Are you looking for the best bookstores in Cork City?
Cork is a charming city located in the southwest of Ireland known for its historic landmarks, picturesque streets, and vibrant cultural scene.
For book lovers, Cork is a true paradise, with a wealth of independent bookstores that offer an impressive selection of titles, from the latest bestsellers to rare and hard-to-find editions.
Whether you’re a lifelong bibliophile or simply looking for a cozy spot to browse, relax, and immerse yourself in the world of books, Cork’s bookstores are sure to delight.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best bookstores in Cork and give you a glimpse into what makes them special. So grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite chair, and let’s dive into the world of Cork’s bookstores.
Things you'll find in this article
6 Best Bookstores In Cork City
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1. Book World
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Address: Westside Centre, 22 Model Farm Rd, Bishopstown, Cork, T12 WK46, Ireland
Book World is the most reasonably priced online bookstore in all of Ireland and one of the places to buy used books in Cork City.
Through its extensive selection of high-quality pre-owned books, Book World makes reading accessible to people of all ages. Their goal is to dramatically cut back on the number of books that end up in landfills, which will, in turn, positively impact the environment.
This bookstore in Cork City is often considered Ireland’s best-value second-hand bookshop. There are 10000 book titles starting at €2.50, and delivery is free on orders over €20.00.
Book World customers often comment about its excellent service and favorable pricing. Several of them have discovered an abundance of books here, all of which are in remarkable, if not pristine, shape. Book World is a must-visit if you have a passion for rescuing books and revel in the excitement of unearthing obscure titles.
2. Dubray Books
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Address: 83-85 St Patrick’s St, Centre, Cork, T12 FX31, Ireland
Ireland’s premier independent bookstore is Dubray Books. Helen Clear opened the first location in the seaside town of Bray in Co. Wicklow in 1973.
In 1988, Gemma and her husband, Kevin, took over the family business from their mother, Helen.
Since then, the company has expanded to eleven locations across Dublin, including Grafton Street, Dundrum, Cork, Rathmines, Stillorgan, Galway, Blackrock, Dun Laoghaire, Liffey Valley, and Henry Street.
The store in Cork is stunning. While the variety was not as large as some of the more well-known rivals, it was nonetheless excellent. Each staff member exemplified the highest levels of competence, friendliness, and expertise.
Customers of Dubray Books in Cork City appreciate the store’s “soul,” or unique character, as much as they appreciate the helpful and friendly personnel. The staff at this Cork City bookstore would go above and beyond to make avid readers feel at home while they perused the shelves.
New books at reasonable rates may be found on both levels of Dubray Books in Cork City. There is no café inside the bookstore, but there is a chocolate shop at the front. It certainly justifies the short trip.
3. Eason
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Address: 35-36 St Patrick’s St, Centre, Cork, T12 FK20, Ireland
Eason is a well-known chain of stores that sells a variety of publications, including books, newspapers, magazines, greeting cards, and stationery. Their Cork City store, located smack dab in the middle of Patrick Street, is a leisurely three-minute stroll away from English Market.
This shop sells a wide selection of books in addition to other items such as stationery and even little presents, which makes it among the popular bookshops in Cork City.
They have books for school, books for universities (up to a certain limit), and educational publications. There are also books, newspapers, and magazines that focus on current events. They provide a student discount of 10% on stationery and other things, which is not only helpful but also quite valuable.
The staff are kind and will ask if you need assistance in looking for something, and if you do, they will gladly provide it.
Also, Eason is a fantastic store to visit if you need to buy schoolbooks or art supplies. The staff is helpful and knowledgeable about the art tools and books they sell. Upstairs, there is a coffee shop called Insomnia, which is pretty convenient.
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4. The Time Traveller’s Bookshop
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Address: Wandesford Quay (opposite Cafe Paradiso), Cork City, Ireland
The Time Traveller’s Bookstore & Gallery is a rare bookstore that stocks titles from the 16th century to the present. However, they still carry certain current first editions and signed copies of bestselling books, as well as some rare and out-of-print titles.
Hence, don’t be discouraged if you aren’t very interested in antique or historical literature; you’ll still discover something of value here.
Easily one of the most popular bookstores in Cork City, every inch of The Time Traveller’s Bookshop is brightly illuminated by spotlights. The shelves are perfectly arranged to display a colorful assortment of books and artwork.
It’s the ideal spot to kick back with a book that could pique your interest, and chic boxes come complete with cushions. Many record players may be found strewn about the store, and there’s also a beautiful collection of vintage vinyl records for sale.
This is the kind of independent bookshop anyone will enjoy visiting since it brings something new and exciting to the business of selling books.
The lovely staff is also happy to help you choose the right gift for a friend interested in books. Gift certificates are available and can be used at any store if you don’t find what you’re looking for (as they also have a bookshop in West Cork, and County Mayo).
This is the best independent bookstore in Cork, and you should definitely check it out. We love how the store’s name and decor work together to create a nostalgic atmosphere.
5. Vibes & Scribes
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Address: 21 Lavitts Quay CORK Co. Cork
Located in the heart of downtown Cork, this is the best place to buy, sell, or trade books of any kind. Vibes & Scribes is one of the best Cork City bookshops to buy used books.
In 1991, Joan Lucey opened this small bookstore in Macroom, Co. Cork. When Lucey began stocking art materials to match the books, the city now had two Vibes and Scribes outlets. Notably, the Cork store at 21 Lavitt’s Quay offers a wide selection of cheap books.
The oldest independent bookstore in Cork, Vibes, and Scribes sells new, used, and cheap books.
Their collections, whether books or art materials, can easily rival that of Waterstones, which also has a store in Cork City. Go through their selection of Irish books online, or stop by the physical store of this new and used bookstore in the middle of Cork city.
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6. Waterstones
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Address: 69 St Patrick’s St, Centre, Cork, T12 C921, Ireland
Waterstones is a bookstore that sells both popular and intellectual titles, and customers are encouraged to browse. There are cafes in some of their stores.
Cork City’s Waterstones features many excellent works, from the most recent releases to the classics. When you visit, you can expect to be assisted by kind, knowledgeable staff members.
St. Patrick’s Street in Cork has been home to their bookstore since 1988. Spend a relaxing afternoon here perusing their many gift options and books. The helpful booksellers are happy to make suggestions and point you in the direction of whatever you could be looking for, from new releases to obscure classics.
Even if the book you are seeking isn’t there, the staff is friendly and willing to assist you by ordering it. They have a delightful team.
If you have kids of any age, you have to check out their exciting and engaging Children’s section.
Here, young readers and their parents may talk shop with booksellers who specialize in selling books for children. Waterstones is pleased to contribute to the thriving cultural scene in Cork by providing a welcoming space for literary events such as readings, talks, book launches, and signings.
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 60 countries for the past 12 years. I also lived in 4 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia, Africa and now in Europe. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.