A BOOKSHOP in Ryedale has been named as a finalist in a prestigious national book awards.

Kemps Bookshop, in Market Place, Malton, has been named as a finalist in the British Book Awards 2023.

The British Book Awards 2023 Independent Bookshop of the Year Award, sponsored by book wholesaler Gardners, celebrates stores that continue to support their local communities with bespoke bookselling and tailored initiatives.

In total there are 59 independent bookshops listed across nine different regions and countries.

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These included ten in South-East England, nine in South-West England, eight in North England, Scotland and Wales, seven in London, four in the Midlands, three in East England and two in Ireland.

'We hope this will help put Malton on the map for book lovers'

Kemps was founded in 2017 by Liz Kemp, who told the Gazette & Herald: “I'm thrilled and surprised that we have been shortlisted for this award. 

“As a relatively young bookshop to be recognised in this way is amazing and a credit to our brilliant team and loyal customers. 

“I hope it also underlines our commitment to our community, local schools and high street.  

"We hope this will help put Malton on the map for book lovers as well as food lovers.”

Gazette & Herald: Liz KempLiz Kemp (Image: Newsquest)

'Indies have come through what could have been a hugely devastating time'

Tom Tivnan, The Bookseller managing editor and chair of the Independent Bookshop of the Year judges, said: “If there is one thing that has been driven home by these finalists it is that independent bookshops have been one of the winners of the pandemic.

"Indies have come through what could have been a hugely devastating time for the sector in their stronges position in decades.

“We have seen this generally in the increased numbers of indies throughout the UK and Ireland.

"But we also see it more specifically in these finalists with the shops’ innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity - all done in the service of local communities.

"We have entered a new golden age for independent bookshops."

The regional and country winners of the Independent Bookshop of the Year award will be announced on Thursday, March 16, 2023; the overall winner will be revealed during The British Book Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House London on Monday, May 15, 2023.

First launching in 1990, the British Book Awards or ‘Nibbies’ has been a major name in awards – celebrating books and everyone who makes them.

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It is supported by all major industry associations including The Publishers Association, The Booksellers Association and the Independent Publishers Guild.

Judged by leading industry experts a spokesperson for the awards said it is regarded as "the BAFTAs of the book trade".

You can join the conversation by following The Bookseller on Twitter and Instagram and using #BritishBookAwards.

More information about Kemps can be found on the store’s website: https://www.kempsgeneralstore.co.uk/ or on its social media pages.