Sydney Bookshops
City | Double Bay | Glebe | Newtown | Paddington | Other
The City
131 York Street, Sydney, 2001.Basement shop, mostly remaindered stock, all good condition; but if you are looking for SF you may as well be at the Galaxy Bookshop, around the corner.
George St, The RocksA 10% discount is offered to Internet customers, or a deal for delivery out of Sydney. Contact Robert Pryor (email above) for the details. -->
Skygarden, Castlereagh St. (There are also shops in Ryde/Macquarie Centre, Hornsby, Bondi, and Campbelltown.) [DY, 03/2006]
Many branches around Sydney, all generally well stocked with good selections covering all subject matter. The main branch is at 424-425 George Street, well worth a visit. SF and Fantasy are well-represented in all branches with current UK editions; as is the usual rule, the bigger the shop the bigger the selection. Some SF/Fantasy can also be found in remaindered/discounted tables in some branches, positioned at the entrance.
Dymocks Building, 424-425 George Street
The major branch, especially strong on fiction, also providing guides, maps,
and a decent balcony cafe (art supplies, stationery at Dymocks Stationery
next door at 428 George Street). The basement houses a superb SF/F section
in which can be found plenty of rarities and SF-related toys and DVDs
(almost enough to rival Galaxy) plus a good section on fannish stuff, comics
and marginal literature; also down there is a large, excellent children's
books section with quite a bit of computer-based learning material.
Knowledgable staff on hand to help track something down, and definitely
worth a visit; this is the kind of bookshop that ought to be open late every
evening. [PY, October 2001]
350 George Street: Largish basement branch, good general reference & computing sections.
343-357 Pitt St [11/2006]Galaxy also has a good selection of DVDs, videos and film-related merchandise and recent SF magazines published worldwide, plus frequent signings from famous SF/Fantasy authors and stars (check out the Rogues Gallery in the entrance). Customers are requested to consider the shop a 'spoiler-free zone', forbidding discussion of the latest episodes of Farscape, Buffy, Trek etc., probably with a sordid variety of terrible punishments reserved for transgressors. They also publish Nexus, a free monthly newsletter of brief SF reviews written by its staff, making the entire operation the central focus for Sydney's SF community. [PY, 08/2001 updated 03/2003]
Tel: 9264 8485
Open: Mon-Tue 9am-9.30pm; Wed-Fri 9am-10pm; Sat 9am-10pm; Sun 11am-8.30pm
This shop has a large and well-priced range of secondhand CDs with new stock coming in constantly. The books are also wide-ranging and cheap (though because they're new they're not so cheap as secondhand shops). I buy a lot of new paperback novels here as they have 30% to 50% off. The staff are not particularly helpful, and the name needs updating as there's nary a record in sight. Takes credit cards. [CC]
Similar and close to T. Kelly's, with a good mixture of subject matter, a fairly even spread between hardback and paperback and a limited supply of CDs. The SF/F section is well stocked with UK & US paperbacks from the past 30 years, mostly cheap, with some recent publications in excellent condition, a few rarities. [PY, 08/2001]
Mostly Japanese books, with a few shelves of English books. Very friendly staff, has an interesting manga collection. [LW, 11/2006]
Open: daily, 9am-9pm
These shops (like the George Street Book and Record Exchange) stock new books and secondhand CDs. The range is inferior, however. There are also porn magazines. Takes credit cards. [CC]
Always an excellent selection of recent SF/F/Horror remainders and a good range of decent secondhand SF plus plenty of mainstream and classic fiction. Good selection of CDs. This place really is worth a visit. [PY, 08/2001]
Level 2, The Galeries Victoria, 500 George Street, Sydney 2000. Phone: 9262-7996.A Japanese based chain. A large store which seems to have different suppliers to other chains, so they get some unique new books. Very strong on art, design, manga and Japanese books. [LW, 11/2006]
119 York St, Sydney City 2000.We are a general secondhand & anitquarian bookshop. [owner]
129 York St, Sydney 2000.Covering all things military in recent and ancient history, Napoleons also has a gaming section with a large range of fantasy war-gaming handbooks available going back almost to the dawn of the Dungeons & Dragons era! The shop also does special orders, catalogues and mail orders. [PY, updated 11/2006]
Surry HillsA specialist art bookshop.
Tel: 9211 0178, Fax: 9280 4638
M, Tu, W, Th, F 9.45am-7pm; Th 9.45am-9pm; Sa 9.45am-7pm; Su 11.30am-7pm
Serving Sydney since 1935. Small SF paperback section, but much else of interest, especially dusty old hardbacks. May have to move soon due to exhorbitantly high rent. [PY, 08/2001]
Liverpool St opposite Hyde Park. Travel guides, maps, travel writings, travel accessories, phrase books, language tapes/CD's, pictorials, adventure travel, books on cycling, surfing, diving and mountaineering.Glebe
For Glebe bookshops, see the Glebe Log bookshop category.
Paul Feain112 Glebe Point Road (PO Box 336), Glebe 2037
Phone: 660-4889, 552-1070, Fax: 552-2670
Open: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm
The Cornstalk is a well-stocked secondhand bookshop with reasonable prices (for example, they know that hardcover blockbusters aren't worth anything, so they are all priced at $5). The shop is also highly organised and the staff are generally friendly. If you are searching for anything special they will take details and hunt for you. Two other features are an attractive and ever-changing window display and a wonderful glass cabinet filled with antiquarian and special interest books. These are mostly wildly expensive, but looking at them is pleasure enough. [CC]
Secondhand & antiquarian: printed music; scores; books about music. The stock is listed online.
6 rooms of second hand music - books, sheets, scores, programs, crammed into an atmospheric old 2 storey shop in Glebe. A music-lover's heaven. Friendly and knowledgeable staff (well we like to think so). Occasional catalogues. [owner]
Forest Lodge.A specialist in gardening, botany, and related areas. Has some secondhand books, with coverage of quite obscure topics. [DY, 2007]
GlebeRight across from the school where they hold markets on the weekends. Lots of new releases, academic books, good section on drama, a huge amount of stuff on lifestyle, classic literature and "modern" novels. Some SF/F. (LR)
Vies with Abbeys for the status of Sydney's best bookshop. Exceptional philosophy and cultural studies stock, but also solid holdings in other academic areas. [DY]
GlebePhoenix Rising is a small shop, but it is well lit and has a pleasant, open layout. The stock is a broad range of "alternative" and "esoteric" works - transpersonal psychology, deep ecology, self transformation, Eastern religions, natural therapies, etc. This is not my personal cup of tea (though I found a few scattered gems), but if it's what you are after then this would be a good place to look; it's conveniently close to Gleebooks, too. Their web page has a collection of short reviews. [DY]
165 Glebe Pt Rd, Glebe 2037'Sappho Books' looks as though it was organised by a group of obsessive-compulsives... which in fact it was. For example, the Drama section is divided into five clearly labelled and alphabetically arranged sub-sections. While we have excellent Humanities areas, the strength of 'Sappho Books' lies in its extensive Fiction sections, contemporary, classic, crime and popular titles, plus a large selection of science fiction and fantasy. Contrary to the expectations of many, 'Sappho' is not a lesbian bookshop, although Women's Studies and Gay/Lesbian literature are well represented. [owner]
Newtown
265 King Street, NewtownThe latest addition to the Newtown bookshop scene, Better Read Than Dead has an attractive open layout and lounge chairs to sit on while perusing the stock. [DY 19/8/96]
Black Rose carries a wide range of anarchist, subversive, interesting, useful, amusing, frightening and just plain out of the ordinary books, periodicals, fanzines, t-shirts, posters, patches, videos, badges, magnets, hats, ethical beverages, stickers and the cheapst internet prices in town ($2/hour).
161 King Street, Newtown 2042 (nr Missenden Rd cnr)Ph: 519 7602. Mail: PO Box 7, Newtown 2042.
Open: 7 days 11am-12midnight
This is a pleasant, somewhat dusty secondhand bookshop which is reasonably well-organized ('classic' fiction is separated from 'popular' fiction, most of the areas actually contain books which are relevant to the labels). Records are a specialty. They produce a catalogue (very small print) which they post to interested parties. Prices are reasonable and the staff friendly. New stock is coming in all the time. [CC]
Ph: 9519 6097; Fax: 9519 6097
Not a huge range of books, and mostly best-sellers. [DY 21/8/96]
197 King Street, Newtown (cnr Egan Street)Secondhand and out-of-print, imported publisher's remainders, paperback book exchange. The latest addition to Elizabeth's seven store empire (which started in Perth WA in 1973)! Specializes in esoteric art and photography books imported from UK and USA, Literature, and History. Even stocks Children's Books. [employee, 12/2003]
414 King Street, Newtown (South)
This is a small, selective and well-maintained bookshop with very reasonable prices and an 'academic' feel to it. The opening hours are a pain - I have often stumbled off the train at Newtown and hared down King Street at 9 AM only to be disappointed! Cash only. [CC]
Ph: 9519 6191; Fax: 9516 2342
Open: Mon-Wed 9am-8pm; Thu 9am-9pm; Fri 9am-8pm; Sat 9.30am-7pm; Sun 10am-7pm
Modern Times is actually two shops - a stationery shop on the right and a bookshop on the left. The bookshop doesn't have a large stock (and it's mostly popular titles), but it does offer a 15% discount on new releases. Not a patch on the famous Modern Times bookshop in San Francisco, but a good place to browse while waiting for the bus. [DY 08/1996]
83 King St. Used literature, history, philosophy, poetry, and quaint and curious books. [09/2004]University of Sydney (City Road)
Email: secondhand.bookshop@src.usyd.edu.au
Ph: 9660 4756
This student council bookshop buys and sells textbooks. They will also sell other books on very reasonable commission. I use this shop to sell unwanted review copies. [DY, 07/2001]
Darlinghurst/Paddington
Oxford Street, Paddington Oxford Street, Paddington. (There are also shops in Leichardt and Berrima.)For at least a decade visiting the Berkelouw's Book Barn at Berrima has been one of the highlights of any trip to the Southern Highlands. Paul Berkelouw's card declares that the family have been "antiquarian bookdealers since 1812" - that's a long tradition. This shop is large and airy, with a range of new and secondhand stock. Prices are reasonable, although there are few real "steals" on the shelves. Paddington is a little out of the way for me (I'm firmly based at the University of Sydney main campus) but I go out of my way to check on Berkelouw's approximately once per month. [CC]
See also their "book hampers" site.
A gay and lesbian book store. 126 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst (next to Oxford Hotel)Tries to be a 'straight' but 'gay friendly' secondhand bookshop in Darlinghurst. Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, Gay Literature, Art & Design, etc. [employee, 12/2003]
Specialises in second hand Art books, but has a good selection of literature, music, philosophy and archaeology. Very friendly and knowledgeable proprietor. [PC]
Other Suburbs
Epping 2121
Books and Bits on Bronte is a secondhand bookshop, selling friendly service, recommendations and advice. quality books in all genres, kid's toys, gifts and stationery.
Children of all ages are welcome for free readings. [owner, 11/2006]
A computer book specialist in North Sydney.
They also have a small (but perfectly formed) adult book section, which is great because it means I can sneak up the back and choose something for myself while the kids are distracted! [July 2008]
A careful selection of fine second-hand and antiquarian books.
NarrabeenWe buy and sell secondhand books, with a range of over 50 000 titles. Our main topics include Australiana, Art, Military, Boating and Literature. [owner, 03/2007]
We are small and yet substantial bookshop located in the Centre for Ministry, 16 Masons Drive, North Parramatta 2151
Shelves and shelves of books from all genres. Has a non-fiction room called the Hemingway room, which boasts an amazing chess table for patrons to sit and play; lots of other games are also available. The café is run by the same owner and is successful its own right. [employee, 05/2004]
Open 7 DaysDealers in Fine, Old & Rare books. Catalogues for Bushranging & Colonial Crime and Travel & Exploration are online.
We are primarily a mail order bookshop, but do welcome browsers. Our books have to do with the area of interest of Eremos Institute, which publishes a quarterly magazine. Christian spirituality, psychology and religion, meditation and prayer, liturgy resources, spiritual direction, personal growth, books which explore and question institutional religion. Eremos is a self funded by its national membership of 900 (and therefore struggling) ecumenical organisation promoting dialogue about faith and the things that matter deeply to us. [owner]
Shop 4, 504 Pacific Highway, St LeonardsSpecialise in computer books, especially the more expert ones - web site has searchable catalog.
Shop 22 Civic Arcade, 48-50 George Street, ParramattaThey will do mail order. The store is only small, but has a very good range. It also has the Discworld figurines on sale (the first to have them in Australia). Friendly staff of two, who both will make an effort to help you find your book. Meetings to discuss issues in SF/F.
My preferred specialty store, as I find the staff much friendler than Galaxy and Phantasia is too far away for me. I do travel to Parra instead of the city even tho I live on the North Shore and work in the city (proof of my bias). [anonymous]
Ph: 9969 7466
John sells second-hand books as a front for his real business of being a bum. As a bum he has attempted and has failed to write the great novel and has lain about reading this and that and has talked and talked and talked about what he might do someday. The second-hand bookshop was established a couple of years ago and against all expectation it has been success. John does not wear success well so don't let on that you know that John's Bookshop is worthy of praise.
On any given day you'll find him loitering about his shop in Mosman Cache spouting some dusty opinion to a bored and frightened pensioner or you might see him typing up the latest edition of his infamous newsletter. Either way the best advice I can give you is this - just visit the store for the best selection of books at the lowest prices and try not to upset the natives. [owner]
127 Trafalgar St, Annandale 2038 Parramatta Road Petersham (near Norton St)An anarchist bookshop.
North Parramatta and Castle HillA specialist religious and educational bookshop. [08/2006]
Ph: 9798 9994 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-2pm
Large, somewhat untidy suburban bookshop/exchange. Has the advantages and disadvantages of this status: the stock is of very uneven quality, but it is very cheap. Neil is a quiet but friendly ex-bank manager who saw the light, and is willing to search for books if you give him details. Cash only. [CC]
North Sydney, 2060
Ph: 9957 1830
Fax: 9957 2316
Email: northsydneybooks@bigpond.com.au
Operating in the North Sydney are for over 15 years, we deal in all areas (except text books). Unlike other book stores, we also have a wide range of new & secondhand DVDs. [owner]
Open: Sun-Tue 10am-6pm; Wed-Sat 10am-10pm
This is a small yet surprisingly richly stocked bookshop in a wonderful location (if you can ignore the aircraft noise). Breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee can all be had from many delightful cafes in the surrounding two or three blocks, and a visit to the Norton Street Bookshop has capped off my gastronomic pleasures often. The stock is all new and mostly market price, but reasons for shopping there include: the staff are lovely; they let you have publishers' posters when they have finished with them (if you ask nicely - I have the Walker Books bear on my study door due to this generosity); and they stock excellent "present" books and sell wrapping paper and cards too. [CC]
Excellent selection, the owners are knowledgeable and friendly, excellent prices. The hours and days are limited, but if needed you can probably make an appointment. Sorry I don't have the phone number, but this shop is definitely worth looking into for History and Literature, including a good selection of Australian literature. Mostly old books, probably ~50,000 titles (estimate) or more. As the name indicates, the bookshop is in an old church. [AL]
Specialist in SF/Fantasy/Mystery.
Glen St, Belrose 2085
Email: pages@enternet.com.au
We are a general bookshop with a specialised Children's Department. We opened in July 1995 and steadily built a reputation for having an excellent range and providing exceptional service. The Bookshop is situated in the Glenrose Shopping Centre in Glen St. Belrose with convenient parking facilities. We conduct a regular programme of author visits for both adult & children's authors. This information can be found in our regular newsletter which we send out to our recorded mailing list. Orders are accepted via email. [owner]
Surry HillsSpecialising in contemporary art, architecture and design.
Only current titles are stocked and selected from the best international publishers, the books are all displayed as they are meant to be with their covers visible. If you are looking for a book that is still in print and has been difficult to find, just ask and we will attempt to locate this for you. With such a high turnover of stock customers benefit most by periodic visits. [owner, 04/04]
Dee Why.We stock contemporary and classic fiction plus biographies, history, travel and exploration, sport, and many other subject areas. [owner, April 2002]
Norton St, Leichhardt.Populated by uni students, this second-hand shop has a great selection. Lots of books and very little room to move in. The owner is a frightenly organised woman who has owned the place for years. [Rae, March 04]
Tyrrell's used to be among the best secondhand bookshops in Sydney, but since old Mr Tyrrell died and the shop's been redone (and moved upstairs), it's moved to the antiquarian. [DY]
AL = A. Light
CC = Carole Cusack
DY = Danny Yee (book reviews)
LR = Leanne Richard
PC = Peter Chubb
PY = Pete Young