Curated selection of 18th-century leather-bound tomes, first editions, and rare finds for collectors and enthusiasts.
Affordable vintage and used books across genres, including Penguin classics, Welsh literature, and history.
Historical and artistic prints, postcards, and miscellaneous paper goods for gifts or decor.
Secure domestic and international shipping with careful packaging to ensure books arrive in perfect condition.
Knowledgeable staff offering personalized recommendations, historical insights, and stories about the collection.
Now called Aldous Books (recently acquired in 2024). Can be accessed in the courtyard of the Bluecoat building. Access Bluecoat off of School Lane. Google maps location led us to think we were in the wrong place. Found a couple of excellent books on Welsh history. Quite a number of books written in Welsh. Great little shop with knowledgeable staff.
Excellent antiquarian and second hand bookshop. Great variety of books from 18th century leather bound tomes to vintage penguin classics.
Quirky place friends staff with great knowledge of the history of the building
The books that we bought when on a short holiday and you so kindly posted to us arrived today. Brilliant packaging and a brilliant service, many thanks will see you next time we come to Liverpool. Best regards Caroline and Lachlan deVoy 👍
Best store in Liverpool. Filled with wonderful books, prints, postcards, and other miscellaneous wonders that will keep you fascinated for hours. They are the loveliest people and always have great stories and historical facts to share. Highly highly recommend!

Liverpool's treasure trove of rare, antiquarian, and second-hand books since 2024.
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Located in the historic Bluecoat building off School Lane, Kernaghan Books (now Aldous Books) is a beloved Liverpool institution specializing in antiquarian, second-hand, and rare books. From 18th-century leather-bound tomes to vintage Penguin classics, Welsh history volumes, prints, and postcards, our curated collection offers something for every bibliophile. Our knowledgeable, friendly staff provide exceptional service, including secure shipping, and share fascinating stories about the books and the building's rich history. Discover literary wonders in our charming courtyard shop.
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