I paid Cow Books’ Aoyama branch a much delayed visit yesterday despite the downpour.
The shop front was terribly small; I say terrible because it deserves the largest space in the world. That said, Aoyama’s Cow worked the small allotment with style and a quiet post-punk attitude.
Operating more like an exhibition space (where the books are art and the readers are the discerning gallery visitors), this Cow Books has a fine collection of vintage Japanese books. Old copies of Brutus line the lower shelves and in-house products are showcased on the main shelves.
I was there mainly to say hello to the wonderful people who’re carrying BooksActually’s notebook lines. The two staff on duty, Aya-san and Kaori-san, were attentive but never over-enthusiastic in their service, which I loved. I want to ask for their recommendations next time!
I’ll be returning soon, to catch a glimpse of Karena Lam’s “To: Monsieur Le Corbusier” book fair. I’ve attempted in reserving a copy of her very limited handmade book, and I really hope I can get my hands on it!
