Genres vary, but the joy of cracking open a fresh book, and smelling the crisp pages, is a feeling many of us know and love.
At The Jolly Swagman, we’re always on the lookout for our next favourite read – whether we’re exploring a new place or snuggled up at home.
If you’re perusing Perth and craving a literary fix – here’s our curated selection of Perth’s best bookshops.
Planet Books Mount Lawley
An independent bookstore that has been a staple of Perth’s literary scene since 2006, Planet Books has a diverse collection of reads, from bestsellers to rare finds. Pick up a fiction, non-fiction, graphic novel, romance, thriller or something else – the store also offers a selection of gifts, boardgames, figurines, stationery and more.

Typeface
Another independent bookstore with plenty of charm is Typeface Books in Applecross Village Shopping Centre. Packed with a curated selection of new releases, literary fiction, reads from Australian authors, and more – we love Typeface for its inviting atmosphere. The store offers a monthly book club which allows all kinds of readers a cosy space to come together for in-depth literary chats.

Diabolik Books and Records
A vibrant haven for pop-culture fiends, Diabolik Books and Records is a must-visit with a diverse selection of books – from fiction and non-fiction to graphic novels and vinyl records. Head down to explore a curated collection of art books plus notebooks, games, gifts, and more. We love Diabolik Books and Records for its creative atmosphere that makes you want to spend hours browsing the aisles.

Crow Books
Crow Books is a cherished bookstore in East Victoria Park. It has become a staple for local readers, offering a selection of literature, from contemporary fiction to rare titles. The inviting atmosphere is the perfect scene for a couple hours of relaxation. Take a break on one of the seats – Crow Books encourages visitors to stay a little longer and explore at their own pace. If you need a recommendation or a place to start – speak to the knowledgeable staff, they know all the best reads.

Open Book
Nestled in a secret garden on Wellington Street in Mosman Park is Open Book. This literary jaunt was founded by a local reader, Jessie Hilton, on the belief that a great book can shape our lives. With a carefully selected range of books spanning various genres, there’s something for everyone. Open Book hosts a range of events throughout the year, including book clubs, author talks, and story time sessions for young budding readers.

Millpoint Caffe Bookshop
With its vibrant purple facade, Millpoint Caffe Bookshop is impossible to miss – and often, even harder to leave. Sitting pretty on Mill Point Road in South Perth, the local gem blends the charm of an independent bookstore with the comfort of a cosy cafe. Take a peak inside and you’ll quickly discover the large range of titles they have on offer, across a variety of genres. Order a coffee, breakfast, or sweet treat – this is the place to be for a leisurely read or a casual brunch.

New Edition Bookshop
For over 30 years, New Edition Bookshop in Fremantle has stood strong, offering up fiction, non-fiction, poetry, art books, and more. Housed within the historic Union Stores Building – a heritage-listed site dating back to 1896 – New Edition is a must-visit for any book lover living or travelling to Perth. Spend some time within the relaxed atmosphere while browsing titles and chatting with the knowledgeable staff – the team at New Edition are always looking for their next best read and may be the key to finding yours too.

Boffins Bookshop
Renowned for its extensive range of specialist and technical books – Boffins is a bookshop at the top of many readers’ lists. Established in 1989, their diverse selection is a major drawcard – from fiction and non-fiction to academic texts and niche publications. Find the latest bestseller, a rare technical manual, or a gift for someone special – this staple bookshop is guaranteed to have something that tickles your fancy.






