Since 1978 Newham Bookshop has been serving communities in East London, providing a fabulous selection of educational and children’s books, to those on history, politics, and social studies. We asked the Shop Manager, Vivian, exactly what makes the store so unique and why it is still so successful after 37 years in business.
Vivian Archer, Shop Manager, and John Newman, Children’s Books Manager, outside the Newham Bookshop in East London
Yale: From your website we can see that you have a great selection of educational titles and work closely with some schools in the community. Why do you feel this is important?
Vivian: We have always nurtured our relationships with the whole community. All who work in the shop have a love of reading which we want to share. That’s why going into schools with authors and taking book displays hopefully instils this into young readers.
Y: Are there any recent academic or educational titles that stand out to you?
V: We sell a lot of non-fiction – politics, history and economics are amongst our best sellers. Any books by Owen Jones, all Yale London titles including East London Pevsner. I really like From Bow to Biennale: Artists of the East London Group.
Y: Where is your favourite place to read?
V: I love reading anywhere, but particularly in bed.
Y: The Newham Bookshop has been going strong for over 35 years now, what’s your secret?
V: We have been going for over 37 years and believe that our very strong links with our ever changing diverse community is key. We listen to our customers and hopefully reflect their book requirements in our stock. We have tried to make the shop a welcoming place, not intimidating; for many people coming in it will be the first bookshop they have visited.
Follow Newham Bookshop on twitter @NewhamBookshop or visit their website.
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