If one good thing comes out of this recession (ooh, yes, I said it...) I hope it's the return of the secondhand bookstore. Because there's nothing like bringing a stack of books in and leaving with an entirely new set. And it's not like a library book where you have to remember to bring them back either (which is where I have a tendency to fall down, I admit)...they're yours to keep, for as long as you wish! Now who doesn't like that?!
The Exchange Bookshop is like that, though they are discerning with regards to what books they will and will not accept. However, they will pay for them if they feel they're worth an investment. And as a result it's a truly pleasurable experience browsing the shelves, as you happen upon titles that you may never otherwise see. And it's not like a charity bookshop where you're basically left with the dregs of what people just plain don't want to keep but feel like an ego boost. The owner's penchant for quality means that you're guaranteed a nice hoard by the end of your visit. Happy days read more