Since its inception in 2014, Bradford Literature Festival (BLF) has partnered with Waterstones, the festival’s official Book Partner, to host events, showcase the work of authors and poets, and celebrate a love of literature. For over a decade, this collaboration has grown into a fantastic relationship, uniting expertise and passion to champion books and inspire readers.
Year on year BLF drives sales in the Bradford store as well as Waterstones’ pop-up shop located inside the BLF Festival Hub in City Park, and at book signings after events. Waterstones sees many new customers as a huge number of book lovers arrive in the city, touring the many beautiful venues and discovering new additions for their bookshelves.
Waterstones’ Bradford store is considered by many to be the most beautiful bookshop in the UK – housed in the grade-I listed Victorian Wool Exchange, built between 1864 and 1867. Its stunning gothic architecture means the store is a draw for history enthusiasts and bookworms alike.
BLF has hosted many festival events in this unique space, from Meet the Author events, where families can enjoy a children’s book reading from their favourite authors, to fascinating talks, and authors in conversation. Artists in recent years have included Alison Weir, Lemn Sissay, Dr Irving Finkel, and A.C. Grayling.
Syima Aslam, CEO and Artistic Director of BLF, said, “Our partnership with Waterstones has been a wonderful pillar of the Bradford Literature Festival throughout the 11 years of BLF. Together we’ve been able to create memorable experiences for audiences, from engaging children’s events to in-depth conversations with authors, all within one of the most beautiful bookshops in the country. The enthusiasm of audiences, reflected in the incredible book sales year after year, is a clear sign of how successful this collaboration has become. We look forward to continuing to build on this success in the years ahead.”
Abby Guessis, Manager of Waterstones Bradford, said: “Working alongside Bradford Literature Festival is something we’re thrilled to do year on year. The festival is such a boon to the city of Bradford and drives so much in the way of cultural education, we’re so happy to be able to be the official Book Partners for it. The pop-up shop is one of our yearly highlights, and we’re excited to continue working alongside the festival.”
Visit Waterstones Bradford