Help Secure Bookbugs and Dragon Tales Future

We opened the doors to Bookbugs and Dragon Tales in August 2019, with brains full of ideas, hearts full of love and a passion for books, reading and the belief that books can change lives. Oh, and a huge loan to get our fledgling business up and running! For 7 months, we watched as the people of Norfolk took us into their lives and confirmed what we always believed - there was a need for a city centre inclusive space for children and grown-ups. A place filled with magic and wonder, excitement, activities, coffee, kindness and community.

The C Word

Then Covid. Like so many new businesses, Covid had a huge impact on us. We had to close the doors but were determined to ensure the spirit of Bookbugs was still there for our wonderful customers. We ran daily storytimes on Facebook Live, created bespoke home-school bookpacks, offered same day local delivery and did all we could to stay afloat. When we were able to open once more, we tried to make social distancing fun - with a giant 2m Snakes and Ladders board on the floor, superhero masks and gloves and bookable slots to have the bookshop to your own bubble. We even created a music video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUQ62lXo_-4&t=24s

The Other C (oL) Word

Unfortunately, we now find ourselves facing another challenge with the Cost of Living Crisis. The business is exactly where we hoped it would be at the end of year 1, with 6,500 loyalty card customers, a growing schools outreach programme, The Dorothy Amery Readers Awards (where we gift books to children who may not otherwise have access) and a strong presence on the high street and in our community. However, we are not at the end of year 1, we are at the beginning of year 4. Due to a number of factors beyond our control, there is simply more going out than there is coming in and we would love your help to enable us to continue and thrive.

How Can You Help?

As the driving force behind Bookbugs and Dragon Tales, I am bursting with ideas, enthusiasm, passion and a knowledge that books can change lives. As a child, books helped me to change my circumstances, educate myself and offered a world of possibilities. The kindness and belief of others gave me confidence to pursue my goals and Bookbugs pays this forward in the hopes that other young people will be able to do the same. However, working 6 days a week in the shop and not taking a salary means that there is very little breathing space to put these plans into action. And here is where you may be able to help!

£6,000 will allow me to pay a member of staff to cover the shop for 1 day a week for a year, so I can work on applications for grants and funding to bring our outreach and events to areas that don't have easy access to the city. With the closure of mobile libraries, we hope to be able to bring books to life for children and adults in more rural communities.

£2,000 will allow me to pay facilitators to develop and deliver the outreach programmes, as well as bringing new and exciting events and activities to the shop.

£7,000 will help us to confidently face the next 6 months by contributing to rent, rates and utilities at the shop. This will allow us some time and space to bridge the gap and move forward on a more secure footing.

Thank You!

We know that times are tough for so many at the moment and appreciate any help that you are able to give. If you aren't able to contribute financially, please know that your support, love, kindness, friendship and feedback is very much appreciated and the reason we believe so wholeheartedly in Bookbugs and Dragon Tales. We are more than a bookshop and we want to be there for you and your families for a long time.