WE Are Books

WE Are Books is a welcoming second-hand bookshop in the front room of the Canterbury WEA’s beautifully restored Christchurch villa on Gloucester Street. With more than 1,000 thoughtfully organised pre-loved books, it is a lovely place to browse, discover and support a good cause. The shelves cover an impressively wide range of interests, from children’s books and New Zealand writing to politics, science, world history, cookery, self-help, gardening, philosophy, arts and crafts. Fiction readers can explore dedicated sections for New Zealand authors, crime, classics, science fiction and fantasy, young adult books and graphic novels. The cosy children’s area invites young readers to sit, read and play while their adults browse. Every purchase directly supports the Canterbury WEA and its charitable work providing accessible adult and community education. Most of the bookshop’s stock is donated, and good-quality book donations are warmly welcomed. Larger collections may be collected by arrangement, while books unsuitable for the shop are redirected to other outlets or occasional markets so they can still be enjoyed by someone else. WE Are Books is run by a friendly, knowledgeable volunteer team, who are always happy to help visitors find something special. Volunteers are also welcome.