Future of Kenilworth bookshop hangs in the balance

[dutchman]

Kenilworth’s community bookshop is fighting back against closure thanks to increasing support across the town.



Former lecturer and book lover Victoria Mier opened the Tree House Bookshop as a not-for-profit community venture last year.

After less than 12 months she announced the shop would be closed for good after struggling to make ends meet and keep the business going for day and evening events.

But now the shop at the former Job Centre in Abbey End may be here to stay after the book-lover was inundated with messages of support and ideas on how to boost interest.

“Since I said I would be closing the support has been incredible,” she said. “People have come in and been helping with ideas to get things picking up and it really does make me think twice and inspire me to keep going. I will keep going and see what happens, as it would be a real shame to close before our first birthday.”

Victoria explained that although book sales were more than she could have ever expected, the venture needs evening events, readings and music nights to pick up to keep money flowing.

As well as offering open reading and working space, second-hand books and evening events, the idea is for all profit and money made to go back into the community.

But costs to keep the shop open need to be covered before this can be done.

Anyone with ideas on how to boost income, events, or to rent shop space can contact victoria@treehousebookshop.co.uk