Galway
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Bookstores
Shops offering a range of books, from local literature to international bestsellers.
Sections
1. Charlie Byrneโs Bookshop
- Type: Independent bookstore (new and second-hand books)
- Location: Middle Street, Galway City Centre
- Specialization:
- Wide selection of new and second-hand books across all genres.
- Strong focus on Irish literature, history, and culture.
- Rare and out-of-print books.
- Childrenโs books, cookbooks, travel guides, and more.
- Price Range: Affordable to moderate. Second-hand books are particularly budget-friendly.
- Unique Features:
- A Galway institution and a must-visit for book lovers.
- Cozy, labyrinthine layout with shelves packed to the brim.
- Hosts regular literary events, book launches, and readings.
- Staff are knowledgeable and happy to help you find specific titles or make recommendations.
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM โ 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM โ 6:00 PM
- Accessibility: The shop is located in the city centre and is easily accessible on foot. The interior is somewhat narrow, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users.
- Cultural Tip: This shop is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Irish literature or looking for a unique souvenir. Be sure to check out the Irish-language section for a taste of the countryโs linguistic heritage.
2. Kennys Bookshop & Art Gallery
- Type: Independent bookstore and art gallery (new and second-hand books)
- Location: Liosbรกn Retail Park, Tuam Road, Galway
- Specialization:
- Extensive collection of new, second-hand, and rare books.
- Irish literature, poetry, and history.
- Art books and prints, with a gallery showcasing Irish artists.
- Academic and scholarly books.
- Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on the rarity of the book.
- Unique Features:
- Family-run business with over 80 years of history.
- Online store with worldwide shipping.
- Art gallery on-site, making it a great spot for art and book lovers alike.
- Regular exhibitions and events.
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM โ 5:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays.
- Accessibility: Located outside the city centre, but easily reachable by car or public transport. The shop is spacious and wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Kennys is a great place to explore Galwayโs artistic and literary culture. If youโre unable to visit in person, their online store is an excellent resource for Irish books.
3. Dubray Books
- Type: Chain bookstore (new books)
- Location: Shop Street, Galway City Centre
- Specialization:
- New books across all genres, including bestsellers, fiction, non-fiction, and childrenโs books.
- Strong selection of Irish authors and topics.
- Stationery and gift items.
- Price Range: Moderate to high (standard retail prices for new books).
- Unique Features:
- Bright, modern store with a well-organized layout.
- Staff picks and recommendations prominently displayed.
- Loyalty program for frequent shoppers.
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM โ 6:00 PM
- Accessibility: Centrally located and wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Dubray is a great place to pick up the latest Irish bestsellers or gifts for book-loving friends. Check out their curated Irish literature section for a deeper dive into local culture.
4. Bell, Book & Candle
- Type: Second-hand bookstore
- Location: The Small Crane, Galway City
- Specialization:
- Second-hand books in a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and academic texts.
- Quirky and eclectic selection, with some rare finds.
- Price Range: Very affordable.
- Unique Features:
- A small, charming shop with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Great for browsing and discovering unexpected gems.
- Opening Hours: Hours can vary, so itโs best to call ahead or check their social media for updates.
- Accessibility: Located in a quieter part of the city, but the shop itself is small and may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: This is a hidden gem for book lovers who enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Take your time to explore the shelvesโyou never know what you might find.
5. Eason
- Type: Chain bookstore (new books, stationery, and gifts)
- Location: Shop Street, Galway City Centre
- Specialization:
- New books, including bestsellers, childrenโs books, and school supplies.
- Magazines, newspapers, and stationery.
- Price Range: Moderate (standard retail prices).
- Unique Features:
- Large, well-stocked store with a wide variety of books and non-book items.
- Convenient for picking up travel guides, maps, or last-minute gifts.
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM โ 6:00 PM
- Accessibility: Centrally located and wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: While Eason is a chain store, itโs a reliable option for mainstream titles and practical items like notebooks or pens.
6. Rare and Antiquarian Bookstores
Galway also has a few smaller, specialized shops and markets where you can find rare and antiquarian books. These are often tucked away and may not have regular hours, so itโs worth asking locals or checking online forums for recommendations. Some second-hand shops and charity stores, such as Oxfam or St. Vincent de Paul, also carry books and occasionally have rare finds.
Local Tips for Visiting Bookstores in Galway
- Support Independent Stores: Galwayโs independent bookstores, like Charlie Byrneโs and Kennys, are integral to the cityโs cultural fabric. Shopping here helps sustain the local literary scene.
- Events and Festivals: Galway is a UNESCO City of Film and has a thriving arts scene. Keep an eye out for literary festivals, such as the Cรบirt International Festival of Literature, which often features events at local bookstores.
- Irish Literature: Take the opportunity to explore works by Irish authors, both classic and contemporary. Look for books by James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, Sally Rooney, and Anne Enright, among others.
- Language Considerations: Some bookstores, particularly Charlie Byrneโs, have sections dedicated to books in the Irish language (Gaeilge). Even if you donโt speak Irish, these make for unique and culturally significant souvenirs.
- Cash vs. Card: Most bookstores accept card payments, but itโs always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller second-hand shops.
Conclusion
Galwayโs bookstores are more than just places to buy booksโthey are cultural hubs that reflect the cityโs artistic and literary spirit. Whether youโre looking for the latest bestseller, a rare collectorโs item, or a cozy spot to browse, Galwayโs bookstores have something for everyone. Be sure to explore a mix of new and second-hand shops to fully experience the cityโs literary charm.