189 Portswood Road, Portswood, Southampton SO17 2NG https://octoberbooks.org/
Contact: info@octoberbooks.org
Tour of the behind the scenes sustainability features of the shop Saturday 20th September, 11-12.30
October Books is a co-operative, radical neighbourhood bookshop and community hub.
Founded in 1977 in Bevois Valley, they then moved to rented premises at 243 Portswood Road. In November 2018, with the help and support of their community, many of whom invested time, money and physical labour, they moved to their own premises, at 189 Portswood Road. From there, they trade independently from any political organisation, and seek to promote a fair and equal society.
In the move to community owned premises in 2018 there was the opportunity to walk the talk and install solar panels on the roof. They have also created a small community garden on a small area of concrete at the back of the shop, which has reduced fly tipping and created a space for the community to use.
In addition they have a dedicated community space which they can hire to the local community. They also host workshops and events which allow community to come together to talk about their concerns about the climate, the environment, our political system and more, as well as a place to demonstrate more sustainable ways of doing things. They have also held film screenings and art events that highlight particular elements of the climate crisis.
Come and visit us on Saturday the 20th August to find out more about the products we sell, the sustainable features of our building, the stories of some of their stuff and their events and to meet others with similar interests.