The following article appeared in Voyage MIA on May 24, 2023.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrienne Raptis. She recently shared the story of how she and her husband, Matthew, started their business, Raptis Rare Books, with us below:

 

 

Matthew and Adrienne Raptis are the proud proprietors of Raptis Rare Books. Adrienne’s passion for reading was ignited at a young age, as she immersed herself in literary classics like “The Grapes of Wrath” and “A Tale of Two Cities” while still in fifth grade. Meanwhile, Matthew fostered a deep love for history, embarking on his collection of Civil War books from the age of eight.

Raptis Rare Books now stands as a premier antiquarian bookstore situated at 329 Worth Avenue (formerly 226 Worth Avenue) in Palm Beach, Florida. Their specialty lies in fine first editions, signed and inscribed books, and significant works across various fields.

In 2022, the couple furthered their business ventures by acquiring the Harcourt Bindery in Boston, Massachusetts, as a testament to their enduring dedication to preserving the rich tradition of book conservation in our history and culture. Founded in 1900, the bindery specializes in the meticulous art of rebinding and crafting custom clamshell boxes, standing as the oldest and largest traditional hand-bookbinder in the United States.

Recently, they broadened their horizons by inaugurating a cigar lounge and literary-inspired café conveniently situated adjacent to the bookstore. In today’s bustling world, their aspiration is to provide individuals with a serene, world-class experience. Take a moment to peruse and reminisce about the books that have left an indelible mark on your life. Indulge in the simple joys of savoring a delightful cup of Italian coffee and delectable cuisine. Relax, unwind, and engage in meaningful conversations while enjoying a fine cigar.

 

 

Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?

Every meaningful journey is marked by its twists and turns, and every captivating story has its share of unexpected plot twists. While my love for books has always been evident, my path to where I am today, alongside my husband, Matthew, has been far from conventional. Surprisingly, my academic background lies in Public Health, with a master’s degree from Yale University, specializing in the Epidemiology of Microbial Disease.

Initially, I envisioned myself working in third-world countries, yet here I am, on Worth Avenue in luxurious Palm Beach. Contrary to the norm, we made the move from New England and transitioned from an online and catalogue-based business to establishing a retail presence. Neither of us possesses a formal business background, yet we find ourselves at the helm of multiple thriving enterprises.

In addition to our ventures, I also run a health coaching business in my spare time and published a book last year. With two children to care for, our journey has been anything but ordinary.

 

 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?

We are renowned for our meticulous attention to quality. We handle unique and noteworthy rare books, each boasting exceptional condition.

With every publication, a singular narrative unfurls—a tale not only confined to the pages but one that resonates deeply, shaping the lives of readers. From one reader to the next, the profound impact of each book reverberates throughout society, weaving a narrative worth sharing. By holding a first edition, we become intertwined with its story, potentially handled by the author, gifted to acquaintances, or embraced by other influential figures.

It brings us great joy to invite our customers into these narratives, offering tailored and personalized service to help them realize their literary aspirations. Our expertise lies in catering to private collectors with specific wish lists, assisting individuals in finding the perfect gift for special occasions, and collaborating with institutional representatives.

Whether their interests lie in building a traditional library of exquisite bindings or exploring niche genres like science fiction, architecture, sports, or economics, we excel in curating collections that reflect their unique tastes. Understanding that each individual is distinct, our goal is to harmonize their library with their living space, creating a seamless reflection of individual personalities. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of contributing to some of the most exceptional private and public libraries nationwide.

 

 

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
As rare book dealers, we’ve had the privilege of handling and curating a diverse array of literary treasures, each with its own unique story to tell. Through our interactions with these rare volumes, we’ve gleaned invaluable lessons that transcend time and speak to the human experience in profound ways.

Firstly, books serve as windows into the past, offering insights into the lives, thoughts, and experiences of those who came before us. As we sift through centuries-old manuscripts and first editions, we are reminded of the enduring power of storytelling to connect us across generations and cultures. Each book holds within its pages a piece of history waiting to be discovered, providing us with a deeper understanding of the events and individuals that have shaped our world.

Secondly, books have the remarkable ability to impart wisdom and knowledge, offering lessons that resonate with us on a personal level. Whether it’s a timeless work of philosophy, a stirring piece of poetry, or a gripping narrative of triumph over adversity, books have the power to inspire, challenge, and enlighten us. As rare book dealers, we’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that a single volume can have on an individual’s life, sparking curiosity and creativity and igniting a passion for lifelong learning.

Finally, books serve as custodians of culture and heritage, preserving the collective wisdom and creativity of humanity for future generations. In our role as stewards of rare books, we recognize the importance of safeguarding these cultural artifacts and ensuring that they remain accessible to all who seek to learn from them. Each book we acquire and share with others is a testament to the enduring legacy of human ingenuity and imagination, reminding us of the timeless value of literature in enriching our lives and broadening our horizons.

 

 

In essence, the lessons we’ve learned as rare book dealers affirm the profound significance of books as vessels of knowledge, insight, and inspiration. Through our work, we are reminded of the enduring power of literature to illuminate the past, inform the present, and shape the future. As we continue on our journey, we remain committed to sharing the transformative power of books with others, knowing that they hold the keys to unlocking a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Pricing:

• Our most expensive book: $1,900,000.00 DON QUIXOTE – CERVANTES’ FINAL REVISED THIRD EDITION OF PART I AND THE SCARCE FIRST EDITION OF PART II
• Our oldest book: $30,000 The Odyssey of Homer (1510)
• Our cheapest book: $50