The weather is getting cooler, the days are shorter and it’s the perfect conditions for curling up with a coffee or a glass of wine and a good book.
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Technology has helped us in many ways but when it comes to a good old-fashioned hard cover book, there’s been chat that technology is negating the need for a physical copy.
A Wagga mother and daughter duo believed the city was lacking a certain cultural element and has decided they are going to inject it in the form of a second-hand book shop, art gallery and cafe.
They have owned small businesses previously and said Wagga was a great place to live and work, but it needed more culture.
In a city that has placed its focus on public art, could this be the solution?
Should we be providing the city and its residents with somewhere they can immerse themselves in culture and learn more about it rather than simply be able to glimpse it while passing through a roundabout?
Rabbit Books, which will officially open in Johnston Street soon, is full of second-hand and rare books.
It also serves up locally-made treats, and works of art made by Riverina artists adorn the walls.
Live music is being revitalised in the city, with musicians providing events to foster original artists.
We have just as much literary and artistic talent as musical and this is the equivalent of dedicating pub space for live music to those artists.
Literature and art should play as big of a role in the community and not just by providing somewhere that residents can view it.
The way we learn and appreciate is to get involved, to experiment and create.
The artistic talent in this city is immeasurable and it’s inspiring to read a rare novel or take an art class while surrounded by works of art created in Wagga and eating treats by Wagga chefs.
We’ve read a lot lately about Wagga businesses closing down because of a lack of support.
Rabbit Books is a business, yes, but it could also be so much more – it could become a cultural hub, especially for younger people looking for a creative outlet or to find their own voice.
Literature, art, food, it’s all on offer and most of it is produced locally, making this a venture to keep an eye on.