A renewed appetite for printed books is helping drive the expansion of an independent Sunshine Coast bookstore, as more readers turn away from screen time and back to hard copy literature.
Annie’s Books on Peregian has moved into a larger store at 2 Kingfisher Drive, just metres from its previous location at Peregian Beach, doubling its floor space in response to growing demand.
Rob and Lea Dodd, who own Annie’s Books on Peregian and Rosetta Books in Maleny, said the move reflected both customer feedback and a broader resurgence in independent book retail.
“We’ve been operating in our new store now for a couple of weeks and we have appreciated the enthusiasm, support and positivity from seasoned locals to new visitors,” they said.
“More space to sit and ponder and chat, a larger non-fiction space and a separate children’s area which has been a hit with parents too.”
The pair purchased the business from long-time owner Annie Grossman, who ran it for 17 years before stepping away in May 2025 to focus on travel and spending time with family.
Mr Dodd said maintaining the store’s community focus was central to the transition.
“Retaining the team was a big part of the discussions and a sincere approach to continuing the great legacy that Annie has built over the years,” he said.
The expansion comes at a time when many independent bookstores across Australia have faced closure.
However, Mr Dodd said the sector was showing signs of renewed growth.
“We’ve certainly seen a reduction over the years, however as members of the Australian Booksellers Association, it is pleasing to see a resurgence of new store openings which are now exceeding store closures by quite a high ratio,” he said.
Ms Dodd said independent bookstores continued to stand out by offering personalised recommendations and a strong community focus.
“As an independent bookshop we can curate a range of books that appeal based on listening to customers’ needs, with the standout being qualified recommendations, passionate people who love books and voracious readers,” she said.
“In addition, we really focus on the need to create a community hub loved by all. These qualities we believe cannot come from large-format retail stores.”
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
She said interest in printed books was growing across multiple age groups, with a shift away from screen-based reading.
“We have teenagers interested in classics and a number of newer genres such as romance and fantasy, which creates new readers who then expand to other genres,” she said.
“There is a move away from screen time which is healthy.”
Mr Dodd also noted the continued importance of audio formats, with plans for further expansion in that space.
“We will soon be able to announce a partnership arrangement for audio through the store,” he said.
Looking ahead, the expanded store will continue to focus on community connection and reader experience.
“We’ll have the same ability to listen, recommend and advise, with more choice and space for browsing,” he said.
