I messaged the store today via Facebook messenger to enquire about selling second hand books and CDs. After receiving a reply saying that it depends on if they can sell them, I simply asked if I could send a photograph of the items so that they could tell me what they would and would not take. I live a bit away from town and so wanted to avoid bringing in any unnecessary weight with me on the train in future. The reply I received was not only unnecessarily rude, it was also inappropriate. I've attached a screenshot of the message I received. This is a copy and pasted version of it here: "Hi Sarah. I can't be bothered with all this back and forth stuff. I'm just too old and cranky for it. But because I'm not actually a nasty person I've thought of a compromise. I see you're currently engaged in using up my tax money in Trinners. How about you take the photos and then wander up to my shop and show me. That way my index finger will be freed up from this tedious tap taping torture." They sent this after sending one previous message. I'm not sure if that constitutes as "back and forth stuff". As someone who has visited the store previously, and hasn't had a bad experience before, I was appalled by the unprofessional demeanour of the message, as well as the very inappropriate comment about where I attend college. It felt very condescending, and where I attend college definitely should not be a factor. Furthermore, if they are "too old and cranky" to actually provide pleasant customer service, they, quite frankly, should should either not be in business, find a younger and more pleasant replacement, or adopt a more amicable demeanour. In future, I would recommend anyone looking to sell second hand books and CDs to this store maybe give them to charity or find another way of selling them on, so as not to inconvenience this second-hand book store, and free them from "tedious tap tapping torture".

one of those hidden little gems which, if relatively new to the city like me, one can find only if they take a left or right turn off the beaten tourist tracks of downtown dublin. but the pleasure of finding it is worthwhile the search! it's a store for every generation, those who grew up on grunge or heavy-metal and generation z alike! a collection of second-hand books is wonderful and the staff is amazing. as a book lover and collector i always preferred to purchase from small, independent family bookshops. and since the covid madness and lockdown started i felt an even stronger urge to continue supporting the secret book and record store. so, the other day i contacted them to inquire about the book i kinda wanted to have in my library and although i was willing to go there and collect it myself at the doors (as shops are now restricted from having customers inside), dermot offered to personally drop by at my wife's work place and deliver it himself! so... all i can say is i hope that they, being small and independent, will survive this weird times - because the joy of spending time in the store itself and going slowly over the book titles and their record collection is an unparalleled experience for every book and music lover.

Very impressed by the service of this shop and the quality of their books. Delivery was by someone from the shop one day after I ordered. The quality of the books was outstanding. I thought I bought second hand books, but most of these books look better than new and more expensive books I've bought in my life! The books are very, very fair priced. One book was apparently not in stock anymore and the books included a note with a long explanation and how sorry they were (also the man who delivered the books extensively apologised). Not long after I got a refund for the book that was not in stock anymore. Will definitely order from here again!

I've been ordering books from here for a while now and this bookstore is a real gem. If the wide variety of books and fantastic offers they have wasn't enough, Fiachra adds a handwritten note to the bill that makes me smile every single time. Is like getting a message in a bottle! I thought their online prices were for 2nd hand books because they have such great prices. They're not. So this is also a great place for birthdays and Christmas presents if you want to gift a non-used book. Run by kind and fun people. Best bookstore in Ireland.

You don't often meet rude employees in Ireland, but if that is what you are looking for, this is the place to go. Maybe the guy was hungover. Maybe he was just hangry (definitely not a guy who misses a lot of meals). Maybe my face reminded him of a bully from high school. Or maybe he was just having a bad day. We all have 'em. Dublin is a lovely city. Trinity College. Christ Church. Dublin Castle. The National Museum. Temple Bar. The Brazen Head. St Stephen's Green. This shop was the only negative experience of my entire visit.

I've been coming here since I was a kid. I love this place and wouldn't change a single thing about it. Hands down the best book shop in Dublin. I always find absolute gems in this place and the staff are absolutely lovely and extremely helpful. Recently I used their online service and I would also rate it top marks. There was even a little hand written note on the receipt from Fiachra. What a lovely touch! Definitely recommend this place!

I came to Dublin to enjoy the local bookshop scene. The city has a wonderful array of them. But if you could only visit one I wholehearthedly recommend this one. They have an amazing variety of books. From the classics to really peculiar specimens. The shop has this amazing atmospehere and it's super cool how it also contains a great record store. Besides that the books are also very reasonably priced! Totally recommended!

Since about 16, every time I'm in Dublin I have to go to the secret bookshop. Since covid I've been ordering off them online frequently, super quick delivery AND in November I noticed a little note with the order form thanking me and wishing me well, an individual handwritten note has been on every form since and I so appreciate it. Gorgeous store owners and excellent selection especially for artists!

I was delighted to find out about The Secret Book Store and have been even more delighted with the excellent service and quality of my purchases. Delivery is always fast (around two days or so) and the prices are great. As mentioned in other reviews, the inclusion of a handwritten note of thanks is a really nice touch. I'm pleased to have joined the ranks of satisfied customers...

I really love this place. It's a bit hidden, but google it on google maps and you'll definitely find it. The collection of books is pretty good and be prepared to find hidden gems on the shelves. The records collection looks good enough and I was able to find some records that are pretty hard to find, so if you're treasure hunting - don't skip this place.

Unique bohemian space that I love. So we'll hidden, it is a delight to enter the expansive shop, after negotiating the narrower and quite long 'secret' passageway. You can get lost in a timewarp here. There are huge selections of books available at very reasonable prices. A record shop inhabits the end of the space. Highly recommend. Never change.

Ordered from here after seeing an ad on tik tok. I got 4 books for €20, delivery was free and the books are in perfect condition. They came in the post not even 24 hours after I ordered them! Super impressed will definitely be ordering again. The handwritten note was a lovely touch too. Have recommended to loads already :)

I love the sections on Irish History, and the collection of Sci-Fi is a treasure. Received my second tranche of Covid Time books today. Now to find a comfy corner and re-educate myself on early 20th. century Ireland. That's my early winter hibernation sorted. ( no pun intended..) Thank you for the speed of delivery, Pól

I ordered two books on 17th of march and they were delivered on 19th of march. With the books there was a thank you note written by hand. I am impressed by the attention they put in and I hope they never change this regardless of level of success. I would definitely buy again from them

Very dusty place but you can find old and new books and vinyls along with some classics as well. The categories are kind of messed up in this store so it isn't the best for browsing, but if you have a book in mind you can always head to staff as they are helpful so they can find it for you.

Accessed down a longish corridor , this is one of the longest established used book and record shops in town. Good for SF (new , bargain and secondhand) , a good selection of history, fiction and Irish interest. One of those used bookshops with boxes everywhere, usually a good sign

Must visit for all classic collection and best place in Dublin for bookworms. The owner is really friendly and warm. He ensured to give the entire book of wrapping paper to my kid. Very lovely person. I will come back soon to return your rest of the unused wrapping paper :)

One of my absolute favourite bookstores to frequent. The selection is killer, tons of classics and unorthodox pickings, plenty to pick up you wouldn't have otherwise considered. I like it for the fantastic range of classic fantasy novels on offer. Definitely a must-go.

This shop is full of wonderfully niche books and records you could probably live without but don't want to. If you're looking for a copy of one of the classics such as Dante's inferno or 1984 I would heavily recommend this shop. Don't be dissuaded by the entrance.

Ordered some good November reads during lockdown. Great collection, fair prices and fast delivery. All books are in "like-new" condition. Package even arrived with a little personal note. Very charming. Can't wait to visit the store once restrictions are gone.

I ordered a book online and I was greeted with a handwritten note thanking me for my order. This was a really nice touch and I highly recommend this place! I will definitely be getting books from here again and hopefully one day travel to the shop itself.

Ordered online and had a very positive experience. Fast dispatch and a handwritten personal note and some bookmarks included. Incredible prices. I had compared with other online retailers and this shop was cheaper. Amazing. Would recommend to anyone.

I received my order today. I'm so impressed!! The website is so easy to use and they offer so much selection. The prices are even better. I LOVED the personal touches on my receipt. I can't wait to visit in person when they open the doors again ❤

Hey, if anyone is thinking of purchasing books definitely check out The Secret Bookstore. I bought off them online but they also have a physical shop on Wicklow Street Dublin. It's so important to support great Irish businesses. Thank you …

What a discovery! Trying to buy local during all this rigmarole and stumble across The Secret Book and Record Store. Their selection is great, and the prices are even better - got all these for just €20! The delivery was quick (2 days) and

I got 4 books for my 10 year old recently and she was delighted with them. I don't normally leave reviews but I have to say I definitely recommend this shop. The books were just 5e each with free delivery ( over 20e), but what impressed me

Its almost supernatural but every time I come here I have ALWAYS found something I didn't know existed but I immediately want to read! I know that sounds like hyperbole but its true! The price is always a bargain too! Highly recommended!!

Hard to find, but worth stumbling into. It's a cool place to look around for second-hand books, CDs, & records. The staff is friendly & helpful. I think I spent an hour in this tiny shop, going through only a little bit of what they have.

Have only been able to shop online so far but can’t wait to visit in person. Great range of books and unbelievable value. Arrived really quickly in immaculate condition and with a lovely hand written note. Thanks for the great service !

A great hidden gem of a bookstore in the heart of Dublin. They’re online book sales service is also excellent. Most titles only €4 or €5 with free postage on orders over €20. Brilliant value and swift delivery. Well worth checking out

Lovley little stashed book and record shop off the beaten path. You never know what you'll find when you go in. Never leave empty handed . Friendly chilled atmosphere. Lovley spot to browse if you have a few hours to kill in town.

Just picked up a few books online from them. Incredibly quick delivery, great selection and to top it off they left a lovely handwritten note inside. Support local if you can! Can’t wait to be back inside the shop in the future!

I always stop in here for a gander when I'm in town. Its not your average bookstore and you never know what you might find on any given day. The prices are the cheaper side for those who don't want to spend a fortune.

Brilliant from start to finish. Great selection fast delivery and website very easy to use. Fantastic prices and pleasantly surprised to find that some were actually hardback. Definitely visit when in Dublin again.

Wow..wandered in just out of curiosity, and spent 45 minutes browsing everything. Records, books, CDs.. all here. Ended up finding quite a bit. Good prices and an interesting location. Definitely worth a visit.

Brilliant, ordered four books . They arrived so quickly and we're as brand new, immaculate condition! A lovely hand written note accompanied my delivery. Could not recommend this store highly enough

One of Dublins hidden treasures, full of hard to find books, records cds & dvds.The staff are both friendly & knowledgeable. I come here at least once a month and rarely leave without a purchase.

The secret bookstore is a genuine joy to do business with, I've been lucky to experience it in store and online, cannot recommend enough. There online website is as fantastic as browsing in store

Lovely ! Cheap new books and even cheaper previously loved books. The main man is brilliant as well. I recommend you visit during a heatwave as you might catch him in a string vest …

A very cozy shop, in the centre of Dublin. Lots of used books and records. Great Jazz selection, with rare records at the good price. Worth the visit (with high probabiliy you'll buy something).

Amazing selection of books at very good prices. I talked to Dermot on the phone and he was extremely helpful in finding a book for me so I could finish off an important essay. Thanks very much!

I've loved this place for years. Quirky 2and hand books and records, CDs etc. Great place for presents, stocking fillers and good music going back through the ages. I rarely leave empty handed.

Great bookstore with plenty of choices and good prices and superb service. Books got lost on the mail and they hand delivered the order the next day after I contacted the Secret Bookstore.

Really great books, last time I was here there was a wall of new editions of 1 euro classics, great bargains. The record section in the corner has some good tunes also. Great for browsing.

We have ordered lots of books form here and its amazing. For work, the kids, every area is covered and with very quick delivery. Extremely happy to highly recommend. (love the notes too)

Just ordered two books and a diary, and it came shockingly quick! The books were in perfect condition, and they even included bookmarks and a nice message! The price is also amazing!

I would tell you how amazing it is, with a bizarre and eclectic collection of the most fantastic books. Friendly and helpful staff, with a great vibe. I would, but it's a secret...

There is many an Easter egg just within reach. More than you can spot but not overwhelming. Just the rewarding shuffle around and friendly staff that helps keeps me coming back.

Just received my first order and I'm delighted. Fantastic value, fast shipping and a lovely handwritten note with the books. Looking forward to going there in person when I can.

what a charming place! just went there on a trip and the sellers were so helpful and nice! they even gave me and my friend notebooks! thank you so much for the nice experience !

Amazing little find in the middle of Dublin city, well worth a visit. Reasonably priced as well. Wide variety, its so easy to pass away an hour delving through the shelves

Great little bookshop. Some terrific value and great finds. Their website is brilliant too and orders ship very quickly. Couldn’t recommend it more, in person or online.

Great selection of fiction, non- fiction and classics. Always new books out on the floor so there are usually new books every time you visit. Very good prices and deals

Great service,ordered books and got delivered within two days,1/3 the price of any other book shops or online retailers when I looked. Wouldn't buy anywhere else again.

Ordered three books and they came in no time. All in excellent condition and all for very affordable prices. 10/10 would recommend if you were looking to buy online.

Ordered some books online, and had them the following day. Very efficient, great prices and a nice touch with the note and bookmarks. Would definitely recommend!

The best place to get new and 2nd hand CD's in Dublin. Excellent selection of vinyl too. And if books are your thing, I'm sure you'll enjoy the experience too

Lovely hidden bookshop with a nice vibe. Lots of shelves and piles of books to dig through. The messy setup adds to the charm of hunting for great used books.

Great book store. One of the rare ones that are not managed by accountants ;) Great advise from the owner, wide choice of books in store, even wider - online

I ve put an order in the morning and by afternoon it was ready to be picked. Fiachra and her colleagues are really good. Not even Amazon could do that.

Very cool store with much books and music for a good price. The girl behind the counter seemed a bit annoyed but all in all something I recommend

A real treasure trove in the heart of Dublin. A great place to hunt for new and near-new books, as well as a whole host of different vinyls.

Very friendly service with some excellent quality products very happy with the quality of vinyl I have got second hand or new …

This is one of my favourite shops in Dublin. Be warned, it's a glue pot and you might find yourself sponsored than you wished too.

the book selection isn't always my cup of tea but its hard to argue with their prices. a very good collection in the record store

Brilliant shop! They have lots of selection between CDs, records, books, notebooks and more. Would recommend a look in any time.

Great spot. Second hand books and vinyl section at the back. Feels like a part of Dublin that has survived from the 80s.

Friendly staff and good selection of vinyls and CDs. Eccellent prices even for the new ones. A must see for collectors.

Amazing hidden shop. Books are different from fun to historic. Great value. Perfect place to while away an hour or two.

Ordered a book online. Arrived the next day. Thanks for the lovely message with the book You guys are amazing ✨ …

Wonderful place. Have been a customer for 20+ years of & on. Whenever I’m back home, it’s a place I always swing by.

Good choice of old magazines and vinyl discs. Not much value for new goods but second hand can turn up bargains.

What a fantastic bookshop! I absolutely love the selection and I got what I wanted. Highly recommended.

Excellent selection of books at very reasonable prices and great customer service! Highly recommend! :)

Not easy to find (obviously) but a great selection of vinyl and CDs both new and second hand.

Very tasteful selection of books & records. Something special, full of good surprises …

SO GOOD! the guys there are spot on and know their sh*t Books are dirty cheap. Just great

One of the last independent music shops in Dublin. Always worth a look

Placed order at 4pm and received it the next day. Amazing prices too

It appears to be closed. They may just be doing online orders now?

Very cute bookstore with a good selection of books and records.

Quiet, almost "secret." Interesting books. Though a bit small.

Takes me back to the 90s when music mattered and mp3 didn't.

Nice little hidden stores. You can find some real gems here.

Hidden gem, really great stuff and great for browsing!

Very well stocked. Helpful staff. Decent prices

Not an usual place. Really worth it.

One of the best bookshops in Dublin

Great secondhand book shop.

Good prices, lovely people!