Supporting local businesses: 7 great independent Irish bookshops to choose from

There’s no denying that the past year has been tough on everyone. Businesses everywhere have been severely affected, with the constant wave of uncertainty and yoyo-ing back-and-forth of opening and closing every couple of months hitting local sellers particularly hard. Independent bookshops are the absolute gems of every city and town, bringing a sense of individuality and that extra cosiness you’ll struggle to find in your local Eason’s.

Many independent Irish retailers have moved online until restrictions ease, so we’ve compiled a list of 7 great independent Irish bookshops to order from when you’re selecting your next lockdown reads.

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Philip’s Bookshop, Cork

Located in Mallow, Philip’s Bookshop is a family-run business that stocks a wide range of items, from kids books to jigsaws to toys. They pride themselves on their excellent customer service, and with most of their stock available to order for home delivery on their website, they also offer the option of giving them a call for any specific requirements you might need.

Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop, Galway

Charlie Byrne’s is Galway’s largest independent bookshop, carrying over 100,000 new, second-hand and bargain books. They are also known to restock their shelves almost every day, as well as stocking those hard-to-get-your-hands-on titles.

Gutter Bookshop, Dublin

Gutter Bookshop have two stores in Dublin, one in Temple Bar and one in Dalkey, but are currently just operating a post-out service from their Temple Bar store. They’ve got a huge range of titles to choose from as well as stationery, and also offer free postage in the Republic of Ireland on orders over €30!

O’Mahony’s Booksellers, Limerick

Ireland’s largest independent bookseller, with locations now in Ennis, Tralee, Galway and Limerick, O’Mahony’s was originally founded in 1902 on Limerick’s O’Connell Street and trades from this same location to this day. O’Mahony’s pride themselves on their extensive book knowledge and customer service and their website boasts a wide range of books, including schoolbooks and college textbooks, as well as jigsaws, candles, stationery, and greeting cards.

Woodbine Books, Kildare

Located in Kilcullen, Co. Kildare, Woodbine Books is relatively new on the scene, having just opened its doors in 2016. Regardless, in that short time, the guys at Woodbine Books have become renowned for their amazing service and extensive knowledge of the world of books. You can check out their full range on their website, including the book bundles they offer – for €35, you can buy a selection of books from a specific genre hand-picked by staff.

The Book Centre, Waterford

The Book Centre is a family-run business set up in 1971, with locations in Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford and Naas. They have a great range of all genres, all available on their website, as well as a “Bargain Books” section for those on a budget, with free delivery in the Republic of Ireland on orders over €30.

Just Books, Westmeath

Just Books is a charming local bookshop located in the heart of Mullingar, Westmeath. They pride themselves on adding a personal touch to your shopping experience, and at present, their website is stocked with their full range. You can also head over to their Facebook page for some in-depth book reviews by the staff, and Just Books are also offering free delivery in the Republic of Ireland on all orders over €50.