Fred Bass

Fred Bass (1928-2018) was an American businessman and philanthropist, best known for his long-time ownership and management of the Strand Bookstore in New York City. Although not directly involved in the medical field, Bass's contributions to the literary world and his philanthropic efforts have had a significant impact on the dissemination of medical knowledge.

Early Life and Education

Fred Bass was born in 1928 in New York City. He was the son of Benjamin Bass, the founder of the Strand Bookstore. He began working in the bookstore at the age of 13, learning the ins and outs of the book trade from his father. He attended the City College of New York, where he studied literature and business.

Career

In 1956, Bass took over the management of the Strand Bookstore from his father. Under his leadership, the bookstore expanded from a small used book store to a literary landmark, housing over 2.5 million books. The Strand became known for its extensive collection of rare and out-of-print books, including many medical texts.

Bass was known for his hands-on approach to running the bookstore. He was often seen buying books, working at the cash register, and even helping customers find specific titles. His dedication to the bookstore and his passion for books were key factors in the Strand's success.

Philanthropy

In addition to his work at the Strand, Bass was also a generous philanthropist. He donated books to schools, libraries, and hospitals, helping to spread knowledge and literacy. His donations often included medical textbooks, contributing to the education of countless medical professionals.

Legacy

Fred Bass passed away in 2018, but his legacy lives on in the Strand Bookstore. His daughter, Nancy Bass Wyden, now runs the bookstore, continuing her father's commitment to providing access to a wide range of books, including those in the medical field.

See Also

• Strand Bookstore
• City College of New York
• Philanthropy in the United States

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