Wollongong's new bookstore pairs second-hand novels with wine
Owner Yvonne Hill has opened Well Red in Wollongong, a second-hand bookstore offering book-and-wine pairings and a fireplace reading nook.
Yvonne Hill opened Well Red on Keira Street in Wollongong this week, combining a childhood dream with a business strategy. The store sells second-hand books sourced from her own collection, Facebook Marketplace, op shops and donations, all in good condition.
Hill pairs books with wine, offering tastings and gift packs that match novels to bottles. The store also runs a Blind Date with a Book lucky dip.
She decided this year was the time to take a chance. She had a soft opening on November 4 with just word-of-mouth, and about 20 to 30 people came in, telling her Wollongong needed a bookstore.
She believes books offer something genuine in a world of digital overwhelm: an escape that hasn't been made by artificial intelligence.
- Yvonne Hill
- Owner
- Keira Street, Wollongong
- Location
- 20 to 30 people
- Soft opening crowd
- 4 November
- Soft opening date
Why it mattersSecond-hand bookstores give books a second life and create a gathering place in a town where readers can find community.
AustraliaPeople in Wollongong now have a new spot to browse and buy used books, with the added option of wine pairings and gift ideas.
