The greater Cape area is filled with a number of great book stores that are not franchises or international chains. Here are some spots for the province’s book worms to check out.
Bikini Beach Books:
This unassuming book store is located in Gordon’s Bay, and is known as a hub of books within every genre you can imagine. And it doesn’t just stop at fiction and non-fiction books – you can find anything you can imagine here, from self-help books to guides on crystal meditations.
They also stock a variety of bric-a-brac, including seashell chandeliers and ocean-themed nicknacks for your home.
Address: 41 Beach Road, Gordons Bay Central, Cape Town, 7151
Kalk Bay Books:
This book store is a bibliophile’s dream. It has a number of cozy couches to sit and read on, as well as a mezzanine level of literature to tickle the literary mind.
Check it out to find books by local authors you may not be able to get a hold of at larger chain book stores. They stock both new and second-hand books.
Address: Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7990
The Book Lounge:
Located in the heart of Cape Town’s CBD, this independent book store is known for its carefully curated selection which champions local writers. Pay attention to the staff picks, which can be seen on display in-store.
The staff is also known for being friendly, helpful on knowledgeable on the books in-store, and you can grab a great coffee downstairs and while the day away reading your newly-purchased book.
They have also started a podcast to help bibliophiles decided on which books they may want to purchase. Check it out here.
Address: 71 Roeland Street, Cape Town
Clarke’s Book Shop:
Clarke’s is one of Cape Town’s oldest independent book stores, and was established in 1957.
“Founded by Anthony Clarke as a secondhand bookshop, we began specialising in Africana in the 1970s. The new books section began with a shelf of South African books, which has grown to such an extent that we now specialise in books on Africa, with a particular focus on Southern Africa. We still have a wonderful selection of general secondhand and remaindered titles, as well as a room set aside for Africana. We are a library supplier. Our customers include local and international libraries, as well as public libraries in the Western Cape,” the store said.
Address: 199 Long Street, Cape Town 8001
Picture: Pixabay
