Tucked away in Stansbury on the Yorke Peninsula and only open on select days, Peninsula Records and Books offers an eclectic mix of Australian authors and global vinyl.
“We just wanted to provide a place where people could come and buy a brand-new or second-hand book or a record, because there wasn’t really anything like that in the area,” owner Kate explains.
The idea grew from the online store, which was already gaining traction for Aussie authors before the couple decided to open a physical location.
“We had it online for a while, and it was doing quite well. Then we thought, why don’t we open it up down in Stansbury since we had the space?” says Kate.
Less a shop and more a passion project where visitors can come in and rummage through the collection that runs from a small garage space – like a friend’s collection, but one that focuses exclusively on Australian authors.
“When I first started, that wasn’t the intention,” Kate admits.
“But being a small space, we had to narrow down our selection. There are so many great bookshops doing fantastic things in the fantasy space or romance space, but I grew up with Australian authors… I wanted to create a space to highlight them.”
Images: Kate Williams
From crime to fantasy, general fiction to cookbooks, the store boasts a wide range of Australian literature. You’ll find authors like Tricia Stringer, Joanne Spears, Fiona McIntosh, and Amy Matthews, a Flinders University professor who recently secured a major book deal.
After something specific but can’t find it anywhere or need a recommendation for a great read? Kate has you covered.
“We’re restocking all the time, but also we’re more than happy to order in for people as well,” she says.
On the music side, the store takes a more international approach while still promoting local artists.
“With second-hand collections, you can’t always be as selective. But we do stock great South Australian bands on vinyl, alongside old classics and new releases.”
For those unable to visit in person, the online store offers a curated selection of books and records.
“We probably have a lot more in the bookshop than we have online… we want to give people a reason to visit in person,” says Kate.
Currently, opening times are few and far between, adding to the illusiveness.
“At this stage, we open every Saturday fortnight.”
“We plan to open more over Easter though, so people can stay up to date on our social media for when that’ll be.”
Unique books, vinyl records and an excuse to visit the Yorke Peninsula this weekend. See you there.
WHAT: Peninsula Records and Books
WHERE: 11 Weaver St, Stansbury
WHEN: Saturday 22 March -10am to 4pm, Sunday 23 March – 10am to 3pm
www.peninsularecordsandbooks.com
@peninsularecordsandbooks
More News
