Discover Bookshop Day 2024: Events, Authors, and Activities Across the UK

Bookshop Day is fast approaching on Saturday, 12 October 2024, and this year's event promises a jam-packed line-up of bookish delights. Across the UK, independent bookshops, literary festivals, and major chains like Waterstones and Foyles are set to host a wide range of exciting activities for readers of all ages.

From author signings to children's story time, poetry readings, and unique cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone on this much-anticipated day.

Celebrating the power of bookshops

Bookshop Day serves as an annual reminder of the essential role bookshops play in our communities, highlighting their impact beyond just retail. This year's theme, “Bookshops Making a Difference,” puts the spotlight on the meaningful contributions of local bookstores in fostering community spirit, creativity, and a shared love of literature.

Book lovers can look forward to author appearances from literary stars such as Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Cressida Cowell, Oliver Jeffers, Susie Dent, Theresa May, Lemn Sissay, and many more. Events will take place nationwide, from bustling city centres to quaint high streets, ensuring that everyone has a chance to celebrate their local bookshop in style.

Key bookshop events across the UK

From the North of England to Scotland and Northern Ireland, hundreds of events are planned, allowing bookshops to shine. Here's a glimpse of what's happening:

North of England

The Stripey Badger Bookshop in Skipton will welcome authors Jennifer Burkinshaw, Paul Rand, and Ruth Estevez for signings. Meanwhile, Waterstones Manchester will support the Manchester Literature Festival with appearances from writers like Joseph Coelho, Inua Ellams, and Lemn Sissay.

Over in Liverpool, acclaimed children's author and illustrator Oliver Jeffers will sign copies of his latest book, Where to Hide a Star, at Waterstones. The Blue House Bookshop in York will be transformed as children take over for the day, running the shop and hosting authors, creating a unique and interactive celebration for young book enthusiasts.

South of England

London’s Foyles Charing Cross will celebrate Korean Culture Month with a special evening featuring Joo Dong-Geun, offering insight into Korean literature and culture. Meanwhile, in Bristol, TikTok sensation and bestselling author Kathleen Glasgow will meet fans for a signing event.

At Waterstones Maidstone, poetry fans can enjoy an evening with Christopher Horton, Maggie Harris, and Dorothy Lehane, among others, as part of Maidstone LitFest. Bookshops in smaller towns are also taking part: in Chorleywood, political commentator Iain Dale will speak about his new book, providing a thought-provoking event for attendees.

Midlands

In Wolverhampton, Sarah the Makaton Tutor will host a lively story time for children, reading We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt and engaging young minds with interactive sessions.

Scotland and Northern Ireland

Scotland’s vibrant literary community is getting involved with Waterstones Glasgow hosting an evening with Sarah A. Parker, author of When the Moon Hatched. The Book Well in Belfast will launch Richard Porter’s The Adventure Driven Life, giving Northern Irish book lovers an exciting event to look forward to.

Festivals and special activities

Bookshop Day coincides with a number of major literary festivals, including the Cheltenham Literary Festival, Ilkley Literature Festival, and Durham Book Festival. These festivals will host author talks, panel discussions, and signings, drawing crowds from all corners of the country.

In addition, there are some quirky and unique activities planned, such as a Pokémon Swap Shop at Waterstones Dundee, a Potato Printing Workshop in Folkestone, and spooky storytelling events perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit.

New bookshops and anniversaries

As part of the celebrations, several new bookshops are opening their doors just in time for Bookshop Day. The Rabbit Hole in Brigg will unveil its new sister store, The Rabbit Hutch, in Grimsby, while Drop City Books in Stoke-on-Trent will mark its first birthday with special promotions and events.

These openings reflect the continued growth of the UK’s independent bookshop scene, even in the face of challenges from online retailers. The enduring appeal of the in-person bookshop experience – the chance to browse, chat with knowledgeable staff, and discover hidden literary gems – is at the heart of Bookshop Day.

Double stamps at Waterstones and Foyles

To sweeten the deal for bookshop visitors, Waterstones and Foyles will offer double loyalty stamps on all purchases made in-store on Bookshop Day. This is a perfect opportunity for book lovers to stock up on their reading lists while earning rewards for future purchases.

Libro.fm golden tickets

For audiobook fans, Libro.fm is running a special promotion in the lead-up to Bookshop Day, hiding Golden Tickets in bookshops across the country. Lucky finders will win 12 free audiobook credits, allowing them to enjoy a year’s worth of listening pleasure.

Glasgow ppotlight

Glasgow will be a focal point for this year’s celebrations, with local artists Jacqueline Briggs and Jack Stamp commissioned to create murals in St Enoch Square and Blythewood Street. These murals will capture the city’s rich artistic and literary heritage, adding a visual feast to the day’s festivities.

Bookshop.org golden bookmark competition

This October, Bookshop.org is running its Golden Bookmark competition, offering a chance for one lucky winner to receive £250 in Bookshop.org gift cards every year for life. The competition will run throughout October, with participants gaining bonus entries through referrals.

Limited-Edition books Are my bag tote

Renowned artist Angela Harding has designed this year’s Books Are My Bag Limited-Edition Tote Bag, which will be available exclusively at participating bookshops from Bookshop Day onwards. Inspired by the scenic beauty of Shetland and its otters, the bag is expected to be a popular collectible, much like previous editions by Charlie Mackesy, Sir Peter Blake, and Orla Kiely.

Choose bookshops video and vampaign

To further spread the message, the Booksellers Association will release a Choose Bookshops video featuring authors, illustrators, and poets sharing their love for local bookshops. This will be available on Books Are My Bag’s social media channels on 9 October.

Supporting Christian bookshops

This year’s campaign also recognises the contribution of Christian bookshops, with several planned events. In Motherwell, The GLO Bookshop will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special service and book launch, while Oasis Christian Bookshop in Wallington will host a family-friendly book signing event.

Join the Celebration

Emma Bradshaw, Head of Campaigns at the Booksellers Association, emphasised the importance of supporting local bookshops:

“Bookshop Day 2024 highlights the vital role that bookshops play in our communities. Whether you’re attending a festival, meeting your favourite author, or simply browsing for your next read, we encourage everyone to visit their local bookshop and experience the joy of discovering something new.”

To find out more about the events happening near you, visit the Books Are My Bag Facebook page or search for your local bookshop on National Book Tokens Discover.

Stay updated by following #BookshopDay and @BooksAreMyBag across social media.