It’s no secret we love books. Whether it’s seeking out a new fountain pen ink, rummaging through stacks of vintage books, or finding out more about the latest releases, we’ve got you covered for our favourite locations for book lovers in Tasmania.
Launceston
A beautiful book shop in the heart of Launceston, Quixotic Books is a cosy space filled with hard to find books. Quixotic blends second-hand book spirit with the contemporary by filling it’s shelves with remaindered books that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. They also offer a book finding service, and cosy well appointed rooms for meetings or relaxation. You may even find there’s a puzzle to do!
Open since 1985, Petrach’s is the place for new books in Launceston, with a special emphasis on Tasmanian books and local publications. The front of the store is full of everything you need if you want to get more adventurous in your Tassie travels, with books on hiking, local history, and guide books to native flora and fauna. They also have an excellent selection of current non-fiction lifestyle books ranging from arts and crafts, through to cooking.
Nicholson’s Bookshop is exactly what you might expect of a second-hand book shop. The shelves are stacked tightly with vintage tomes, with a large selection of vintage science fiction. We often pick up interior design books from the 80’s which offer a wealth of inspiration for making our own spaces cosy.
There’s no need to fill up a suitcase with books (on the way here, anyway), when you can drop into any location as a visitor and pick up a visitors library card. With branches across the state you can pick up your holiday reading in Launceston, and return it in Hobart before you head home. Whatever your tastes, you’re like to find many new releases from the library’s very up-to-date catalogue.
Chances are if you like old books, you’ll like beautiful homewares. Stockton and Co is a beautifully appointed shop and we particularly love the look of their locally made ceramics. You will be hard pressed not to walk out with a beautiful, but practical, new souvenir.
For the perfect spot in Launceston to set down with tea, cake, and a new book, we heartily recommend The Dragonfly Tea Atelier. They have a lovely selection of locally made cakes, and speciality tea blends. Dragonfly Tea Atelier is filled with vintage furniture, so you easily choose a comfortable chair to hide away from the world in.
Campbell Town
The Book Cellar at Foxhunter’s Return
Halfway between Launceston and Hobart in the historic Campbell Town you can find the delightful Book Cellar. Boasting a collection of new and old books, it’s entirely possible that you’ll need to call ahead to your next destination and let them know you’ll be late.
Hobart
This independent bookshop is located in Salamanca, near the weekend market, and one of our favourite places to spend an hour (or two) when we’re in Hobart. You’ll find a good selection of new and old books that will delight all book lovers.
Cracked and Spineless New and Used Books
For the more adventurous book lover, we suggest Cracked and Spineless. Precarious stacks of new and used books loom on every corner. It’s delightful and truly wonderful to pass the time checking every corner for that next read.
Located next to the State Cinema, the aptly named State Bookstore has more than just books to peruse. You’ll also find paper goods, stationery, and gifts- perfect for the bibliophile left at home.
If you’re looking for somewhere to take a weight off your feet and take a break in Hobart, we suggest Sunbear Cafe for it’s cute, retro atmosphere, friendly faces and delicious small plates.
New Norfolk
The nearest thing to stepping back in time, Flywheel is the single best place to look for fine stationery and paper goods. Tucked behind the antique store front you’ll want to save a budget to pick up a haul to take home with you. Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to allow yourself to browse at the most sedate pace- you won’t want to miss anything here.
While you’re in New Norfolk, book lovers will absolutely want to stop in at Black Swan Bookshop. With a sunny aspect, and a sunny disposition, Black Swan is an independent bookshop where you can also find that all important elixr- coffee.
Devonport
If you’re stopping through Devonport you can find the charming Devonport Bookshop. Locally owned and independent, there is something for everyone here. If you’re at a loss for what to read next, make sure to ask the staff who will be more than happy to set you up with a new read.
One of our favourite places in Devonport, if you love digging through dusty old things and unearthing hidden treasures, the Antique Emporium is for you. with antiques and wares spread across four floors, you’ll want to make some time for yourself to browse.
