How this Norfolk children’s bookshop is encouraging families to read together |
Founded by librarian Marilyn Brocklehurst, the shop has developed into a purpose‑built space carrying a large and carefully selected range.
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Bookshop manager Annie Rhodes said the ethos of the shop has always been about reading for pleasure and reading together.
“We encourage our customers to sit for as long as they like and read with their children,” she said.
“It’s so important that parents understand the benefits of reading to and with their children. Lifelong bonds are forged and sustained between parent and baby through shared reading experiences and continue throughout childhood.”
Bookshop manager Annie Rhodes (Image: Norfolk Children's Book Centre)
The shop stocks up to 30,000 books, including new titles, graphic novels and classic reads. Shelves are organised by age, interest and theme.
The shop also carries books on sensitive subjects that arise at home or in school, including bereavement and displacement.
“Reading for pleasure should be the essence of all reading – and encompasses the right to choose what you want to read, whether that be a comic book, a novel or an information book,” Annie said.
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She emphasised that reading isn’t just an enjoyable activity – it has been proven to aid children’s development.
“Research from the Book Trust has shown that reading for pleasure is the single most important indicator of a child’s future success,” Annie explained. “It can improve language and social skills, help children to develop empathy and creativity, and reduce anxiety and stress.”
But children – and parents – sometimes need guidance to find the right book.
“Which is where we come in,” Annie said. “We have a team of hugely knowledgeable booksellers who are always happy to help find recommendations for our customers.”
Norfolk Children’s Book Centre was founded by librarian Marilyn Brocklehurst in Alby in North Norfolk (Image: Norfolk Children's Book Centre)
The centre’s Library Rejuvenation service helps schools refresh full collections, from audits to shelving. Topic approval boxes let teachers peruse and then purchase or return sets to match their needs.
The team even takes pop‑up bookshops to schools, festivals and conferences.
Teachers and school staff are also invited to make full use of the shop for visits to select stock for their library or for inset days.
“We want schools to realise how much value they can get out of using their local children’s bookseller,” Annie said. “We exist to help schools and teachers find the best books to use, as well as many free resources that we are happy to give away when they visit, such as posters and bookmarks.”
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Annie feels we need a combined and sustained effort to help encourage a positive perception of books and reading among children.
She said there are several ways parents and caregivers can model good reading habits, including reading aloud with enthusiasm, having a variety of book options at home, and making it visible.
“It’s never too late to encourage reading for pleasure,” she said. “If children see the adults in their life reading books for pleasure, they are more likely to learn these behaviours themselves, especially if they can see the enjoyment it gives them.
“Make the time to read with your children at least once a day – whether that’s after school for half an hour to unwind after a busy day, or a story before bedtime. The benefits for your children will far outweigh the time taken to read together.
“Encouraging a love of reading from an early age is a wonderful gift!”
For more information, visit ncbc.co.uk
This article has been published as part of Born & Read in Norfolk – a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing, headline sponsor RWE and sponsor YouGarden.
Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk