historic Kennett Square, which supports the economic development of downtown Kennett. “It’s a great organization doing a great job.” “I love Kennett Square because it is a friendly town with many cultures,” says Thomas, who speaks highly of all it has to offer, from the nearby Brandywine Conservancy to the “wonderful shops, restaurants, and services,” and live music at the Kennett Flash. “There’s a lot going on in the community.”
610.444.1063
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