Archives Fine Books, located in a brick building on Charlotte Street in Brisbane, is a traditional bookstore filled with thousands of old and new books. Run by owners Dawn Albinger and Hamish Alcorn, the store boasts a vast collection that spans various genres including literature, fantasy, religion, law, and philosophy. Established in 1985 by Emmanuel Meschers, the store is known for its promise of “One Million Books” and has become a destination for book lovers from all over the world.
The love story of Dawn and Hamish adds to the charm of Archives Fine Books. Both deeply invested in the arts and creative pursuits from a young age, they first met while working at La Boite Theatre in the 1980s. Despite pursuing different paths in their lives, they eventually reconnected and became the custodians of the bookstore. Their journey has been filled with challenges, including taking over the business just before the global financial crisis and adapting to the changing landscape of the publishing industry with the rise of ebooks and Kindles.
Despite facing adversity, Dawn and Hamish have never regretted their decision to run Archives Fine Books. Their passion for books and love for what they do have kept them going even in tough times. The bookstore has evolved to include rare and vintage books, with Dawn specializing in the antiquarian side of the business and Hamish focusing on cataloguing the collection and growing its online presence. Their dedication to the store and their unique blend of skills have sustained the business through ups and downs.
The John Mills Himself building, formerly a printing press, has been home to Archives Fine Books for nearly four decades. The distinctive smell of books, known as bibliosmia, fills the air within the store. The owners have worked hard to expand the rare book section, which includes antiques and genuine collectibles with high price tags. One of the most valuable books they’ve had was an edition of William Blake’s The Book of Job, priced at $150,000. Dawn’s passion for antiquarian books led her to establish The Archives Fine Book Collecting Prize, the only one of its kind in Australia.
As they continue to navigate the ever-changing book industry, Dawn and Hamish see their journey as a fulfilling one. Every experience and interest they’ve had in life has contributed to their roles as bookstore owners. Their shared love for Archives Fine Books and the joy they find in running the store together fuel their dedication and keep them moving forward. The story of Archives Fine Books and its owners, Dawn and Hamish, is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing the twists and turns of fate that lead to a fulfilling life.
