Remembering 'English Fine Books' in Palma de Mallorca

In the heart of Palma, Mallorca, lies a unique establishment that has captured the hearts of book enthusiasts for over a decade. ‘English Fine Books’, located on C. Morei, first opened its doors in 2008, courtesy of Rodney Browne, an antique book specialist with a remarkable four-decade career in the trade. Browne's journey began in Bournemouth, England, and when he relocated to the sun-soaked shores of Mallorca, his vast collection of books made the journey with him.

A Book Shop Full of Literary Treasures

Last year, Rodney Browne decided to retire, marking the end of an era for the beloved bookstore. His daughter, Sara Jane, took charge and made the decision to put both the shop and its extensive collection of literary treasures up for sale. After an eventful period of transition, Fine Books now has new owners who, intriguingly, choose to remain anonymous.

New Owners Embark on an Adventure

One of the first things the new owners noted about the bookstore was its chaotic and cluttered interior. In their words, "you couldn't even walk" amid the towering stacks of books that filled every nook and cranny. An estimated 100,000 books, each with its unique story, were jammed into this cosy literary sanctuary.

The Memory of ‘English Fine Books’

Fine Books, located on Palma's C. Morei, always stood apart from the typical bookshops you'd encounter in Mallorca. Firstly, the majority of its collection was in English, catering to the island's English-speaking residents and the many travellers who visit. However, what truly set it apart was the absence of an obvious cataloguing system. The books were arranged on shelves, but their placement seemed almost whimsical, inviting patrons to embark on a literary treasure hunt.

When the shop was still open, stepping into it felt like stumbling upon a hidden gem in an English town. It harked back to an era when such bookstores were more common, offering a haven for collectors, the intellectually curious, and those who continue to hold printed books dear in an age dominated by technology.

While Fine Books may have appeared chaotic and disorganised at first glance, it woke a certain charm that endeared it to both locals and tourists. Despite its labyrinthine layout and towering dusty bookshelves, this English bookshop became a local landmark. Its shelves were home to a wealth of secondhand and antique books, enough to rival a small library, alongside a fascinating assortment of random curios and knick-knacks.

Welcoming a New Era for the Book Shop in Palma

In an era of e-books and digital libraries, Fine Books have and will stand as a testament to the enduring love for physical books. Hopefully, with the new owners, it will continue to draw book lovers from near and far, offering a unique and unscripted adventure with every visit.