A new indie bookshop which champions queer literature and the local LGBTIQA+ community has opened in Leeds.
The Bookish Type, located in the Merrion Centre, opened earlier this month.
The independent business aims to promote a diverse range of queer literature as well as creating a community space for book lovers from different generations.
Co-owner, Ray Larman and Nicola Hargrave were inspired to open the bookshop after many years of browsing alternative bookshops and running pop up stalls at events including the Leeds Queer Film Festival.
Ray Larman said: “We are so excited to finally open our doors to the public. The Merrion Centre is home to some of the city’s most unique independent businesses and it’s great for us to be joining such a diverse mix of indie operators and bring a new LGBTIQA+ space to Leeds.
“We have received a variety of enquiries from publishers keen for their writers to come along to give talks, and so we hope to stage a series of literary events to showcase these authors as we settle into our new space.”
Helen Green, Property Director for TCS said: “We are delighted to welcome ‘The Bookish Type’ to the Merrion Centre family. With an existing, eclectic mix of independent operators including Jumbo Records and the Chilli Shop, it is fantastic to welcome yet another unique venue that we are sure will follow the success of its neighbouring ‘indies’ in attracting a new audience to the Arena Quarter”.
