Bestselling authors back Edinburgh bookshop crowdfunder

The Edinburgh Bookshop has launched a Crowdfunder campaign to support a move to bigger premises this summer.

Donors can claim rewards donated by local authors, including a trip to the city’s Oxford Bar with Ian Rankin, afternoon tea with Alexander McCall Smith, a personal appearance by Maggie O’Farrell at their book group or the chance to have a character named after them in a novel by Lin Anderson.

The bookshop is relocating to a former off licence in the city’s Bruntsfield neighbourhood, which should let the team stock nearly double the range of titles, provide a dedicated children’s room and give the space to hold most events and clubs within the shop itself.

The new site at 176 Bruntsfield Place is also just a few doors away from the birthplace of Muriel Spark - author of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie - and the shop will include a tribute to her.

Marie Moser, owner of The Edinburgh Bookshop, said: “We are delighted to be moving to a bigger site, but we don’t want to just add more bookshelves.

“We are determined to create something magical for our community, where adults and children alike can immerse themselves in the wonder of books.

“We are truly touched by the generosity of these literary superheroes, and those customers who have already pledged to the fundraiser.”

All donors will have their names included in a supporters’ window in the new shop.

The Edinburgh Bookshop has been named Scottish Independent Bookshop of the Year five times in the last decade - having been a part of the Bruntsfield community for 14 years.

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