Community bookshops offer more than just shelves of books, providing spaces for creatives to thrive, a platforms for local artists, and a gathering spot for booklovers. Read on to learn about the top indie bookstores in Melbourne.
The joy of reading not only depends on the book itself, but also the environment one is reading in. This is precisely the beauty of independent bookstores. With a fine selection of books and uniquely designed interiors, they create a cozy atmosphere that draws visitors to spend hours per stay- an atmosphere online book retailers and large bookstore chains have a more difficult time recreating. With a vibrant artistic and creative community, Melbourne is home to many indie bookstores attracting locals and tourists alike to their shelves.
Paperback Bookshop
Established in the early 1960s, Paperback Bookshop provides a vast array of books, including new releases, covering a wide range of genres- from fiction to classics. Being an iconic indie bookstore in Melbourne, Paperback not only offers books to visitors, but also opportunities for them to engage with them at a deeper level. Its paperback listening sessions (also available on their Youtube channel) allow people to listen to the background stories of authors in Melbourne.
Address: 60 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Hill of Content Bookshop
With the aim of providing a discerning range of books in a pleasant environment, Hill of Content Bookshop takes pride in its selection of books and personalised customer service. Being the oldest bookstore in Melbourne, established in a period of recession, the staff will surprise you with their exquisite knowledge and deep understanding of books and literature, making the bookstore one of the finest places to visit and spend time at, a bucket list item for any booklover.
Address: 86 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Readings
Unlike ordinary bookstores, Readings is an independent retailer of books, music and film, with seven shops operating in Melbourne. With the aim of spreading the vitality of literary heritage, the indie bookshop hosts various events such as in-conversations, panels, author signings, special in-store performances, and book launches. Moreover, considering themselves as a cornerstone of the Australian literary landscape, Readings donates 10% of its annual profits to The Reading Foundation that aids the work of organisations that respond to the needs of disadvantaged groups living in our community.
Address: 309 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia (Click here for other locations)
Metropolis Bookshop
Metropolis Bookshop offers a vast selection of books focusing on various fields- art, architecture, photography, counterculture, music, and design. With its particular scope of interest, the bookstore invites art and graphic enthusiasts around the city, offering many sources of inspiration for their new projects.
Address: Curtin, House Level 3/252 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Perimeter Books
With its deep engagement in photography, art, theory, design, and architecture, Perimeter Books stocks independently published books, editions, and zines that mainly target contemporary artists and designers. Unlike conventional bookstores, Perimeter Books has also curated various outposts and libraries for institutions, galleries and spaces.
Address: 748 High St, Thornbury VIC 3071, Australia
The Sun Bookshop
An independent bookstore in the vibrant inner-city community of Yarraville, The Sun Bookshop presents a selection of fiction, art, science, and crime books, and even a small selection of funky artistic cards and puzzles. The indie bookstore hosts various events, including monthly book clubs for children and book launch sessions for local authors in the region.
Address: 10 Ballarat St, Yarraville VIC 3013, Australia
Happy Valley
As a unique indie bookstore in Melbourne, Happy Valley has a fabulous array of books, vinyls, and art pieces for people looking for a place to buy eclectic gifts for others or themselves. Taking a deep pride in its selection of gift options, the bookshop welcomes both local and international visitors in the region.
Address: 294 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
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