I’m writing to you as valued supporters of Antipodes Bookshop and Gallery, and as cherished members of our wider literary community.

When Antipodes changed hands in 2013, bookshops were widely assumed to be on the brink of extinction. The idea of taking on a real bookshop—filled with paper books and personal conversations—seemed, to many, like a leap into the unknown. What those

predictions never accounted for was the profound place this independent bookshop holds in the heart of its community.

Antipodes has always been more than a retail space. It is a safe, welcoming place for people of all ages; a hub of cultural life; a space for learning, curiosity and connection. For over twenty-five years, it has been shaped by the people who walk through its doors every day—readers who feel a sense of shared ownership and pride.

For me personally, the privilege of stewarding this bookshop has been a lifelong dream. Every day, I’m reminded of the importance of preserving spaces where books, ideas and conversation truly matter. I’m supported by a dedicated, passionate team—people who care deeply about readers, about community and about keeping independent bookselling alive.

In recent years, we have poured our energy into new events, book clubs, storytimes, workshops and programs that bring people together. These activities help ensure that Antipodes continues to grow and remains a vital part of Sorrento’s cultural life.

However, Sorrento’s landscape is changing quickly. Each year, more small independent businesses disappear, replaced by larger national chains that can weather rising costs and shifting retail trends. While these newcomers bring convenience, their presence often comes at the expense of the character, diversity and personal connection that independents cultivate.

For locally owned shops, the pressure is immense: higher rents, increased competition and the loss of the intimate, community-led atmosphere that once defined the town. Without support, these unique spaces—places that give Sorrento its heart—risk fading from the landscape altogether.

To maintain our iconic place in Sorrento, to safeguard the future of Antipodes and to keep our welcoming door open we are asking for your support.

Your contribution is a meaningful way to help sustain our cultural programs, local employment, community events and the ongoing presence of this much-loved space. Every donation—large or small—helps protect a space where culture, creativity and community are nurtured every day.

A final word

Dear reader, we value you, and we value the community we’ve built together. Antipodes has always been more than a bookshop, and with your support, we hope to remain here for years to come.

With heartfelt thanks,

Jane and the Antipodes team