Today's Read Team 
Independent Bookshop Week 2025: Celebrating Local Literature
Introduction to Independent Bookshop Week
Independent Bookshop Week, a yearly initiative dedicated to honoring independent bookshops throughout the UK and Ireland, is set for June 14th to June 21st, 2025. Established in 2006, this celebration highlights the crucial role these establishments play in fostering reading communities.
Ambassadors for 2025
This year, the Booksellers Association (BA) has appointed notable figures as ambassadors for the event. They include:
- Lorraine Kelly – Broadcaster and author
- Mike Gayle – Renowned author
- LD Lapinski – Author and storyteller
Furthermore, poet and author Michael Pedersen will compose an exclusive poem for the week, enriching the celebration with literary artistry.
Participation and Support
In 2024, the participation of around 700 independent bookshops, facilitated by the Booksellers Association through the Books Are My Bag initiative, demonstrated the widespread community support for local booksellers. Each participating shop received promotional kits filled with resources such as:
- Bunting
- Posters
- Bookmarks
- Postcards
- Shelf strips
This year, the initiative has seen an increase, with 723 independent bookshops already registered to take part, showcasing a growing enthusiasm for local literature.
Engagement Initiatives
In 2024, Books Are My Bag also introduced the Big Book Club initiative, engaging over 350 readers across 20 independent bookshops, further emphasizing community involvement in reading and literature.
Ambassador Perspectives
Lorraine Kelly shared her excitement about being an ambassador for the event, stating: “I am so thrilled to be an ambassador for Independent Bookshop Week. Independent bookshops play a huge part in communities across the UK as they create new generations of readers, which as a book lover is incredibly close to my heart.”
Sponsorship and Support
Hachette UK has stepped in as the headline sponsor for the 2025 edition, providing additional support and visibility for independent bookshops during this celebratory week.
Conclusion
Independent Bookshop Week continues to grow as a vital event that not only celebrates literature but also strengthens community ties through shared reading experiences. As anticipation builds for the upcoming week in June 2025, the involvement of celebrated authors and increased participation from local bookshops highlights the enduring love for literature and the importance of independent bookstores in our cultural fabric.