Chapters Book Shop, Dublin

After the closure of the Borders-branch in the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, this is undisputedly the mother ship of all indepent and chain-less Dublin bookstores when it comes to size. On their premises, Chapters sells an extensive range of books, music and DVDs, both new and second hand, as well as thousands of bargain priced titles. They even have the whole second floor reserved for 2nd hand books, but this floor may get a bit messy, so if you're looking for a specific title I recommend the ground section (which has also loads of bargain books ready to grab).

Besides the usual in-store events like readings and book signings Chapters also plays host to small shows, as seen during last year's HWCH-festival. And they are on Twitter (http://twitter.com/chaptersbooks) and have their own blog (http://chaptersbookstoredublin.blogspot.com/).

I visited Chapters a few weeks before Christmas and was treated quite arrogantly by the person on the info desk, who was, as it turns out, the manager. In trying to show he knew his stuff, he was very high - handed and snobby. Pity, but there are plenty of places to buy books.Disappointing. Will you have the honesty to print this?

Chapters on Parnell street is the best book shop in Dublin for booklovers. The shop accommodates anybodies interests stocking from the latest celebrity chef’s cookbook to books on the paranormal and occult – the shop stocks all genres and if it isn’t in stock the shop will order it in usually from America at a good price. There are tables throughout the shop which have loads of books on special offer. Upstairs is dedicated to second hand books and music, buying and selling, again all genres.

Chapters is Dublin’s ultimate emporium for the book lover. It boasts the largest second hand book selection in the city as well as a massive floor devoted to new books - many at slightly reduced rates. They also sell second hand cds and dvds and even a startling selection of videos.

It’s worth setting aside a few hours to rummage through the second hand section. Perfect for a rainy day.

The only downsides are the surly staff and the astronomical prices in the second hand section - but hey, they have to pay for their shiny new premises somehow, and it is a great place.