An independent Ayrshire book shop owner has been bringing the community together after the pandemic.
Sarah Frame, who runs The Book Nook in Stewarton, organised a mini festival in the town this week.
A number of authors have been in town as events for adults and children have been held all week.
Sarah told the Kilmarnock Standard: “I’ve run a couple of author events before, they have been successful.
“It’s independent book shop week this week, so I kind of thought I have to do something.
“I went out to some authors and got such a good response, it grew into running 11 events over the week.
“Four of them are for children, so that’s ideal.
“The exciting thing about it is that the Village Balti House have premises beside them that are currently vacant, so they let me use the venue free of charge.
“Without them it wouldn’t have been possible as I wouldn’t have been able to afford a venue for a week, and my shop is tiny!
“A crowd of my book club members helped get the venue cleared and ready, the John Knox Church helped me with tables and chairs and the Stewarton Arms helped me with crockery, then the Mill House sponsored refreshments.
“It’s a really good community event, it’s a free event so it really helps with the cost of living crisis.
“On Wednesday night we had Douglas Skelton, who is up for the McIlvanney Prize, and Morgan Cry.”
Sarah opened her shop in December 2020 – and was only trading for eight days before lockdown swung the doors shut.
She added: “It was horrendous, I knew we’d be closed in January, but I didn’t know it would be for four months.
“I did a little bit online, but I didn’t want an online book service.
“I wanted it to be in person, speaking to people, that’s what it’s all about.
“I have a nice base of regular customers, it’s just a case of growing that.”
The Book Nook was shortlisted for British Book Awards Independent Bookshop of the Year, and also shortlisted for top 20 in UK family business.
The festival runs until Saturday, June 25 and more information can be found here
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
