Released:
2:39 p.m. June 19, 2022
A popular Suffolk bookshop will have a new owner from Monday, who has pledged to continue the previous owner’s “great work”.
Susie Keepin will take over management of the Woodbridge Emporium in the Thoroughfare after a friend spotted an advert for a new owner on social media and contacted her knowing she was looking for an independent bookshop.
She said: “The bookshop felt right as soon as I walked in, it’s a very special place.
“I’m also excited to be in a position where I can enjoy being a part of my local community and continuing the great work of Jules Button.
“The Woodbridge Emporium is already known as such a friendly, welcoming and inclusive place for book lovers and I hope it stays that way.”
In February, EADT announced that a search was underway for a buyer because the shop was trading so successfully that the previous owner could not run both the bookshop and the loose-leaf tea side of the shop, which relocated to Christine’s Patisserie and Tearoom was April.
At the time, Ms Button said she was looking for a “wordsmith” who shared her passion for books and would love the shop as much as she does.
The new owner added: “Woodbridge Emporium will continue to be a fabulous independent bookshop first and foremost.
“There will be more of the popular author events, and we are planning many fun activities for elementary age children to enjoy after school and during the holidays.
“I have a particular interest in children’s literacy and also want to support children with dyslexia, hopefully by working closely with the Suffolk Dyslexia Association as our chosen charity.
“In the coming months, more than a third of retail space will be dedicated to children’s books.”
She said she will be expanding the collection of local books and greeting cards from Suffolk artists, while also continuing to offer books by mail and through the website.
“I can’t wait to start selling books and I hope people will stop by to say hello. I look forward to making many new book-loving friends,” she added.
