Independent Bookshop Week runs from June 14 to June 21, an initiative by the Booksellers Association to acknowledge the vital role of independent bookshops. This celebration aims to support the industry and honor literature.
In Oxfordshire, several bookshops, including those in Wantage and Abingdon, have invited renowned literary figures to join in the festivities. Daunt Books Summertown, located in Oxford, hosted Philip Pullman in conversation with Nell Frizzell. This event followed Pullman’s announcement of completing the final book in his series, which is set to be published in October.
Andy Murton of Daunt Books Summertown reflected on the excitement of their first-ever festival day, held in the newly opened garden of the shop. The festival also featured children’s authors Neill Cameron and Rachel Rivers Khoo, alongside writers Barbara Trapido, Eve Chase, Mick Herron, and Olivia Kiernan.
The highlight of the day was Mr. Murton’s solo performance of a Sherlock Holmes story, providing attendees with a genuine storytelling experience.
At Wantage Bookshop, owner Emma Milne-White hosted an event with bestselling authors Mark Billingham, C.L. Taylor, and Abir Mukherjee, while offering a 20% discount on hardback sales until Saturday. Milne-White mentioned, “We love celebrating Independent Bookshop Week – it’s a great way to emphasize how bookshops are welcoming places, offering carefully curated books, personal recommendations, and wonderful events.”
In Abingdon, Mostly Books marked the week with an array of activities, including cake, fizz, and author events featuring Joanne Miller, Elle McNicoll, and Ben Lerwill. Additionally, a “kids’ takeover” behind the till was planned for Saturday.
Independent Bookshop Week serves as a crucial support for bookshops, especially as the industry faces a decline. Statistics from the Booksellers Association indicate a net loss of five independent shops in the UK this year. In the Southeast region alone, only one bookshop has opened against five closures.
The loss of specialist genre bookshops, such as those serving marginalized groups or focused on hobbies and faith, is particularly troubling. These establishments have been noted for their historic charitable and community outreach contributions.
Meryl Halls, managing director of the Booksellers Association, remarked on the importance of this year’s celebration, as bookshops confront challenges from discount online retailers and heightened consumer demands.
Explore more about local bookshops in our business directory. If you’re interested in the local literary scene or wish to support local businesses, consider creating a free business profile or exploring events happening in the Wantage area by visiting our directory. You can also submit your listing or add an event to further engage with the community.
