Independent Bookshop Week 2025: a celebration of indie bookstores across the UK and Ireland

What is Independent Bookshop Week?

Organised by the Booksellers Association, IBW shines a spotlight on the unique soul of indie bookshops, from carefully curated shelves to heartfelt customer service. The event encourages book lovers to rediscover their local literary havens and support independent booksellers who champion community and individuality.

Why 2025’s Edition Matters

Record Participation: Over 700 independent bookshops have signed up, setting up what’s expected to be the biggest IBW yet.

Event Highlights: Collaborations with publishers like Sweet Cherry and HarperVoyager include author talks, bookshop crawls, and daily spotlights on standout indie stores

Community Engagement: Social media campaigns like #IndieBookshopWeek and tailored features, such as Sweet Cherry Publishing’s “Amazing Indie Interviews”, aim to deepen the public's connection to these shops.

How to Take Part

Book enthusiasts can celebrate IBW by:

When visiting a local independent bookshop, many offer exclusive deals and events.

Joining a bookshop crawl, explore clusters of stores in cities like London, Bristol, or your local area to unearth hidden gems.

Sharing your experience online with hashtags like #IndependentBookshopWeek to help boost awareness and support.

What’s on Offer from 14–21 June

Daily store spotlights feature many shops, which are being showcased online to share their stories and products.

Indie Awards shortlists are revealed in conjunction with the week, highlighting exceptional books, such as Accounting books or Novels, chosen by independent retailers.

Community-driven events, author signings, live readings, children’s storytelling sessions, and more will be hosted in stores from small towns to major cities.

Why It Matters for Readers and Communities

Independent bookshops offer more than books—they provide community hubs, personalised recommendations, and a curated sense of culture. In an era of online convenience, IBW champions the real-world value and resilience of these local businesses.

Mark your calendars for 14–21 June 2025, and join us in celebrating the creativity, passion, and community spirit of independent bookshops across the UK and Ireland.

For updates on participating shops, events, and bookshop crawls near you, visit your local bookstore’s website or the Booksellers Association’s IBW page.

Let’s come together to make Independent Bookshop Week 2025 the most meaningful yet!