We have worked alongside the University of Canterbury for nearly 90 years – both at Ilam and in the centre city.
We are a community bookstore located on the luscious grounds of the Ilam Campus and everyone is welcome to browse and shop. There is always a steady stream of students and staff in the shop, but it is also home to many of the city’s readers.
You will rapidly discover our point of difference from other bookstores. UBS goes well beyond a chain-store “top 20” approach. In our 330sqm shop, New Zealand titles are strongly represented in our curated selection of stock. There is a wide range of both fiction and non-fiction, with new titles and an extensive and credible backlist of past classics. We also have an comprehensive children’s section catering for newborns through to young adults. For the students studying at UC we carry the appropriate textbooks for their courses. Our range is vast and the experienced staff are always on hand to make suggestions, guide you around the store, or help you make your selection. UBS stock also includes stationery, greeting cards and a beautiful selection of giftware. We are also the official supplier of University of Canterbury Alumni merchandise.
Customers’ special orders have always been an area of expertise with UBS. We use specialised search engines to locate hard-to-find books. A title not being on the shelves, is a challenge not a barrier, we are always willing to get that special book in for you.
UBS is renowned for hosting many authors at the launching of their books. You are welcome to go onto our mailing list for these events which are normally held on a mid-week evening at 5.30-7pm. Our regular customers love these occasions.
We also participate in the wider Christchurch literary community. We are a Patron of WORD Christchurch, and regularly sponsor school reading events. We work with schools regarding their classroom, library and prize-giving needs and support the RTLB networks in Christchurch, helping children with specific reading needs.
