Mayo bookshop selected for An Post Bookshop of the Year longlist
TWELVE bookshops across the country have been longlisted for the An Post Bookshop of the Year category at this year’s An Post Irish Book Awards, the annual literary event that celebrates and promotes Irish writing and authors to the widest range of readers possible.
The longlist includes Books at One, based in Louisburgh.
The Bookshop of the Year category is designed to acknowledge the significant role played by independent bookshops and local branches of bookshop chains in helping their local communities to find and savour the titles of their choice.
Customers were asked to vote for their favourite bookshops, with the bookshops that received the most votes then being longlisted. They have now been invited by the judges to submit a written entry.
A shortlist of six bookshops will now be selected by an independent judging panel, with the shortlist to be officially announced on October 22.
The overall winner will be presented with their trophy at the An Post Irish Book Awards event on December 1 along with a prize worth €5,000 from An Post Commerce.
Sinéad McCorry, chairperson of the An Post Irish Book Awards, said: “Bookshops are the cornerstone of many communities across Ireland, and this category was established to recognise the central role they play - not only within the book trade, but in celebrating Ireland’s rich and extensive literary heritage. More than just places to buy books, they are cultural hubs that spark creativity, bring people together and foster a love of reading among people of all ages.
“We are particularly delighted to see such a strong and geographically diverse group of bookshops represented on this year’s longlist, reflecting the important contribution independent and local bookshops make in communities right across Ireland. We extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to all of the longlisted bookshops.”
Commenting on the important role bookshops play in local communities, Garrett Bridgeman, managing director of An Post Mails & Parcels, said: “At An Post, we see first-hand the important role local bookshops play, not only as cultural hubs within their communities, but as vital businesses contributing to local economies across Ireland.
“Through An Post Commerce, we work with businesses of every size to help them reach customers, grow their sales and compete in an increasingly digital marketplace. This award celebrates the resilience, innovation and commitment of Ireland’s booksellers, and recognises the significant contribution they make to the commercial and cultural life of communities nationwide.”