Usually a pleasant experience to go to the Avid Reader . They have some exciting new books that have just been released on display. Most often high stock levels which is great, you can always get a diverse range of books and there's usually many copies available. They also stock some cards and a few other little small gift items. The shop is always tidy and books are well sorted into categories. On my last visit it was quite difficult to make a book selection as people were talking very loudly. Also in the cafe at the back some people were with their laptops conducting meetings or FaceTime talking extremely loudly, seemingly unaware of other people around them. Some folk very emotional or opinionated. Perhaps this is a result of covid-19 isolation where people haven't remembered to consider others around them..??? as they are used to being just in their own environment? Management could gently help the general atmosphere perhaps. Not expecting an old fashioned silent library but we really don't need others fallout and some comfort would add to sales. Still a fantastic book selection!!!

Avid Reader is always a joy. So buzzy and friendly. I wish they still had the coffee shop at the back, but it's still a really uplifting experience to visit and browse their vast collection. I never come away empty-handed. They have many book clubs too, that run throughout each month at regular times. I attend the crime book book club on the first Saturday afternoon of each month. We had a really interesting and engaging discussion yesterday - can't wait for next month when we'll discuss the book of a local, Brisbane writer. Avid Reader supports local writers and have helped me launch my two books of poetry. Their events calendar is always packed with interesting writer's talks and launches. Check out their website for details. In the era of online book sales and the closure of many large and small book shops, Avid is a surviver and a thriver.

Such a beautiful book store in WestEnd. A great range of popular and niche books. A pleasant atmosphere and very friendly staff. The kind of book store you could happily peruse all day. Close to lots of other stores and coffee shops. The events they host out the back are also wonderful. Their website is also easy to navigate and order from instead of going in store. Although this store has a nice, boutique and small-business feel, the prices are standard and affordable. A great place to shop if you want to make your book purchases at a small, local business. They support local authors which is great! They also sell a large range of stationary and gifts (games etc). Check out their website for all the great events and book clubs they host. I strongly recommend checking out this location at least once.

Visited the Avid Reader for the first time to see Alan Baxter as he signed his new book, Devouring Dark. I was quite surprised to find an assortment of snacks and wine awaiting me, with really friendly staff (all obviously great avid readers). Along with a wide variety of books of different genres at the store to peek my interest. We were then lead to the back patio of the bookstore to where fans could sit and listen to the authors discuss the intricate details that helped mould their novel. I have been to a few author signings before, at Supanova and at a few other book stores, but I have to say this has been the most delightful and interesting store yet! I'm keen to see what more this store has to offer in the future.

The local bookshop - this place has been put together with intelligence, mystery, community, style and practicality. If you love books and discovery this pocket of the world's creativity will not disappoint. I come here to fossick, to buy , to have coffee and when in doubt for gifts or if I wonder what to do for a few hours or a few minutes. On a practical note - It has always cost me less here than buying from amazon for example - but that's a practical note and there are more beautiful reasons than that. Have a beautiful day. Another great reason.... I buy books for friends and business associates.... And they gift wrap them for me.... Great and knowlegable staff... And lovely to boot

Unbelievable, thank you! My son was fortunate enough to receive a book award from his school this year. The school instructed him to go on the avid readers website and order a book that he liked at the value of up to $50. He found a book that he loved and placed the order. Very generous people at avid reader realized that there was a hard cover version of that book and substituted that for his order because they thought he would appreciate it more. They even marked down to fit within the school’s budget. You just don’t get service like that these days, except at avid Rita’s apparently. Thanks guys, much appreciated!

Thank you for creating a great bookstore. The most wonderful range of books - many titles you won’t find elsewhere. As someone who likens a visit to a good bookstore as one of life’s true pleasures, the word to describe the Avid Reader is “HEAVENLY”. As an added bonus, the shop is staffed by people who clearly love books as well as our world. I just spent one of the most enjoyable hours of 2023 in this magical place. This is what a truly great bookshop should be - like the Avid Reader in West End. I long to return. ❤️

This is my favourite book shop in Brisbane (I guess there's not that many left anyway). It's always a great experience here because it's so nice to see a bookstore dedicated to literature and not just whatever will make a quick buck (looking at you airport bookshops). Everytime I go here, I feel like I'm among friends and I am always spoilt for choice. The staff are always friendly and helpful, and most importantly, willing to talk books. Warning - impossible to leave empty-handed, be prepared.

I have enjoyed watching this store expand its offerings to include a stronger focus on international literature. I would like to see more, but appreciate that I am just one individual. I like their support for local and emerging writers, and I have to say that their coffee is exceptional, which honestly - who would expect that? I’d like to see a dedicated Australian literature section as well, particularly now as that part of the literary world seems to be flourishing

Easily the best bookshop in Brisbane. Staff are very knowledgeable and always happy to help. Avid have a great range of stock and will order anything in that they don't have on the shelf. I love the online order with in store pickup service. Easily as convenient as other online book stores, with the added feel-good factor of supporting a local business who puts great events on for the community and supports local writers. Keep on being awesome Avid!

Very good general bookstore s This has been one of go tos for decades right in the heart of West End! They have material for general readers too release cooking travel And the coffee table books special architectural works magazine sand the staff are always happy to get in special orders for you They have an extensive offering s of author s nights throughout the year In fact sometimes it’s every night of the week

This is a superb bookshop with a fantastic cafe. It’s the best place to enjoy some peace and quiet and a coffee; away from the general bustle of West End. The people who work here are down to earth and happy. The coffee and the food is better than most other places in the area. Coupled with an extensive collection of books, this place is just the best. I hope you enjoy this place as much as I do. Cheers

Man, I love this bookshop! My favourite in Briz. I make sure to drop in to the music and literature sections often. The staff are really cool, and proper lovers of books/writers/artists and humans! Avid also host these ahmm, presentations, events, book openings, artist presentations... and more. Very cool, wine and cheese... and something new! P.S. Yes I've bought a few fantastic books from Avid Reader.

The range of books is wide to satisfy anyone. The staff are very friendly and helpful. I’ve attended 3 book launches arranged by Avid Reader and they’ve been super interesting with opportunity to ask questions of the authors. The last couple were Archie Roach and Ranjana Srivastava. Location wise is perfect too although parking may be challenging during peak hours. Well worth a visit.

Absolutely loving Avid Reader bookshop! The staff here is truly fantastic and goes above and beyond to accommodate your needs. On a few occasions when they didn't have a specific book in stock, they swiftly placed an order and kept me informed about its arrival. This level of service really sets them apart. Overall, Avid Reader is hands down my favorite spot in West End!

Always a great vibe and excellent range of books you need, want and didn't know existed. If they don't have it the friendly staff cN always order it. The prices are spot on and their specials are downright bargains. Great independent bookstore. I wonder if a restaurant used to be the resident at one point intime as the staff stairs scream 70s, 80s restaurant.

Tremendous place. Attended a book launch here tonight, which was wonderful and well run. Have been here as a customer many times and always buy too many books. Beautifully curated selection of book-adjacent items and incredible books by a diverse range of authors. Easy to find books by women, by people of colour and by local authors. Fantastic staff.

After searching high and low for a book I was wanting for a gift that was needed on short notice, the team from Avid Reader came to the rescue. Exceptional customer service, fast delivery and happy to help attitude made the stress of finding this book worthwhile. Thanks again Avid Reader. P.S The boss needs to shout you guys a morning coffee

Best bookshop in Brisbane without fail. Open late every night of the week, and it has more events than you could ever possibly attend. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff, many of them authors themselves. If you are visiting Brisbane, it will be replete without a visit to this esteemed bookstore. If it were to close, I think I would move.

A Brisbane West End jewel. Wonderful range for diverse reading pleasure. Excellent staff & extensive monthly program. If Avid Reader haven't got the book you want, they source it without fuss in short time at a competitive price. A local bookshop punching above its weight with local, national and international books and clients.

I wanted to go in and restock some reading material, but as soon as I saw the YES sign in the door ;for the divisive Voice referendum) I didn’t bother going in. What a shame, I used to love this store. Keep politics out of retail and instead of virtue signalling, ask what is happening to the 34 billion that is spent annually….

Good review. If it's the bookstore I'm thinking of i quite some time ago would buy the best non fiction usually music related Re: bands, soloist & tours then I could return the book when finished & they would let me +? Swap it for another being of similar price. If that's the one "EXCELLENT" book store. Worth a look.

I love that they arrange to have Authors come and talk about their work. It is great that they inform readers about the events and give them plenty of lead-in time to arrange to get there. The book + event deal is good too. The bookshop has a nice ambiance with a little cafe and outside deck to enjoy your new book.

Fiona and her team - Helen, Trent and all the others know their stuff and ask you the questions to ascertain what you are REALLY wanting to find .... Next door Where the Wild Things Are, is a book shop that is a child's delight - experiences with texts that enliven an interest in how to read. Another world ...!

I attended a Graeme Simsion workshop here. It was SO well organised. Collecting my book at the counter was seamless, you could get drinks (this surprised me), the venue was open air but covered (ideal if you're a bit covid-anxious) plus of course the workshop was amazing. It really exceeded expectations.

You can't beat an indie bookstore cross cafe. Avid boasts an excellent selection of books you don't usually find in your standard bookstore and a beautiful little courtyard cafe. Highly recommend stopping in if you're in the area. You'll walk out with some new knowledge and a happy tummy.

Best book shop in Brisbane. A must visit if you're travelling from out of state, make sure to drop by where the wild things are too! To the right of the entrance is the fiction and to the left is non-fiction (and so much more). This place is special and simply heavenly for all book lovers

A classic West End institute, I've been here more than hundred times im sure. Awesome location with some great ties with the community. A constant stream of new and exciting books makes a visit here feels like a crossroads between great stories if I only I could actually choose one book.

I love this bookshop. As an avid reader myself, and the VERY proud grandmother of 6 younger avid readers I support independent bookshops whenever I can. The friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere make this a wonderful place to visit, especially with a grand child or two in tow.

Me and my son love the shop,however when we entered today, a lady sitting in the bookclub area told us: "this is an Australian book club " in a racist tone. Totally killing the atmosphere. I hope whoever love the book can have an open mind and I hope she is not the staff here.

This place had such a nostalgic feel. I wound through the rows and tables of books to the back courtyard for a book signing. The intimate setting created a personalised experience which was enhanced by sincere and helpful staff. Online ordering of tickets was hassle free.

Such a great book store in a wonderful part of town. I really enjoyed the book review although I think several folks turned up who hadn't booked because it was very squished. Unsurprising when the author speaking was Graeme Simsion. The talk was really interesting.

An adorable quaint book store. Friendly staff, vibrant eye catching displays & a wine bar! This book store is an independent one and facilitates meet & greet with authors. As well as events to hear author readings & questions, also book signings. Great atmosphere

A Brisbane institution. Always love browsing and relish leaving with a new book. The recommendations are helpful both in person and on cards around the store. Staff are great. What's most important is their collection, and it is great. Coffee is not bad too...

Quaint and relatively small but this store offers a wide range of books across all different genres, and you are bound to find a hidden gem. The prices are great as well and the staff are incredibly helpful. By far one of the best book stores in Brisbane.

My favourite Brisbane indy bookstore! The store is small but the heart is big and the books are fabulously well curated. Make the most of your experience here and join one of the many bookclubs that meet monthly with complimentary tea or glass of wine.

Terrific place with surprising stock at times. Have met a sizable amount of my favourite writers through their events. I just wish their poetry section was larger/as large as their other sections, but I could say the same thing about any bookshop.

My go to book store. Excellent range, service and ethos. Frequent author talks and visits and I adore the kids bookstore connected/next door (where the wild things are). Between these two, I have all my gifts and personal reading sorted.

I love the great selection and cute atmosphere of the bookshop. Always friendly service. During the lockdown, I've also been lucky enough to get books delivered from Avid Reader, they came the same day and saved me from boredom!

Love this place. It's a local owned business but it's also multi cultural. You can find books about indigenous, Japanese, and more. BTW their lovely staff won't mind if you just stand there and read books. Highly recommend

Avid is a bit of an institution in Brisbane's West End. It is the quintessential bookstore, with an additional focus on serving the writing community. Always a joy to browse and find the perfect bookish gift.

One of my favourite bookstores in west end. I always love the selection of cards they offer and the cute merch found at the back of the store. The people there are always super friendly too …

Thrilled with my paperblanks diary, received in a few days in perfect condition. I had rung to check it was the exact one I wanted and Amy even measured the diary for me. Lovely service. …

Avid Reader is an independent bookshop offering a wide range of quality titles. In the great tradition of independents, Avid draws the best & brightest authors to launch & share their books.

Great book shop with a huge range. Easy to order anything specific, friendly customer service. Great events too, well worth attending based on the multiple I've been to over the years.

An amazing place to buy gifts for others or yourself! With a dedication to supporting local authors and indigenous authors, this is one local business you absolutely want to frequent!

A very nice aesthetic vibe in the shop and outside. Amazing catering and a wide range of goods to explore. I've had a great night here at a book event. Felt like a real life podcast.

Saw the fabulous Patrice Newell speak about her book, Who's Minding The Farm? Great staff and a gorgeous book store. Forget Lord Mayor Sallyann Atkinson, also there on the night.

I told the staff this because it is true...best book store ever! And we visit book stores everywhere we go. Best thing is now live near this store so will be there ALL the time!

My absolute favorite book store!!! Such a wonderful collection of books and the perfect atmosphere for quiet browsing! I go at least once a week to see what’s new!

Wonderful bookshop with really good staff - especially in "Where The Wild Things Are" kids shop. My grandchildren love it. Prices are not cheap but it's worth it.

Great selection of books. Reasonable prices. Friendly staff. You are sure to find at least a suitcase of books you will love. Was amazed at the variety of books.

Among my favourite places in Brisbane. An example of all that is great about independent booksellers. Impossible to leave empty-handed, so be warned.

Great little book and gift shop with a great reputation. I visited it as a kind of tourist destination from Western Australia. It did not disappoint.

Very special little bookstore with a great range of books and a quaint little cafe, serving great cafe food and drinks by lovely friendly staff.

Brilliant local bookshop that will always have a hidden gem. The staff are amazing and are always willing to help you out. Thoroughly recommend.

What a fabulous find for readers everywhere! They have stocked my book, The Real Me and host book launches almost daily. It's a busy sanctuary!

Brilliant choice of books with stock not otherwise provided at standard retailers; knowledgeable staff and can always pick up a good bargain.

Favourite local bookshop! Great range of books and local small publications too. Amazing author talks and good loyalty system …

Such a cute bookstore, my only gripe is pricing. I want to support privately owned bookstores but it's hard on a limited budget.

Fantastic range of books that will provide a new literary adventure! Lovely staff and a real sense of a deep love for books.

One of Brisbane's best bookshops! Wonderful staff, excellent selection of books and bookish gifts and fabulous events too.

Kind welcoming staff, and the selection is fantastic. Great coffee table books, and really good selection of periodicals.

Cute little bookstore, had a book that I was after and alot more. Beautiful range of categories and vibe, will be back

Might seem a bit higgledy piggledy at first but has a great selection of books and genuinely nice and informed staff.

Best bookshop in Brisbane.... happily drive here from anywhere in Brissy as the West End experience is the best

Awesome staff and great management !! Awesome selection of books !! and they have a kids store next door.

Really great bookstore with super friendly staff! The readings and author signings are really great too!

Staff are well informed. They source some good contemporary graphic novels, sometimes quite obscure.

Found the book I was looking for in under 5 minutes, a very well organised bookstore!

It's the Pivot place to look for Great books, great service and a Friendly smile

Good bookstore, selection a little too woke but they stock decent classics.

Fantastic bookstore. Knowledgeable staff and a great assortment of books.

Favourite bookstore by far! Excellent selection and pleasant vibe

Love this book shop! They always have so many interesting finds.

great layout, lots of books to choose from, friendly staff

Great little bookshop. Lots of hidden gem books.

Great selection of reads and welcoming staff.

Great bookshop. Extensive range of brain food

Wonderful range. Beautifully laid out.