posted on 23 Sep 2016

Main Point Books, Edinburgh

Another book shop on West Point but for me the lesser of the clutch we visited. The shop has a slightly odd shape – it feels a bit like a slim cheese wedge in that the space seems to taper towards the back. However, even at its best it isn’t generous in terms of size and as a result it feels quite cluttered and difficult to get to grips with.

For the kinds of books we were particularly interested in – modern or 20th century fiction first editions and collectible children’s book – the shop was a bit of a disappointment. Although there is an easy to find fiction section I thought the stock was a bit dreary and a touch overpriced – something which always prevents me from impulse buying. As for children’s books, they were rather hard to locate and seemed to be integrated into other sections - ‘illustrated books’ .for example.

The main problem for me was the general atmosphere and welcome – which we found to be rather cold and a bit prickly. I know ‘atmosphere’ is a rather subjective and intangible thing but it is important and when it’s not working there really isn’t much that will keep you in the shop.

I can’t imagine that I wouldn’t drop in the next time I’m in Edinburgh but I wouldn’t be looking forward to it in quite the same way as I would for the other shops in West Port we visited.

 

Terry Potter

September 2016