1. Small shops: Victorian bookstores were generally small shops, often with a single room or two.
2. Wooden bookcases: The bookcases were generally made of wood, often in a dark finish such as mahogany, and they were ornately carved with intricate designs.
3. Gas lamps: Most bookstores were lit by gas lamps, which gave a warm and inviting glow to the space.
4. High shelves: The bookshelves were usually quite tall, with the highest books out of reach for many customers. Ladders were often provided so that staff could access the books.
5. Dust: Many bookstores were quite dusty, as the books were not always kept in pristine condition.
6. Catalogues: Victorian bookstores often had large catalogues or lists of all the books that were available for sale, which customers could browse through.
7. Specialised sections: Bookstores often had specific sections for different types of books, such as travel, history or fiction.
8. Workshops and binders: Many bookstores had workshops and binders on site, allowing customers to have books repaired or bound to their liking.
9. Accommodation for reading: Some bookstores provided seating and tables for customers to sit and read, which was a popular pastime in Victorian England.
10. Personalized recommendations: The store owner or staff would often recommend books to customers based on their interests, and many stores had a loyal clientele who would return regularly for new recommendations.
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