Going against the trends, Avenue Books is a small book business that just keeps getting bigger and bigger. Originally opened in Albert Park in 1986, the independent bookshop empire expanded to Elsternwick in 2012 and then to Richmond in 2016. The shop focuses heavily on fiction, art books and children's literature, with both local and imported titles on offer. Friendly and knowledgeable, the staff can lend a hand finding and recommending books across all genres — there are even dedicated children's book experts. The shop also offers a stellar selection of free events and author talks — keep track of them here.

Images: Tracey Ah-kee.