Stepping into a second-hand bookshop imitates that of stepping within a memory. They represent a physical emblem of the past. The opportunity to feel the passage of time within the worn pages of a book. Yet this begs the question: why do students continue to love second-hand books? Especially in a time where swift online access could not be easier. The answer is one word — experience. Within a second-hand bookshop, there’s often a deep sense of tenderness and quietness, as that of a library, unreplicable in a bustling chain bookshop. To not mention libraries, would be to disregard a fundamental feature of society. Of course, libraries are a cost-free alternative to second-hand book shopping. We must continue to use and support these institutions.
Overall, these experiences drastically differ from that of scrolling on a screen and placing an order. Why? The unpredictability. One is more likely to come across something unexpected but preloved amongst the eclectic shelves of a second-hand book shop. As if admiring a painting in an art gallery, only this time your favourite can come home with you. It is undeniable that there is a love that comes from collecting books.
Second-hand bookshops are a more sustainable source to create this and indulge those passions. The preloved nature of these books helps to change a culture of perfectionism and pristine condition. Books should be used and cherished. These bookshops drive to tackle the issue of consumerism, whilst not completely, second-hand reduces environmental waste and encourages the practice of lending and sharing books. In place of buying something with a higher price attached. The affordability of this option is incredible favourable for students, particularly alongside all other prevailing costs of student life. In general, bookshops foster a sense of community. For second-hand bookshops, even more so. Many of which are run by charity organisations. For example, Shelter Scotland runs many bookshops, whose profits are used to support and fund research towards the ongoing housing crisis in Scotland. Support for these bookshops supports these necessary organisations.
Nevertheless, second-hand bookshops must continue to compete with independent and chain sellers of bookshops. Each year, many of which are disappearing. However, Edinburgh still has its fair share of these to explore around the city. Some personal recommendations include Armchair Books, just off the Grassmarket, Tills, by the Meadows and certainly, dozens of charity run bookshops for affordable access to a world of literature.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
