Twice a year Brisbane holds what is touted as the biggest secondhand book sale on earth, the Lifeline Bookfest with over 1 million books covering over a football field of space. Twice a year I drag my little shopping trolley along and join the feeding frenzy. I call myself the bag lady. Today was the last day, everything half price and even fill a bag for $5. (The bargain hunter in me was out!) 10 bags later and dozens of retro design books, boys and girls annuals, craft books and vintage Penguins I was filthy but happy. Four hours of bibliophile bliss. I need a nap. Here are just some of the beauties I found.

You know what this means though. More retro posts! My favourite of the lot is a book of dissertations from 1896. Someone has covered it in this wonderful pink brown and white chevron fabric many years back. Now it’s all beautifully worn and stained.