It’s important to surround yourself with tomes dedicated to the things you love so we give thanks to the destinations that take the time to search out the best and display them all in a convenient, centralised manner. Here are our go-tos.
Künstler – Brisbane
Full of the latest zines, fashion, food and event books as well as good literary journals and travel guides, Künstler stocks a good balance of local and international publications. It’s all there in very cool wooden box structure that was formerly Atavist Books.
World Food Books – Melbourne
Formerly found in the historical studios of the Nicholas Building, you’ll soon be able to find World Food Books alongside the upcoming Archive store, Shifting Worlds. Since opening in 2010 this independent art book service has been the favourite tucked away spot in the city for a selection of excellently curated books and selected vintage one offs.
Perimeter – Melbourne
With an emphasis on small press and rare books, Perimeter has always been the beacon of art book shops in Melbourne. You can also find Perimeter at the Centre for Contemporary Photography and at the very stylish cafe Mina-no-ie.
www.perimeterbooks.com
Metropolis Bookshop – Melbourne
Found in the iconic Curtain House, Metropolis has always been the no brainer shop for gifts. Covering your paper needs and doing it very well from fictional novels, excellent recipe books, film, graphic, photography, fashion, interior design, architecture, children’s books to the arts, this really is the mecca of books.
The Good Copy – Melbourne
Though not technically solely a book shop, The Good Copy’s selection of novels, magazines and zines is worth popping in to see. From Filmme Fatales by Brodie from the The Good Copy crew, style guides, Rookie to Bad Feminism by Roxane Gay. While your there you can book yourself in for a ‘Grammar Time’ workshop if your grip on punctuation is tenuous.
www.thegoodcopy.com.au
Published Art – Sydney
Specialising in art, architecture, photography and design books, you’re sure to find perfect coffee table friend here. International publishing big shots fill the space. Every book is screened by store manager, Rebekah Lawson ensuring the creme de la creme of art books.
www.publishedart.com.au
Press Books – Sydney
This weekend-only joint has done a very good job at filling in the gap for local publishing in Sydney. This community-focused space is curated by Chris Loutfy and calls on pals from Heavy Collective to contribute regularly. Here you’ll find a excellent array of independently published zines and photo-books. Press Books is also conveniently located next to Corner Cooperative gallery for your viewing pleasure and it’s also a great spot to drop off some film to independent film developers at Hillvale.
www.press-books.co
Apropos.Provisional – Perth
For your art and book fix on the west coast head to Apropos.Provisional. Dedicated to small press and artist’s editions, you’re sure to find something you’ll want to take home here. You’ll also find specialist vinyl and a spot of fashion making this unique concept store perfect for anyone after beautiful tactile objects. www.aproposprovisional.com