Old books abound in Antiquar's warehouse, estimated to be over a century and a half in age.
Unconventional Bibliophile: Arnold Pascher's Literary Trove
Stepping into the heart of Düsseldorf, you'll find the cobblestone-paved Königsallee, a Parisian-esque atmosphere adorned by book enthusiasts during the annual book stroll. Among these vendors, you'll spot the charismatic 70-year-old, Arnold Pascher, a man who embodies the spirit of this event since its inception.
"Back in 1986, there were merely 20 stands selling books, sometimes even on tarpaulins," recalls Pascher, reminiscing about the early days of the book stroll. Today, the event has grown, transforming from a simple literature market to a glamorous affair filled with live music, readings, and an assortment of culinary treats.
But what the Düsseldorf-based bookseller exhibits on the Königsallee is only a tiny fraction of his vast literary treasure trove. His personal collection, housed in a rented warehouse in the neighboring city of Neuss, consists of countless books that could fill an estimated 120 wooden pallets. "Everyone can calculate the total for themselves," grins Pascher. "I'm not counting anymore."
Known as the local literary problem solver, Pascher amassed his collection from various sources, including household clearances and estate sales. In fact, just two months ago, he purchased 1000 children's books from a private residence for 300 euros. "The heirs were really very nice," he shares with a warm smile.
Born and raised in Düsseldorf, Pascher's love for books was instilled at an early age through reading magazines gifted to him by his parents. His first books were the Rin Tin Tin series, followed by Karl May and poems by James Krüss. His affinity for books led him to eventually enter the book trade through a roundabout journey—after studying social pedagogy, working at a children's aid center, and leading an adventure playground.
Despite the influx of online sales, Pascher continues to thrive in the traditional book trade. "I was one of the first to sell over Amazon in the 1990s, I helped make them big, I'm not proud of it, but it was important for survival at the time," he admits. "Today, the internet is more of a curse than a blessing. If I offer a book for 19.99 euros, there's always a retailer who undercuts it."
Arnold Pascher's living relies on the book trade, though he receives a modest pension. "To illustrate this, I hold up my hand and leave little space between my thumb and index finger," he says. Despite the modesty, Pascher remains content with his collection and the knowledge that it continues to grow. "I still have plenty to sell, thanks to the treasure trove of literature I have. Well, to be honest, there are too many books, it's a bit sad, my two daughters aren't even supposed to read some of them. To get rid of them all, I'd have to live to be 150."
For the latest news and updates in Düsseldorf, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Instagram.
In addition to his collection displayed at the annual book stroll on the Königsallee, Arnold Pascher's vast literary treasure trove is housed in a warehouse in Neuss, enough to fill an estimated 120 wooden pallets. This trove includes books from various sources, such as household clearances, estate sales, and even a recent purchase of 1000 children's books for 300 euros from a private residence.
