解憂舊書店

Hidden within the bustling Tai Po Market, a unique bookstore called 解憂舊書店 (The Book Cure) awaits discovery. What if books could mend not just minds, but also hearts? 解憂舊書店, established in June 2016, believes in this very notion. This independent bookstore is the brainchild of Yam Lap-ching, a visionary who dreamed of a space where literature could offer solace and healing. 解憂舊書店 isn’t just any bookstore. It’s Hong Kong’s first and currently only “street market bookstore”. The name itself, 解憂舊書店, holds a double meaning, drawing inspiration from both East and West. The Chinese name comes from Higashino Keigo’s novel “Nazotoki Kissa”, while the English name, The Book Cure, references a work by a British bibliotherapist. This duality reflects the bookstore’s mission: to blend the therapeutic power of reading with the accessibility of a community space. Inside 解憂舊書店, you’ll find more than just secondhand books. A resident guinea pig named “Gulielmus” greets visitors, adding a touch of whimsy to the atmosphere. A guestbook invites patrons to share their thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of connection. The bookstore also features an unusual design element. Wooden stools, crafted by the owner’s son, are scattered throughout the space. These stools, born from recycled materials, symbolize the bookstore’s commitment to sustainability. Yam even repurposed leftover construction materials for the flooring, a testament to her resourcefulness. But 解憂舊書店’s uniqueness extends beyond its physical space. Outside the shop, a free bookstand beckons passersby to take a book and leave one in return. This act of literary exchange embodies the bookstore’s belief in the power of shared stories. The bookstore’s creation story is as inspiring as its mission. Yam, driven by her love for literature and her desire to share its healing power, visited numerous bookstores across Hong Kong. She learned from experienced booksellers, gathering insights into the nuances of the trade. She saw a need for a bookstore that offered not just books, but also a sense of community and emotional support. 解憂舊書店 is a testament to her dedication and vision. The community embraced 解憂舊書店 even before its doors opened. Local residents and market vendors offered support, helping Yam with electricity and renovations. This sense of community continues to thrive, making 解憂舊書店 more than just a bookstore, but a gathering place for book lovers and those seeking solace in the written word. So, next time you’re in Tai Po, seek out this hidden gem. Discover the magic of 解憂舊書店, where books are more than just words on a page, they are a cure for the soul.