Readings is a renowned independent Melbourne book store. They now have six locations around town, but each has its own intentionally unique character - the Hawthorn store is no exception.
These guys know books. But they also 'get' social media and emerging tech; and their range of stocked titles is excellent. In a world of downloadable books and the resultant impact on 'bricks and mortar' stores, they're doing a lot right to keep pace both on and offline. That being said, their in-store staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable in a way that I don't feel an online shopping cart could ever be.
The store location itself was moved a couple of years ago from across the road to its current, bigger location. There's now a dedicated events space that plays host to several groups (a knitting collective!), and through a door at the back is the delightful 'Bread and Jam for Frances' Cafe.
A great place for those of us that occasionally like to indulge in the tactile delight of the bound, printed word. Also the place most responsible for the ever-growing reading pile next to my bed. read more