Background

People's Bookshop Durham: A Radical Haven for Second-Hand Books

Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.

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Nestled in the heart of Durham at 70 Saddler Street, People's Bookshop Durham is an independent, volunteer-run radical bookshop specializing in second-hand books. Established in 2011, it serves as a vibrant community hub, offering an eclectic mix of titles that reflect local history, culture, and progressive causes. The shop champions the preservation of physical books in an increasingly digital world, fostering a unique literary atmosphere in a historic university city.

A brief summary to People's Bookshop Durham

  • 70 Saddler St, Saddlers Yard, Durham, DH1 3NP, GB
  • +441913844399
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Wednesday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekday afternoons or Saturdays for the fullest browsing experience, as opening hours are limited.
  • Explore beyond bestsellers to find unique local history and radical literature reflecting Durham’s community.
  • Engage with the volunteers to learn about the shop’s community projects and upcoming events.
  • Bring cash as some purchases may be easier to complete this way, supporting the shop’s grassroots operation.
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Discover more about People's Bookshop Durham

A Community-Driven Radical Bookshop

People's Bookshop Durham opened its doors in 2011 as a volunteer-run, charitable community benefit society. It is more than just a retail space; it is a cultural and social hub that reflects the values and stories of Durham's diverse community. The shop is dedicated to providing a platform for radical ideas and voices often overlooked by mainstream bookstores, emphasizing the importance of literature as a tool for social change and education.

Eclectic Collection of Second-Hand Treasures

Specializing in second-hand books, People's Bookshop Durham offers an extensive and eclectic selection spanning many genres and periods. The shop deliberately avoids bestsellers and mainstream titles, instead focusing on pre-loved books that carry unique histories and narratives. Visitors can discover local history, folk stories, personal accounts, and works that document Durham’s industrial past, including the rise and fall of coal pits. This curated collection invites readers to explore forgotten knowledge and diverse perspectives.

Atmosphere and Location

Situated on Saddlers Yard, just off Durham’s bustling Saddler Street, the bookshop provides a quiet retreat from the city’s busy streets. The interior is cozy and inviting, filled with shelves crammed with books waiting to be explored. The shop’s radical ethos is palpable in its welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy the tactile pleasure of browsing physical books in a world increasingly dominated by digital media.

Supporting a Better World Through Books

The People's Bookshop is committed to supporting causes that align with its vision of social justice and community empowerment. Beyond selling books, it acts as a platform for local voices and progressive ideas, fostering dialogue and awareness. The shop’s volunteer-run model and charitable status underline its dedication to creating a sustainable, community-focused space that enriches Durham’s cultural landscape.

Visitor Experience and Engagement

Visitors to People's Bookshop Durham often find it a treasure trove of unexpected discoveries. The shop encourages leisurely browsing and thoughtful engagement with literature that challenges, inspires, and informs. It also serves as a gathering place for like-minded individuals interested in activism, history, and literature, making it a unique cultural landmark within Durham.

Operating Hours and Practical Details

The bookshop maintains a schedule that accommodates the local community, generally open from mid-morning to late afternoon on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly reduced hours on Mondays. This schedule supports its volunteer-run nature and community focus, inviting visitors to plan their visits accordingly to experience its full offerings.

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