Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers is like a little oasis of civilization in a world of fast food and tabloid television. Shelves and shelves of fine old books, comfortable chairs to sit in and historical premises make it one of Melbourne's most enjoyable bookshops. Located in the basement of a 19th century church at the so-called Paris End of Collins Street, its premises are ideally suited to the range of antique books, on a wide variety of subjects, on sale.

Head to the basement of Melbourne's elegant Block Arcade, and submerge yourself in the best range of local and imported folk, jazz, blues, rhythm and blues, country, rock and pop. Expect to find all categories of roots music, including sounds from Tibet to the Pacific Islands. Chill out at one of the five listening stations by the couches and stack of music magazines, to perhaps cross an ocean or two. Run by a couple of friendly, laid back music lovers, Basement Discs is one of the warmest and most comfortable environments left for both browsing and listening.

The Little Bookroom is a specialist children's bookshop that stocks everything from childhood classics to the latest releases. From babies to young adults, fiction and non-fiction, you can start your child off on the fabulous journey of book reading. There is a section full of picture books for first-time book owners. Progress to first readers and then novels. You will find familiar favorites like Where the Wild Things Are, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Maisie and Noddy, along with related merchandise such as soft toys. A great place to browse for gifts.

A realistically croaking frog alarm greets visitors to this store specializing in educational and environmentally sound products determined to prove that learning to be green can be a whole lot of fun. The magnetic toys will stir the curiosity of the most reluctant science student, while inflatable Australian animals and globes can be sent cheaply throughout the world. There is also a great range of books, maps and puzzles designed for both adults and kids. Discounts for members of the Australian Geographic Society.

Catering especially to fans of vinyl records, this thriving chain of stores seems to indicate a revival in the popularity of the LP. Dixon's claims to have the southern hemisphere's largest range of second-hand CDs, tapes and records. The Blackburn shop is stocked with over 40,000 albums. Second-hand DVDs and video laser disks are also available, as is a limited selection of music videos. Whatever your taste in music, you are bound to find something here.