University Bookshop Canterbury, on University Drive at Ilam, Christchurch, is the city's second oldest bookshop. The website says it has worked alongside the University of Canterbury for nearly 90 years, both at Ilam and in the central city. It is a community bookshop that welcomes browsers and buyers, with a steady stream of students, staff and city readers. The range includes fiction and non-fiction, a strong selection of New Zealand titles, textbooks for University of Canterbury courses, and a children's section from newborns to young adults. There is also stationery, greeting cards, giftware and University of Canterbury Alumni merchandise.
The shop is known for special orders, using specialised search engines to find hard-to-find books, and says it will order any title that is not on the shelves. It hosts author launches, usually on mid-week evenings from 5.30 to 7pm, and is a Patron of WORD Christchurch. Staff can be reached by phone or email, and goods can be sent out. Our pick in Ilam for a book you cannot find elsewhere.