ST HELENS' new independent bookshop will open its doors to the public today, Friday, November 26.
While the shop interior is yet to be fully completed, trustees have agreed the premises in Bridge Street should still open in time ahead of Christmas.
The bookshop has been set up due to a community fundraising effort, with a crowdfunding appeal last year seeing the store secure a backing of £45,000.
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When Westfield street store Wardleworth’s closed the idea was sparked for a community book shop to open this idea was formed in 2019. It will be run and owned by the community, and it is hoped will be a huge benefit for the town.
There are more than 300 members consisting of people from the community of St Helens and people who used to live in the town who have got behind the community project.
The official launch will be in 2022.
Laura Goodchild is the Book Stop's manager
Church Square Shopping Centre manager, Steve Brogan, said: “We are thrilled that the independent book shop will be coming to the centre, it is great that the community will be running it and we look forward to opening the doors on November 26 for a soft opening. Keep an eye out for the official launch in 2022.”
The Book Stop launches today
Cllr Kate Groucutt, St Helens Borough Council's cabinet member for education, skills and business, said: “As we seek to instil a love of reading in the next generation through our schools and excellent library service, a well-stocked book shop in St Helens town centre is a must. Books can inspire us, open our minds to new ideas and transport us to wonderful places.
"The fact that The Bookstop is owned by the community makes it even more exciting, and the support shown by our local community since shares went on sale has been fantastic. As a council we will offer all the support we can to ensure it is a success, and I encourage everyone to pay a visit and stock up on Christmas presents.
"Church Square Shopping Centre has exciting plans for the next few months and St Helens Council are looking forward to welcoming the new independent book shop."
For more about becoming a shareholder please email info@sthelensbookstop.co.uk.
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