Whether you are an avid bookworm or starting your journey to developing a love of reading, there is no better place to start than an independent bookshop.
The Publisher’s Association have put together their top picks of bookshops to visit this Independent Bookshop week, an annual celebration of independent bookshops across the UK and Ireland.
Queer Lit, Northern Quarter
Opening in August last year, Queer Lit is dedicated to helping discover literature that best reflects the ethos and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community.
They now stock 2,000 books in their Northern Quarter store and donate around 100 LGBTQ+ books each month to schools across the UK.
Find out more here.
Paramount Books, Shudehill
Step into the past as visitors to Paramount Books are greeted by the sound of opera and jazz coming through their speakers.
Packed full of vintage magazines, action comics and picture posts, the shop is a haven for alternative readers.
Find out more here.
B is for Butterfly, Sale
For family outings, B is for Butterfly is a specialist children’s independent bookshop tucked away inside Emporium M33.
Its founder, Michelle, firmly believes that books enjoyed in childhood can have a lasting impression and selects titles with this in mind.
Find out more here.
Chorlton Bookshop, Chorlton-cum-Hardy
Chorlton Bookshop is a family-run store that has been a part of the local community since 1983.
Its calm and welcoming environment cemented its place as a beloved part of the neighbourhood – prompting hundreds to show up in protest when it was threatened with closure in 2014.
Find out more here.
Didsbury Village Bookshop, Didsbury
Didsbury Village Bookshop forms part of The Art of Tea – a vibrant café, bar and art space that has been serving Didsbury customers since 2009.
The Bookshop is home to an incredible selection of second-hand titles creating a charming haven for traditional book lovers.
Find out more here.