120-year-old Oundle Bookshop re-opens after magical transformation
A 120–year-old bookshop has re-opened its doors with a new look.
Oundle Bookshop welcomed visitors over the weekend following a dramatic transformation.
The oldest independent bookstore in Northamptonshire now features an ‘enchanted’ children’s space, complete with a tree for children to sit beneath and read, fairy lights and a night-sky ceiling.
The transformation, which was carried out over the summer, also includes a free flexible workspace for the local community, alongside a young adult space, a showcase for local authors and new fiction, non-fiction and a classics selections.
Sam Draper, owner of Oundle bookshop, said: “It has been a labour of love for everyone involved over the summer, and it is wonderful finally to throw open the doors and welcome people in.
“Owning a bookshop is the stuff of dreams for someone like me. I want Oundle Bookshop to have something for everyone, but there is something particularly special about introducing children to books.
“Those of us who love reading can often remember our first magical bookish memories, and I would love this shop to become part of those memories for generations of children to come.”
To add a little magic to the shelves, five Golden Tickets are set to be hidden between the pages of books across the shop.
Customers who find one of the tickets can then receive a bookish surprise by asking “for the Bookman” at the counter before being invited to hide a new Golden Ticket for another reader to discover.
The reopening is part of a new-era for the much-loved literary institution, with a range of author talks, readings, workshops and other events planned over the coming months.
Mr Draper, a former English teacher. added: “Oundle is a wonderful place, with a proud history and an incredibly welcoming community, and I can think of nowhere better to be living out a dream come true.
“Whether you want to come and see the tree, find your next great read, use the community workspace or simply have a chat about books, everyone is welcome.”
Oundle Bookshop is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 5.30pm, with extended opening, including Sundays, in the run-up to Christmas.