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12 bookshops have been longlisted for the An Post Bookshop of the Year category at this year’s An Post Irish Book Awards, the annual literary event that celebrates and promotes Irish writing and authors to the widest range of readers possible.
The An Post Bookshop of the Year category is designed to acknowledge the significant role played by independent bookshops and local branches of bookshop chains in helping their local communities to find and savour the titles of their choice. Previous winners include:
The longlist of twelve bookshops around Ireland for 2025 in alphabetical order are:
Customers were asked to vote for their favourite bookshops and explain the reason for their choice. The bookshops that received the most votes were then longlisted and have been invited by the judges to enter a written submission. For more information on the process, visit https://www.irishbookawards.ie/an-post-bookshop-of-the-year/
The shortlist of six bookshops will now be selected by an independent judging panel, the judges for 2025 area:
The shortlist will be officially announced on the 22nd October. The overall winner of An Post Bookshop of the Year will be presented with their trophy at the An Post Irish Book Awards event on 27th November along with a prize worth €15,000 from An Post Commerce.
Each year, the An Post Irish Book Awards bring together a vast community passionate about books – readers, authors, booksellers, publishers and librarians – to recognise the very best of new and established Irish writing talent and 2025 will be no different. Other categories in the An Post Irish Book Awards include Novel of the Year, Children’s (Junior and Senior), Crime Fiction, Popular Fiction, Non-fiction, Sports, Short Story, Poem, History, Teen and Young Adult and Irish Language.
Larry Mac Hale, Chairperson of the An Post Irish Book Awards, says:
“Bookshops are the cornerstone of many communities across Ireland, and this category was established to honour the central role they play - not only within the book trade, but in celebrating Ireland’s extensive literary heritage. More than just shops, they are cultural havens that spark creativity and foster a love of reading for people of all ages. We are proud to support this award and delighted to see such worthy bookshops on the longlist. Our warmest congratulations and best wishes to them all.”
Maria Dickenson, Chair of Bookselling Ireland, says:
“For generations, Irish bookshops have been an essential part of our culture. They offer welcoming spaces where readers can explore and celebrate stories of every kind. Booksellers play a crucial role in Ireland’s literary landscape, bringing people and books together in ways that truly matter. It’s inspiring to see their dedication recognised, and the 2025 longlist reflects that passion and diversity.”
Commenting on the important role bookshops play in local communities, Garrett Bridgeman, Managing Director of An Post Mails & Parcels says:
“Bookshops are at the heart of every community, connecting people with stories and each other. At An Post, we are proud to support these local champions who inspire a love of reading, nurture creativity, and help Irish authors reach readers nationwide. The dedication and passion shown by bookshops across Ireland is truly remarkable, and we congratulate all those longlisted for this year’s award.”