Tucked away in Durban North is a small book shop that caters for the community in all things related to books
story and pictures lee currie
Independent book shops have always had to compete with TV and radio as well as chain stores selling cheaper books. And when e-readers and online retailers entered the literary scene many shops were forced to close.
The one big advantage book shops will always have over the cyber/electronic options is human interaction – aka personal service. Janine O’Connor, a “voracious reader” since early childhood, had previously worked in sales and marketing for big name publishers in Jozi, and opening Books & Books in 2006 in Kensington Square, Durban North was the realisation of her dream.
“The biggest effect of e-readers has been on adult titles – in particular fiction – so we focus on new releases and stock fewer backlists than in the past,” explains Janine. “The key is to offer something more than simply downloading a book, so we have more book launches and functions where customers can meet authors. We’ve hosted some amazing local and international authors such as Jeffrey Archer, Prue Leith, John Connolly, Jodi Picoult, Lawrence Anthony, John van de Ruit, to name just a few. We also have regular book promotions and special offers.”
The shop is pretty small, but it buzzes with activity. On any given day you may see authors signing books, a coffee morning, a writing workshop or a school book club in progress. “We regard ourselves as a community bookshop so make every effort to get involved with the wider community in Durban North and uMhlanga,” says Janine. “Shop manager Kash Dass handles the shop’s marketing and liaises with schools. She has a prodigious memory and is able to remember our regular customers’ likes and dislikes – which of course means she’s always in demand!” *
Suite 22 Kensington Square 031 563 6288
copybreaker
“The key is to offer something more than simply downloading a book, so we have more book launches and functions where customers can meet authors”
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ALL ABOUT BOOKS
The team at Books & Books. From left: Tyler Hooykaas, Janine O’Connor, visiting children’s author Niki Daly, Kash Dass and Keegan Webster.