Law firm charity Gunnercooke to open first bookshop in Manchester

A law firm’s charity is opening the first of several independent bookshops this autumn, focusing on combatting loneliness in big cities. 

Gunnercooke’s first shop, The House of Books & Friends, will be located on King Street in Manchester, inside Bruntwood’s Manchester Club building. The space will incorporate a cafe, bookshop and events space, and has been set up as a Community Interest Company, meaning the community must benefit from the investment rather than private shareholders. 

It will offer initiatives for customers and businesses through pay-it-forward schemes, as well as opportunities to make connections with their community through events and a café.

Projects funded by book sale profits will engage the square mile around the shop, working alongside local charities to combat social isolation and connect people.

Heading up the first shop will be manager Naomi Self, who previously worked at Waterstones. Recruitment for other positions is underway. 

“Loneliness is a widespread and growing issue in our society," said Darryl Cooke, founder of the firm. "It can affect anyone of any age and can come about from many different causes at any time. We believe that bookshops can provide a powerful tool.

“Reading can connect us physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. When we read we are not alone. Our focus will be to connect all the charities we work with and, at the heart, to develop a culture of connection."