[Editor’s Note: As you know – the More Bookshops the Better has been a pretty steady sentiment on this blog – so in hopes of seeing a new one pop up in Nuneaton, UK we’ll help Michael get the word out and keep his enthusiasm pumping.]
In March 2011, after visiting a local town, I came to the realisation that where I live, Nuneaton, UK, lacked a significant element of Culture. Nuneaton is actually the home town of George Eliot so you’d think that there would be masses of bookshops but alas, there is the large chain-store Waterstones and approximately 19 charity shops. Every month a large chain store was closing and the building being replaced by charity shops. I posted a blog on my own website www.barricadesrise.co.uk stating my frustration and how someone should start a bookshop or gallery or something. The idea festered in me until I decided one day that, yes, that person is me. After finding out my wife and I were expecting though, I scrapped the idea, until Easter this year. I researched it, researched it then researched some more. I had savings, mounds of books and desire but my stopping point was my job. After a change in job roles I decided (and was ordered by my wife!) to quit it and focus 100% on the bookshop, so I did!That was August. Since then I’ve sorted bank accounts, collected thousands of books and contacts and almost a property. As I type I have the solicitors letter next to me that I need to sign to progress further for the property. I’ve been told a completion date will be January so I’m looking to open in February or March. I have managed to start selling online though. The website was set up a few months ago and is growing steadily and can be found at www.thebigcomfybookshop.co.uk. I add books more or less daily and so far there are about 1000 on there. I also started a blog about the shop, books and Nuneaton at www.thebigcomfybookshop.
This blog has given me so much support and help via posts. I’ll keep you updated to how I’m getting along.
Michael McEntee