There is something quite enchanting about a local independent. They are a treasure trove of inspiration – it’s like stepping into another world.
Here in Perth, we are so very fortunate to have so many. They are places that once you are in, it can be so very hard to peel yourself away; book shopping is my favourite type of shopping. I can’t walk past a bookshop without having a look around, and that normally involves purchasing a book or two.
Sometimes the huge online retailers are useful, however, nothing beats the surroundings, smell, or inspiration that comes from visiting a great independent. The world without beautiful bookshops would be so very dull and disheartening!
Here is a list of our favourite book nooks in Perth. (In no particular order)
Coffee and books are a match made in heaven and Millpoint Caffe and bookshop do it perfectly. Such a charming, homely place with couches and seating amongst the bookshelves and courtyard seating area too. This is the perfect place for a coffee catch up with friends and there is an enormous basket of books in the cafe area just right for small hands — such an inviting warm place. A wonderful selection of books and some beautiful quotes written on the bookshelves make for a relaxing visit every time — the perfect place for bookworms.
If you haven’t been to Paper Bird in Fremantle yet, then you are missing out on a great little children’s bookstore where there is a lot happening. They have a beautiful and broad selection of books. And they are next door to Moore and Moore Cafe and Gallery, so you don’t have to go far to fuel your tummy after perusing their shelves. They have amazing events like book launches, book clubs and other bookish activities and Inkling Art Space run creative workshops and art classes for kids. We love the cosy space. The courtyard is a magical setting with a vast tree just right for reading a newly purchased story under or listening to an enchanted story time.
Completely charming from the moment you walk through the door and the staff are so very knowledgeable and approachable. The jazz softly playing sets a serene, relaxing tone with a great setup. This place has the most wonderful children’s area, an interactive space just perfect for inspiring little bookworms, and the section for tweens and young adults is amazing. One of the best in town—My eldest (13) is an avid reader and loves this store.
They also hold many events for young and old- just check out their packed calendar, I love how community-minded this store is.
After browsing their shelves, it is only a 2-minute walk to The Mary Street Bakery – life just can’t get better…
Crow books is one of those places that until you go in, you didn’t know you needed it! A place full of inspiring reads of the latest, greatest and completely unique, just waiting to be discovered. I always head to the children’s section first, as it is my favourite part of any bookstore; I love how the picture books are displayed and how the store is set up. We love The Imp or Antz Inya Pants for a coffee afterwards. The bagels at Antz are amazing.
They also own New Edition in Fremantle, another appealing store with a beautiful shop front. The children’s section is jam-packed with amazing titles and I love the tables of books around and the gift section. I love how whatever title I ask for they always seem to have it in somewhere nestled on the packed shelves.
Another wonderful place we love for coffee and a snack is Bread in Common in Fremantle, just a couple of streets away. They have the tastiest bread around. It is always a good pit stop with a book in hand.
We love Lane bookshop, you will find them down the most beautiful tiled walkway in Claremont. From the very moment you enter you are transported into a cosy, homely place with more choices than you need. Lane Books have an amazing choice and we especially love the children’s section with its squashy chairs and colourful rug, just perfect to relax and read a few books before finding the perfect purchase.
The Lane cafe opposite is yummy too. The bookshop is near Claremont Quarter with lots of great dining options to check out.
The new kid on the block is Rabble books in Maylands. Not only does this place sell amazing books, but they have an outstanding games section too! And like me, if you have a thing for dice, they have a heap of funky ones. They pack the shelves with a vast assortment and also have lots of books that feature diversity and books featuring different family set-ups.
Sam and Nat are super friendly and the shop has a welcoming vibe. Once you have made a purchase or two head on over to Smoults Larder and relax with their amazing coffee and freshly made assortment of delightful food, I can recommend the Arancini balls!
To find out about events in your area and to celebrate all things books visit The Love Your Bookshop website
