Harvard Book Store is pleased to offer readers membership into our Signed First Edition Club. This program provides a unique way for readers to connect with and create a wealth of great books. Each month, Harvard Book Store offers members a signed first printing of a newly published book, selected for both its literary merit and potential collectibility.

FAQ

Why should I join Harvard Book Store's Signed First Edition Club? 

Each month, members receive a premium book of recent publication. A collection of signed first editions will enhance any library, and many signed first editions appreciate in value. Also, your membership supports Harvard Book Store, a landmark literary institution, and helps ensure that the store will exist--and continue to host its award-winning author event series--for years to come.

What is a signed first edition? Why is it valuable? 

A first edition is the original printing of a book. First editions are distinguished from subsequent printings, as they represent the closest edition in time and intent to the author's original work. A signed first edition is a unique addition to any library, and to dealers and collectors, a signed first edition is the most desirable--and valuable--edition.

What sort of books will I receive? 

Harvard Book Store’s selections represent the forefront of literary fiction and nonfiction and reflect the acclaimed authors hosted by the store’s award-winning event series. View previous selections here and upcoming selections here. The books in this program are guaranteed first editions, signed by the author. Each book arrives in pristine condition with its jacket in a transparent protective wrapping to extend the life of the book.

How much does membership cost? 

Membership is free. All you pay is the publisher's list price on the book ($22 - $28 on average per month) and a flat shipping charge for us to send the book to your home each month. You may also choose to pick up your selection each month at Harvard Book Store at no additional charge.

May I give a membership as a gift? 

Of course! A gift subscription is a thoughtful, sui generis present for loved ones, recent grads, and newlyweds alike. You may choose to give a gift membership for six months, one year, or indefinitely, and you may cancel the membership at any time. Harvard Book Store also offers free gift wrapping, provided at your request. You may download and print out a gift insert to give to the recipient. The inserts are available for six months, one year, and indefinite memberships.

Do I have to provide my credit card number? 

Yes. In order to efficiently manage this unique program, Harvard Book Store requires that all members provide a credit card number upon sign-up.

What if I don't want a certain month's selection? 

In order to bring you this exclusive club with no handling or service charges, Harvard Book Store stipulates that members with six month and one year memberships may not refuse selections. Those with ongoing memberships may refuse up to two (2) books in a calendar year. To refuse a selection, members must respond within ten days to the title announcement email.

May I return a selection? 

No. All Signed First Edition titles, after purchase, are non-refundable and non-returnable. Those with ongoing memberships may refuse up to two (2) titles during a calendar year. To refuse a selection, members must respond within ten days to the title announcement email.

I’m signed up to pick up my books in the store. What happens if I forget to retrieve my book? 

Harvard Book Store will hold books that are marked for pickup at the bookstore for three months. At that time, Harvard Book Store will charge you the flat shipping rate and ship the books to your home.

I received a call/email about my expired/declined credit card. What do I do? 

If your card is expired/declined, we will contact you immediately. Please call the store directly at 617-661-1515 to update your credit card information. If Harvard Book Store does not receive updated credit card information within one month, your membership will be cancelled. Know your credit card is about to expire? Please contact us so there is no disruption in your membership.

Is there a limit to how many people can sign up? 

Yes. As signed first editions are difficult to procure in large quantities, Harvard Book Store must limit the number of members. If the member limit is exceeded, a wait list will be started.

Do the books I purchase through the Club add to my Frequent Buyer Card balance? 

Absolutely. However, the Frequent Buyer discount does not apply to our Signed First Edition club offerings.

I have a question that isn't answered here. Whom do I ask? 

Ask a bookseller in the store, call us at (617) 661-1515, or write to signedfirst@harvardsquarebookstore.com.

How do I sign up? 

 Sign up in the store or sign up online.

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Giving a Signed First Edition Membership as a Gift?

You may choose to give a gift membership for six months, one year, or indefinitely, and you may cancel the membership at any time. Harvard Book Store also offers free gift wrapping, provided at your request.

After completing the Sign Up form, you may download and print out a handy gift insert to give to the recipient:

• 6 Month Gift Membership
• 1 Year Gift Membership
• Indefinite Gift Membership