Baobab Books, Long Street, Cape Town: Shop Review

Baobab Books
Baobab Mall
210 Long Street | Map

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Specialty: Modern first editions, quality secondhand books (SA and general interest)
Tel: +27 (0) 12 422 3894 cell (0) 83 411 8001
Fax: Same
firsted@iafrica.com
SA Blog recommends a look inside? Definitely

Further Insight & Opinion
Baobab Mall, near the top of Cape Town’s famous Long Street, is a funny little place, home to a handful of shops that manage to eke along. But its dim interior also contains a rare treasure: Baobab Books, Cape Town’s best secondhand bookshop for titles of South African and general interest, and for modern first editions.

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The genial proprietor, Julie Aitchison, keeps her shelves stuffed and tables stacked with thousands of fascinating books – all in good condition – and has an eye for rare volumes, too. If you collect modern firsts, make her shop your first stop. There are also plenty of guides to Cape Town and South Africa scattered around the room, plus a splendid selection of art and history books.

Julie is a keen negotiator, and will extend discounts to customers who make a good case for them – try your luck! Last, she’s one of SA literature’s strongest supporters, and regularly organizes readings from local authors (which usually involve complimentary wine) so don’t forget to enquire about upcoming events. Baobab Books gets SA Logue’s “Best of Cape Town” approval!