Independent Bookshop Week: A Shout-Out to Our Stockists
To celebrate Independent Bookshop Week, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our favourite indie bookshops across the UK. Independent bookshops were among our very first customers back in the 80s and 90s, and they continue to be a key part of our community today. We’re so proud to see our cards on their shelves!
Why We Love Independent Bookshops
There’s something truly special about stepping into an independent bookshop - from the carefully curated shelves to the handwritten staff picks...these spaces are so much more than just shops; they’re homes to community, creativity, and discovery.
Indie bookshops are often run by passionate booksellers who take the time to know their readers, support local authors and makers, and bring people together around a shared love of books.
They care deeply about quality, originality, and connection - values we hold close, too!
A Spotlight On Some Of Our Favourite Indie Bookshops
Looking for a new indie bookshop to support? Read on to discover a few of our much-loved bookselling shops - and explore our collection of book-themed greeting cards, perfect for literary lovers and available in many of these wonderful shops.
October Books 📍Southampton
Founded in 1977, October Books in Southampton is a not-for-profit, radical neighbourhood bookshop and community hub. A long-time customer of ours, they offer a range of events for authors and book lovers alike.
Follow October Books on Instagram
David's Bookshop, 📍Letchworth
David’s Bookshop, Music & Café is an independent, employee-owned trust. A newer customer to us, this local treasure in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, has been part of the community since 1963. They sell both new and secondhand books, quirky cards and gifts (cough cough), records, CDs, DVDs, and games. What’s not to love?
Follow David's Bookshop on Instagram
The Aldeburgh Bookshop, 📍Aldeburgh
This beautiful indie bookshop in the heart of Aldeburgh, Suffolk, has been going strong for over 70 years. Founded in 1949, it’s a must-visit for anyone heading to the coast.
Follow The Aldeburgh Bookshop on Instagram
Imagined Things Bookshop, 📍Harrogate
If you’re near the lovely town of Harrogate (where we’ll be for a trade show soon!), make time to visit the wonderful Imagined Things Bookshop. Founded by Georgia in 2017, it was the first indie bookshop to open in Harrogate in nearly 20 years. They stock books of all genres, plus a gorgeous range of cards and stationery.
Follow Imagined Things Bookshop on Instagram
Gay's The Word, 📍London
Gay's The Word is the UK's oldest LGBT bookshop, set up in 1979 by a group of gay socialists. It was one of our very first greeting card stockists! For over four decades, they’ve championed the work of queer writers and fostered a warm, welcoming community space for readers of all identities. A true landmark in every sense.
Follow Gay's The World on Instagram
Dulwich Books, 📍Dulwich
An award-winning indie bookshop that’s been serving the South East London community for over 40 years. Dulwich Books hosts brilliant author events, is staffed by expert booksellers, and offers a beautiful space to browse and buy.
Follow Dulwich Books on Instagram
Lighthouse Bookshop, 📍Edinburgh
Scotland’s leading political bookshop, Lighthouse is a queer-owned, women-led, award-winning community space in the heart of Edinburgh. Known for their fierce commitment to radical politics, intersectional feminism, environmentalism, and LGBT+ writing, they’re as bold and brilliant as the books they stock.
Follow Lighthouse Bookshop on Instagram
One Tree Books, 📍Petersfield
And finally - One Tree Books: an award-winning indie in the picturesque market town of Petersfield. Founded in 1994, they’re passionate about literature, and we love how involved Tim and the team are over on Instagram.
Follow One Tree Books on Instagram
How to Support Indie Book Shops
The best way to support brilliant indie bookshops like these is to visit them in person - browse the shelves, chat with the booksellers, attend events, and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’re not nearby, you can still show your support by following them on social media, sharing their posts, and shopping directly from their websites (if they have one). Every little interaction helps keep these vital community spaces thriving.
Greeting Cards for Book Lovers
Whether it’s a tribute to your favourite authors, a playful illustrated spin on literary classics, or just some good old-fashioned word puns - our Cards for Book Lovers collection is made for book lovers. They’re the perfect companion to a great read, and loved by the many brilliant bookshops who stock them.
Browse our Cards for Book Lovers collection now.
