Bookshop of the Month: The Kew Bookshop

For our July bookshop of the month we head south of the river to Kew. The Kew Bookshop is situated just outside Kew Gardens Station, and is a great place to browse for literary inspiration on your way to the Botanic Gardens. The Kew Bookshop packs a wealth of titles for both children and adults into their enticing premises, and the shop is  a local hub for author events, as well as offering book clubs the opportunity to use the shop – otherwise known as ‘literary lock-ins’!

A much-loved part of Kew Village, the bookshop was recently saved from redevelopment after a petition by local residents gained some 2000 signatures and the intervention of local MP Zac Goldsmith. The shop ethos is creative and independent, focusing on personal recommendations and providing a space for book lovers to meet, share opinions and enjoy browsing first hand. Our YaleBooks representative dropped in on Mark Brighton, who has run the Kew Bookshop for 10 years, for a quick chat about the store and Mark’s own motivation for a career in books.

Interview with Mark Brighton at The Kew Bookshop

Yale: What has inspired you to make a career in books?
Mark: A study of books and book history and passion for books of all kinds.
Yale: What is special about this bookshop?
Mark: A curated environment perfect for browsing and staff who are knowledgeable and passionate.
Yale: Do you have any early memories of reading?
Mark: Yes, using my local library for anything I could get hold of.
Yale: Aside from this bookshop, what is your favourite bookshop – anywhere in the world?
Mark: Tate Bookshop at the Gallery.
Yale: Dream Customer: if you could choose anyone to walk through the door now, who would it be – celebrity/royal/big spender?
Mark: Someone who is obsessive about books, widely read and wants to use an independent because they value the unique experience.

 

The Kew Bookshop can be found at 1-2 Station Approach, TW9 3QB, and is open 10.00 am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, Sundays 11.00 am to 5.00pm.

Find them on Twitter: @kewbookshop
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