Better Read Than Dead
For over two decades Better Read Than Dead bookshop has thrived in the heart of Newtown's King Street, which houses a vibrant community and offers one of the most eclectic shopping experiences in Sydney. Our shop is a literary landmark that nourishes the neighbourhood's intellectual dynamics with a specially curated collection of books and regular author and community events.
Better Read Than Dead's impressive contemporary space, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and sky-lit mezzanine level create an inviting respite from the busy street and we welcome browsers, advice-seekers and anyone who values a good old-fashioned book chat. We pride ourselves on the quality and specialised knowledge of our booksellers. Our staff's collective decades of bookselling experience, diverse tastes and deep love of reading means that we are able to provide our customers with individualised service and a unique range of titles.
Lonely Planet has acknowledged our commitment to readers, writers and the local community by naming us their "favourite Sydney Bookshop." Pop by the store next time you're in Newtown and find out why.
Event Queries
If you would like to collaborate with us on an event, please note the following before contacting us.
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The Space
Better Read Than Dead hosts in store author events upstairs in our Art and Design section. This area comfortably holds up to 60 attendees and can be configured for seating, standing or a combination of both. We can occasionally accommodate larger crowds for in store launch parties and more established authors.
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Offsite Venues
Some events require more space or particular quirks. For this reason, Better Read Than Dead has established relationships with a variety of local venues and we are able to organise and host events offsite. We also regularly attend offsite events organised by third parties as booksellers.
Promotion
Better Read Than Dead will promote events though our website, email newsletters, and social media. We also ask authors promote their events with us through their website and social media outlets. We are always willing to join forces with you to make the event the best it can be.
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Contact Us
We thoughtfully consider all event requests. However, please be aware that we favour local authors and are selective about which events we proceed with.
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If you are interested in organising an event with us, please contact us at events@betterread.com.au with the following information.
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The author's name
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The book/books you're looking to promote
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A contact email address
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A contact phone number
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A website with more information on your author/book
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The projected number of attendees
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The date(s) and time you are interest in holding your event
If you schedule an event with Better Read Than Dead, please be mindful of scheduling another event in Sydney's Inner West within two weeks prior to or following the event. Avoiding this helps to solidify event attendance. ​