News Release December 2024
Cotswolds Bookshop Scoops ‘The Best Bookshop in The Cotswolds' Award & Celebrates the Opening of its Brand-New Sister Shop in Burford
The Madhatter Bookshop, an independent gem in the heart of the community, is celebrating a double triumph this season: the bookstore has just been awarded ‘The Best Bookshop in The Cotswolds' award, recognizing its outstanding contribution to local culture and the literary world. In addition, owner Kim Harvey is proud to announce the opening of a second store, a charming traditional toyshop, expanding her thriving business empire. This exciting new venture builds on the success of her original bookshop, continuing her mission to inspire creativity, imagination, and a love for reading and play. As a dedicated woman entrepreneur, Kim is proving that passion, innovation, and a strong sense of community can create something truly special.
Kim said: "I took over the Madhatter Bookshop in February 2020, whilst it was not the best time to take on a retail project as the world went into lockdown I was determined that Burford would not lose its long standing bookshop. One of the things I did was move the children's section from the back of the shop to the front. With a dramatic decline in children saying they enjoy reading I wanted to do everything possible to bring the joy back to getting lost in another world and so the plan to open a bookshop devoted to young readers was hatched.
Kim continues: "On 30th August this year the plan become a reality with the opening of Little Madhatter Emporium right across the street from The Madhatter Bookshop. I have combined books with toys and games to create two floors of fun for all the family. There is comfortable seating by the fireplace and a room for carers and their little ones to take a breath from a busy day. In the new year we will start a book club for younger readers and regular story-time for re-schoolers."
"I am absolutely thrilled at being recognised in this way, with my Madhatter Bookshop being awarded the accolade of the best bookshop in the Cotswolds! It makes the years of hard work so much more worth it! I strongly believe that reading not only improves language skills, grows knowledge and broadens vocabulary, but it is also a gift that opens new worlds and those worlds will grow with you."
ABOVE: The award-winning Madhatter Bookshop in Burford on the High Street, owned by Kim Harvey since February 2020.
BELOW: The Madhatter Bookshop and (right) Owner, Kim Harvey.
BELOW: Kim's new traditional toyshop, The Little Madhatter Emporium; and Kim outside her shopfront with Father Christmas.
BELOW: The Little Madhatter Emporium with (left) a secret ‘Narnia' walkthrough wardrobe; and (right) a cosy fireside armchair to relax in.
ENDS
For all Media Information please contact:
Jo Welch, The Cotswold PR Company, 07767 416 092