Why Cambridge is Bliss for Book Lovers
From haunted bookshops to vintage versions and three-storey superstores with fab stationery, Cambridge is a book-lovers dream. And that’s before we’ve even touched on the library.
Here are some of our favourite hang-out havens for getting lost between the pages of a fascinating tome or two:
The Haunted Bookshop
If you like the idea of bumping into an apparition or two while book browsing then Sarah Keys Bookshop – also known as The Haunted Bookshop – is for you.
Having said that…the last sighting was 25 years ago but then, that’s not to say you won’t be the fortunate one.
The previous owner of this 18th-century building regularly spotted a ghostly male figure hanging out in the basement.
Sarah herself was privy to the sighting of a white-gowned female walking up the stairs to the shop one afternoon – who disappeared as soon as she got there.
This shop specialises in children’s and illustrated books and, as you’d imagine, has lots of little corners to get lost in.
G David Bookseller
Step out of Sarah’s, head down Edward’s Passage a bit and you’ll come across a rather charming shop named G David Bookseller.
This proprietor of antiquated books is often in possession of a rare first edition. This is the place to find an old forgotten book that is now out of print.
Heffers Bookshop
Now 146-years-old, Heffer Bookshop offers three storeys of books, mixed in with stationery, games, comics, and even the odd musical instrument or two. This is also where you’ll come to meet your favourite author or spend an evening at a fun writing and reading event.
There are no ghosts here but plenty of famous writers have walked down its long galleries. And, there’s even a book about the bookshop.
Meanwhile, staff have a reputation for friendliness: @heffers.co.uk “Our friendly booksellers are on hand to help you with your choices if you’re not sure where to start.”
And what about the libraries of Cambridge? The town has six which are open to the public and where it’s possible to borrow up to 12 books at a time.
Cambridge Central Library
The largest of the public libraries, Cambridge Central sits in the Grand Arcade in the centre of the city. As well as books, it also offers a huge selection of DVDs and the BFI Mediatheque with more than 1500 British film and television titles.
There are Storytime and Rhyme time sessions for kids and a Youth Support Service. It’s open seven days a week, with no café on a Sunday.
Rock Road Library
As well as a host of books, computers and access to scanners, free wi-fi and a photocopier, this lovely library has a community garden to sit at.
Named after the residential street in which it sits, the library also has a community room for hire and on-street parking. Kids can also enjoy storytime events.
Thinking of moving to Cambridge and keen to know more about what is happening in this great city?
Then take a look through our other articles on our blog at www.checked-inn.com today.