The 10 Most Interesting Bookshops in the World

on 18th Jul 2012

It is argued that print is slowly becoming a dying art. The various technological advancements that we currently have are slowly replacing our need for printed materials. Nowadays, the majority of us exchange and acquire information through the online world. Most of us have gotten used to the idea of convenience; of having everything handed to us with just a click of a mouse. We have electronic versions for almost everything. Currently, we have electronic books, electronic albums, online magazines (yes, the irony), online clothing stores and even online grocery stores. It’s a fast-paced world that we live in. But if every now and then, we learn to slow down and take a breath we might just realize that the world is full of many beautiful places.

Print is not a dying art. Well, it doesn’t have to be. There are so many beautiful bookshops and libraries in the world. And maybe if we pay some of them a visit, minds might just change about the beauty of print.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires

Et Ateneo, Image via David on Flickr

A spectacular bookstore that retained all the glamour from its former life as a 1920s movie palace. It still has the original balconies, painted ceiling, ornate carvings and crimson stage curtains.

Livraria da Vila, Sao Paulo

It is the result of the refurbishment of a two-story house. The store features a variety of ambiences. Customers can either withdraw in low-ceilinged, cozy settings and read peacefully in couches or chairs, or wander through its scenic spaces.

Ler Devagar, Lisbon

Located in the LX Factory and built in 1864 to manufacture thread and fabric. Ler Devagar stocks a large selection of books across two floors of space.

Shakespeare & Company, Paris

Shakespeare & Co., Image via Alexandre Duret-Lutz on Flickr

The original shop, which was opened by American Sylvia Beach, was a library, publisher, and boarding house. Shakespeare & Company was also featured in Ernest Hemingway’s memoir, A Moveable Feast.

Plural Bookshop in Bratislava, Slovakia

In the daytime, its chunky wooden steps provide seats for anyone having a leaf through the books, while during events and talks they can be filled with rows of spectators.

Daunt Books, Marylebone

Daunt Books. Image via Helga's Lobster Stew on Flickr

Is an original Edwardian bookshop with long oak galleries, graceful skylights and William Morris prints.

Chapters Runnymede, Toronto

Located on Bloor St. West, the bookstore was originally a theatre that opened in the 1920′s. Chapters bought the theatre in 1999 and left few of the old theatre style seats scattered throughout the store for shoppers to enjoy.

Corso Como Bookshop, Milan

Founded in 1990 by gallerist and publisher Carla Sozzani, Corso Como. It is dedicated to art, fashion and design.

Brazenhead Books, New York

A secret bookstore that’s been tucked away in Michael Seidenberg’s apartment on the Upper East Side since the rent for his original retail space in Brooklyn was quadrupled.

Selexyz Bookstore, Maastricht

Selexyz Bookstore, Image via Kevin Gessner on Flickr

Built inside a former 800 year old Dominican church, this bookstore is said to hold the largest collection of books in one of the oldest cities in the country.