Final chapter for local Paddington bookstore

BY CHARLOTTE GRIEVE

After more than three decades of loyal service, one of Oxford Street’s literary institutions has closed its doors.

Ranked among Sydney’s top ten bookstores, Ariel Booksellers was opened in 1983 by the now-owner, Julia Banks’ parents who saw an opportunity ahead of their time.

The modern oasis will be remembered amongst Paddingtonians for its unique selection of art, architecture and design books as well as its cutting edge furniture and eclectic selection of gifts.

The independent bookstore was located opposite the UNSW College of Fine Arts, acting as a creative hub for the local community across generations.

“Thank you for being there for two generations of my family,” Jacinta Coelho posted on the book store’s Facebook group.

Open until midnight most nights of the week, the book store was host to a plethora of prominent book launches such as that of Aboriginal artist, Yannima Pikarli Tommy Watson.

Ariel was a bookworm haven that added to the patchwork of Oxford Street’s rich tapestry. Devastated customers reflect on the book store’s Facebook page of the “good times” had in the store.

“When I moved to Sydney from a much smaller centre 28 years ago, Ariel being open late into the night seemed the height of urbane sophistication. It was evidence of culture and a thriving community which didn’t live within the bounds of a 9-5 working week,” posted Kevin Peckham, a long-time Ariel customer.

“The last fantastic bastion of Paddington to go,” said Cass Daniels on the page.

After a month long sale with prices reduced by up to 70 per cent, the book store has finally joined the growing number of businesses on Oxford Street to close its doors.

The arrival of Westfield at Bondi Junction in 2004 combined with the growth of online shopping has contributed to the declining ability of stores to be able to afford high rental prices of Oxford Street stores.

While Paddington residents might feel dismayed by the closure of their much-loved store, Ariel Booksellers will be starting a new chapter by opening a store in Glebe as early as October.