Arnold Busck (book store), Copenhagen

Arnold Busck, a renowned name in the Danish book retail industry, was founded in 1896 in Copenhagen by Arnold Busck and J.L. Wisbech, originally under the name Busck & Wisbech. The bookstore moved to Gothersgade in 1901 and became solely known as Arnold Busck after Wisbech departed in 1902. Over the years, it expanded by acquiring Nyt Nordisk Forlag in 1922 and Det Schønbergske Forlag in 1965. The leadership of the company passed through generations of the Busck family, with Helge Arnold Busck taking over in 1941, followed by his son Ole Arnold Busck in 1969.

Located on Købmagergade, near the bustling Strøget—one of Copenhagen’s busiest shopping areas—and close to the University of Copenhagen, Arnold Busck became a cultural staple in the city. Initially catering to collegiate literature students, the store later broadened its audience to the general public, emphasizing a rich selection of art and architecture books, as well as a substantial collection of fiction.

The store remains a beloved fixture in Copenhagen, housed in a three-story building that has been part of the city's fabric since the early 1900s. It offers a vast array of books on various subjects including arts, architecture, photography, food, and wine, alongside children’s books, audiobooks, tourist guides, and maps. The store is also known for its extensive collection of books in both Danish and English. Adding to its charm is the famous Baresso coffee bar on the second floor, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The yearly sale event at Arnold Busck is especially popular, drawing crowds eager for book bargains in a vibrant city atmosphere.