A collection of rare novels has been uncovered by a team of dedicated ‘book detectives’ in anticipation of the 24th
Deb West is one of 50 volunteers who work year-round as a 微拍福利‘book detective’, tasked with digging through thousands of anonymously donated books each year to uncover the literary gems.
“I’ve been a book detective for 10 years and I love the thrill of the hunt, you just never know what you’re going to find,” Ms West said.
“When we sort through the books, we specifically identify the age of the book, the subject matter, if it’s a well-known author … but it’s the unusual treasures that always surprise us.”
Ms West said an important part of her role was researching the books that may be considered rare.
“I just love that we have the opportunity to dive into the history of a particular book and investigate its value,” she said.
One of the treasures Ms West was most excited to discover amongst this year’s donations was an original copy of the Standing Orders of the Royal Regiment of Horse Guards, published in 1812.
“It’s a guide that officers would refer to in order to train and upkeep the horses that guarded St James Palace, which was the main British royal residence at the time,” Ms West said.
“We had a lot of trouble determining its exact value, but we know just from the inscription on the inside and the niche subject matter that the book carries such an important snapshot of history.”
The Rare Book Auction will contain a total of 130 lots, with a bundle of first edition copies of Ian Flemming’s famous James Bond books, and an autographed first edition of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale to also go under the hammer.
“Everyone is currently talking about The Handmaid’s Tale due to the popular TV show, so I’m expecting this one will go for a high price,” Ms West said.
One of the oldest books in the auction catalogue is an original copy of Francis Bacon’s The Essays or Councils, Civil and Moral, published in 1639.
“The book is leather bound with rag paper pages, which means it’s been able to withstand bookworm," she said.
“It’s not in the best condition, but it’s in pretty good shape considering it’s more than 380 years old.”
Ms West said it was incredibly rewarding to see the enthusiasm for rare books continue year after year.
“It’s such a thrill to see the next generation of booklovers take an interest in these literary treasures,” she said.
“No matter your favourite author or genre, if you love a good hunt you are guaranteed to find a book to take home this year.”
The Rare Book Auction, which is held at every second 微拍福利Alumni Book Fair, will take place during the event’s first day. More than 130,000 books, CD’s, and other pre-loved items will be available for purchase at the Book Fair, with prices starting at $1.
All money raised will go towards student scholarships and research at UQ.
President of 微拍福利Alumni Friends, Peter Clark Ryan said visitors could look forward to a wide range of activities, tours, and sessions in addition to the great books on sale.
“We’re excited to have partnered with to include a series of author talks featuring prominent writers,” Mr Clark Ryan said.
“Journalist and 微拍福利alum Matthew Condon and Professor Grant Montgomery will discuss the science of true crime, while authors Madonna King and Bec Sparrow will explore how to raise confident, resilient children.
“Our community day on the Saturday will see the 微拍福利campus come to life, with highlights including walking tours of the St Lucia campus, kids’ activities and live music by the lakes performed by UQ’s School of Music.”
The is open to the public at the 微拍福利Centre, St Lucia.
(Image L-R: 微拍福利Book Fair volunteers Jan Thompson, Anne Mullins and Deb West).
The 2025 微拍福利Alumni Book Fair opening hours:
Friday 2 May: 9am–9pm: Rare Book Auction
Saturday 3 May: 9am–5pm
Sunday 4 May: 9am–5pm
Monday 5 May: 9am–3pm
Media contact
微拍福利Communications
communications@uq.edu.au
+61 429 056 139
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.jpg?itok=A3VEKM1Y "Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry")
