History
First editions, association copies, forgotten texts, and books that preserve a particular moment in history.
Montreal · Established in the late 1990s
About MFLIBRA
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.
Martin Frenette
Founder, MFLIBRA Antique Books
Our story
A lifelong passion for rare books
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.
Over the years, Martin has travelled 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, but the guiding principle has always remained the same: a deep respect for the book as an object of history and beauty.
The meaning behind MFLIBRA
MF represents Martin’s initials, while libra comes from librairie, the French word for bookstore.
Our approach
Books selected for more than rarity alone
Every book entering the MFLIBRA collection is considered for the qualities that make it distinctive, meaningful, and worthy of preservation.
Beauty
Remarkable bindings, fine printing, significant illustration, and craftsmanship that gives a book its physical presence.
Connection
Books that resonate personally and create a lasting connection between their history and their next reader.
A community of bibliophiles
L’Agora des Bibliophiles
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. For many years, enthusiasts gathered there to share discoveries, knowledge, and their love of the printed page.
Because every rare book carries a story.
And sometimes, the right book finds the right reader.
MFLIBRA today
Helping the right book find the right reader
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, while others are drawn to remarkable bindings, illustrations, provenance, 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.
Professional affiliations
Part of the international rare-book community
MFLIBRA participates in professional organizations dedicated to integrity, knowledge, and high standards within the international rare-book trade.
Discover MFLIBRA
Find a book with a soul
Explore our current collection or contact us for additional photographs, condition details, provenance information, or assistance locating a particular volume.