BookBag
New Bookshops
You could be forgiven for thinking that, unless you manufacture lateral flow tests, opening a new venture during a pandemic isn’t a great idea. However, more than 60 new bookshops were started over the last two years, and many seem to be thriving. Ordering books online was a saviour for many people during the various lockdowns and, now that we’re out and about again, the demand for bookshops is at an all-time high – not only because book-buying is back on the up, but also because these little spaces are hubs of understanding, empathy, and human connection, which we all need an extra dose of right now.
Where is it? Exeter
Who’s the owner? Charlie & Malcolm Richards
When did it open? Winter 2020
Bookbag bookshop was opened at the end of 2020 by Charlie and her husband, Malcolm, Like so many other business owners, running a bookshop was something they always talked about, although never too seriously. This all changed when the first lockdown ended, and they found that the pandemic had propelled them to make a change and take a leap of faith. After seeing a unit in the perfect space in an arcade in Exeter surrounded by independent shops, they signed the lease and managed to open in time for Christmas.
Before running a bookshop, Charlie had volunteered at community bookshops as well as working for art and music venues in London – both of which helped her to understand the elements required to build a welcoming, accessible, and fully-functional space. As an educator and academic, Malcolm has curated a varied and wide-ranging selection of academic books and, as a mixed race couple, they were keen to highlight global writing, particularly work written by people to colour. As a space where everybody is welcome and all voices are amplified, Bookbag is a must-visit for everybody in Exeter.
