Brown Books is a second hand bookshop inside 33@77, 77 High Town Road, which will be open for a year as part of a pilot project with Luton Literature CIC (LLCIC) and Luton Community Arts Trust (LCAT).
As well as being a treasure trove of pre-loved literature, the shop will be used to run a number of literary events; storytelling sessions, book readings and signings, poetry events, book clubs and other children’s activities. The intention is to use the space to encourage a love of reading and creative writing at any age, and to promote the early uptake of reading in children.
LLCIC intend to work with other local organisations focusing on literature, publishing and creative writing, including No Ordinary Bookshop; an independent bookshop based in Luton Indoor Market that specialises in inclusive representation in the books they sell. They stock a variety of fiction, non-fiction, dual-language, and multicultural books, ranging from baby books to adult fiction.
This exciting pilot project has been made possible by LCAT, who are running the National Lottery Heritage Funded Accidental Archivist project from shop and who have invited LLCIC to join then.
The Accidental Archivist project is devoted to the collection of stories, lost tapes and memories from the community, audiences and artists that made LCATs famous 33 Arts Centre special and unforgettable. Those wishing to contribute to the Accidental Archivist project can do so by popping into the shop or contacting Paul Jolly at LCAT.
Over the year, Luton Literature hopes to demonstrate the value and need for a bookshop in the area, and the positive impact it can make on the local community.
This is a not-for-profit project. Funds raised from the venture will be put towards the next Book Festival planned for 2024, activities for the community as part of the project, and the wider remit of Luton Literature CIC.