The Secret Bookshelf: Carrickfergus retailer Independent Bookshop of the Year finalist
An independent bookshop in Carrickfergus is in the running for a major accolade at The British Book Awards - for the third year in a row.
The Secret Bookshelf was named Independent Bookshop of the Year for the island of Ireland in 2024 – the first time a Northern Ireland-based retailer had claimed the title.
The store, located at The Courtyard, has this year made the shortlist for the same category, joining fellow finalists Antonia's Bookstore in Meath, Bridge Books in Dromore, County Down, Liber Bookshop in Sligo, Woodbine Books in Kildare, and Tales for Tadpoles in County Wicklow.
Since opening its doors in 2020, The Secret Bookshelf has become a hub for the local literary community, regularly hosting writing workshops, storytelling events and author talks.
Commenting on this year’s awards, Tom Tivnan, managing editor of awards administrator The Bookseller praised indie bookstores for “proactively moving into areas that tap into local needs”, such as launching festivals and supporting local schools.