At MFLIBRA Antique Books, we specialize in out of print, rare, and antiquarian books, each carefully chosen for its history, beauty, and quiet presence. We like to call them “Books with a Soul.”
MFLIBRA was founded in the late 1990s by Martin Frenette, following a moment that would shape the rest of his life as a bookseller. While wandering through Montreal’s book district, he discovered the legendary antiquarian shop Giacomo Falconi Bookseller. That encounter sparked a fascination with rare books that soon became a lifelong passion.
The name MFLIBRA reflects that personal journey. MF are Martin’s initials, while “libra” comes from librairie, the French word for bookstore.
For more than three decades, Martin has traveled widely, seeking books that carry more than text on a page. Each volume represents a fragment of cultural memory, a piece of craftsmanship, and often the quiet trace of previous readers. Many individuals have contributed to the story of MFLIBRA over the years, but the guiding principle has always remained the same: a deep respect for the book as an object of history and beauty.
Beyond the books themselves, Martin has long been committed to the community of collectors and bibliophiles. He founded and led “L’Agora des Bibliophiles,” one of the first French language online forums dedicated to rare books, where enthusiasts gathered for many years to share discoveries, knowledge, and their love of the printed page.
Today, MFLIBRA continues to curate a carefully selected collection of antiquarian books across a wide range of subjects, languages, and artistic traditions. Some collectors search for first editions, others for remarkable bindings, illustrations, or simply a book that resonates on a personal level.
For seasoned collectors and new bibliophiles alike, our aim remains the same: to connect people with books that speak to them.
Because every rare book carries a story.
And sometimes, the right book finds the right reader.
The MFLIBRA Antique Books Team
Books with a Soul
