Local bookshop Hungerford Bookshop is a regional finalist at the prestigious British Book Awards.
Hungerford Bookshop is doing great and is a finalist for a big award, like the “Baftas” for bookstores. They’re a regional finalist in the South-East.
Emma Milne-White, a co-owner, said the award is a “pat-on-the-back.” They spread the joy of reading through talks and good book choices.
The shop is a community hub, where people chat about books and host author events quite often. The team takes pride in bookselling.
Gardners sponsors the award, which celebrates community involvement. Bookshops bring books to local areas, and there were many entries this year.
Finalists show bookshops thrive and use fresh ideas to boost sales. Tom Tivnan, from The Bookseller, said the high street faced troubles last year, but thinks bookshops are “beacons of hope.” He sees great quality in entries, including newcomers and old stores.
Ruth Gardner, from Gardners, thinks each shop has its own story and helps make reading accessible. The award recognizes their value because bookshops unite communities and champion the pleasure of reading.
Regional winners will be named March 11. The overall winner gets £5,000, and the British Book Awards ceremony is May 12 at Grosvenor House London.