Books Upstairs, Dublin’s oldest independent bookstore, was damaged early Monday in what Gardaí are investigating as an arson attack. The blaze was lit at around 3 am, affecting the front façade of the shop on D’Olier Street.
Store manager Louise Earls described the incident as “a rude awakening this morning.” She stressed that, fortunately, many parts of the shop — which spans two adjoining buildings — were largely untouched. Damage is confined primarily to one front side of the building façade, particularly the corner and basement areas; the rest of the store remains open and functioning.
Earls said staff opened “one half of the shop straight away, the half that was unaffected, and the other half at about lunchtime, so we’re about 90 per cent open at the moment.” The café inside is expected to reopen later this week.
Gardaí responded swiftly, and parts of the street remain cordoned off as clean-up crews and fire investigators continue their work. No injuries were reported. Authorities are treating the incident as criminal damage by fire. On the question of motive, Earls believes it was likely opportunistic vandalism rather than a targeted attack. She noted that the damage was external and praised the fire brigade and neighbours for their quick response.
Founded in 1978 by Maurice Earls and Enda O’Doherty, Books Upstairs has become a much-loved cultural institution in Dublin, known for its carefully curated selection of books, its literary café, and its long history as a hub for writers and readers alike. Earlier this year, Louise Earls was named Bookseller of the Year, reflecting the shop’s growing influence and reputation within the Irish book trade.
Early reports suggest that rubbish bags awaiting collection outside the store may have been set alight, with flames spreading toward the storefront. The fire brigade quickly extinguished the blaze before it reached the shop’s main interior. Investigators are now analysing CCTV footage to determine whether the fire was accidental or deliberate.
The incident has prompted an outpouring of support from customers and fellow businesses. Messages of solidarity have poured in on social media, with locals praising the staff’s determination to reopen so quickly. Earls expressed gratitude for the “incredible kindness” shown by the community and vowed to have the façade restored as soon as possible.
While much of the damage is external and cosmetic, restoration costs — including repairs to the shopfront, smoke cleaning, and structural assessments — are expected to reach several thousand euro. Insurance teams and city council inspectors are assessing the site this week.
The emotional toll, however, may be greater than the physical one. For many Dubliners, the attack on Books Upstairs feels like an attack on the city’s literary heritage itself. The shop has hosted countless author readings, poetry nights, and student gatherings over the decades, serving as a haven for independent culture in the capital.
As Garda investigations continue, the bookstore remains open for business — a small but defiant gesture of resilience from a landmark that has weathered economic recessions, relocations, and now, fire.
In Earls’s own words: “We’ve survived a lot over the years — and we’ll survive this too.”
@radionova100fm Today, Books Upstairs reopened entirely, after a fire occurred on the bookstore’s façade #books #bookworm #booktok #dublin #dublinshop ♬ original sound -
