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Ultimate Guide to Book Shops in Dublin Town

  • Tue, 22 May 2018

Despite us all reading online, you really can’t beat reading a paper/hardback book from cover to cover.

When you’re looking for the latest bestseller to keep you entertained, you’re not shy on choice for book shops in Dublin city. This week, we are bringing you the ultimate guide to Book shops in Dublin Town and where to find them.

Hodges Figgis, Dawson Street

Famously mentioned in James Joyce’s novel Ulysses, Hodges Figgis is Ireland’s largest bookshop. Founded in 1768, the shop is a book enthusiast’s dream. A whimsical building, its three floors are crammed with everything from travel books to cult classics – there’s also a bargain basement!

Eason’s, Stephen’s Green SC and O’Connell Street

Founded in 1886, Eason’s is a key destination for any book fiend; or stationary fiend for that matter. You can rely on Eason’s to stock the most in demand books, as well as the classics. Eason’s on O’Connell St also holds regular book signings and launches, so there’s often a famous face around.

Books Upstairs, D’Olier Street

Celebrating 40 years in business this year, Books Upstairs is one of the oldest Independent Book Stores in Dublin. As part of their many books, they carry an extensive range on world history and literature and always have great offers available. On the first floor, you have the literary café and they have regular readings & literary events that will have you coming back for more!

Chapters, Parnell Street

Chapters on Parnell Street has an extensive range of new and second hand books. There is also a great children’s section that will take you little mites to an other world full of colour and imagination.

The Secret Books and Record Store, Wicklow Street

Shh, don’t tell anyone where you found them! The secret book and record store is a hidden gem that will have to searching for hours through their vast second hand book collection. The added bonus is that they also have a great record collection!

Ulysses Rare Books, Duke Street

Originally named after the oldest surviving Irish manuscript Psalter, The Cathach, this family run bookshop became Ulysses Rare Books on Bloomsday 2013.  It specialises in rare, collectable and antiquarian books from Ireland’s historical and literary past including works by Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett.

Stokes, George’s Street Arcade

Situated in the unique and wonderful George’s Street Arcade, Stokes is a treasure trove for second hand books. You won’t be short on choice when you take a gander through these book shelves!

Dubray, Grafton Street

Formerly known as The Dublin Bookshop, Dubray Books has been on Grafton St since 1990 but moved up the street to its current Grafton Street location after it outgrown its original home. It extends across three floors, and is a popular location for book launches, signings and other events.

Or check out the Central Library in the Ilac Centre to borrow a book! If you are looking for somewhere to read your new book head over to dineindublin.ie for a list of restaurants, coffee shops and eateries where you can sit and relax while you enjoy it!