The joy of getting wrapped up in a book is second only to the feeling of being totally absorbed by a bookshop. Walls stacked high with our favourite authors, with ideas and stories yet to be uncovered, this is the RUSSH team's idea of heaven. And in a city of plenty, it can be difficult to know where to start. From Berkelouw Bookstore in Paddington to cafe-bookshop hybrids in Avalon, enjoy this love letter from the RUSSH Editors to our favourite Sydney bookstores.
Berkelouw Books, Paddington
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There may be many a Berkelouw, but few compare to the ingenious curation of Berkelouw Bookstore Paddington. This two storey gem tucked closely by UNSW’s Cofa Campus, is a goldmine of good reads. It may stock similar titles to other Berkelouw locations, but the key lies in the excellent curation of the staff. Even better, the second floor also hosts a small cafe, the perfect spot for huddling up with your new find. You really can’t go past Berkelouw Books in Paddington.
Bookoccino, Avalon
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If you find yourself in Sydney’s northern beaches, you’d be remiss not to stop in at Bookoccino in Avalon. A cult-classic favourite among locals, it was one of the first places to burgeon the concept of ‘the bookstore/cafe’ in Sydney a couple of decades ago. But don’t let the shiny cement and timber details of the modern architecture make you forget that there’s soul here. This store is still what it has always been - a pal’s place. You’ll find what you’re looking for, and if it isn’t there, the staff will do their very best to get it for you. Spend way too long browsing, or lounge out on the sunny sidewalk and have a coffee. Stay back late for a wine and jazz night. And read, read, read.
Ariel Booksellers, Paddington
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For those in the East, make Ariel Booksellers in Paddington your go-to for a new read. With a vast selection of fiction and abundant coffee-table books to covet – it's hard to walk past without making a purchase. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, and not shy to strike up a conversation or recommend a book for your next read if you’re stumped on what to indulge in. Oh, and any bookstore that surprises you with a free bookmark slipped inside the pages of your new novel is a great bookstore in our eyes.
Love Vintage Books, Willoughby
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Is there anything better than taking in the heady musk of pre-loved pages and worn-in leather hardbacks? While there is so much on offer online, nothing beats the wonderful feeling of finding a rare vintage bookshop. Love Vintage Books specialises in secondhand, rare and out of print books including transport, military, history, travel, art and architecture. It’s here that we like to sneak in some time to hunt for a hard to find gem. Come for the rarities, stay for the kind hospitality.
Kinokuniya, CBD
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If you've heard of it, chances are Kinokuniya has it. This store, located in the heart of Sydney's CBD (in the Galeries, to be exact) is one of the biggest in the city, and has a vast collection to match. From popular fiction to niches of just about every variety, the staff are also on hand with expert tips if the size is enough to overwhelm you.
The Bookshop, Darlinghurst
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Over on Oxford Street (right near the old Cafe Fredas location) you'll find The Bookshop, which specialises in queer texts. They've been supplying the city with queer books since 1982 and have earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and knowledgeable sellers in the decades since. Authors frequently stop by to sign copies, which is a bonus.
Potts Point Bookshop
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If you like your reads with a sense of community, look no further. In addition to interesting texts (and lots of them), Potts Point Bookshop regularly hosts book club meetings and author's talks, so it's perfect for those looking to meet like-minded readers.
Now that you've found a new source, why not take on some fresh reading material with these 30 books to read before you turn 30?
