Finsbury Park’s famous Black bookshop, New Beacon Books (NBB), celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016. Unfortunately, following some difficult years, by January that event looked as though it might be its last.
The owners turned to social media to introduce the bookshop to a new audience and a new generation of readers. The tactic proved gratifyingly successful, and NBB is now enjoying a vibrant renaissance, with book sales reaching levels not seen for years.
The owners thanked all who responded to the rallying cry as well as those who donated to the gofundme page. The fund is now closed but exceeded its initial £10,000 goal to raise £12,723.
New Beacon said they were appreciative and humbled by the way the community had supported them from all over the country. Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, a long-time friend of the bookshop, not only offered his support but gave it immediately by buying four books.
New Beacon Books says it looks forward to the space becoming a real community hub once again, holding events like book launches, reading clubs and classes. A weekly Yoruba language class is already under way and an Ifa Learning Circle begins in April.
This coming Saturday 8 April there is an ideal opportunity to support this iconic institution and to browse through its astonishingly varied stock as there will be a small market taking place in the shop.
New Beacon Books can be found at 76 Stroud Green Road, London N4 3EN; tel: 020 7272 4889 or 07921 992 836. Opening hours are 1.30–6pm Wednesday–Saturday.
