Round Table Books, a thriving inclusive bookshop in Brixton Village, South London, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to finance its relocation to a larger space. The bookshop, which has operated as Round Table Books CIC for six years, focuses on literature that celebrates Global Majority, LGBTQIA+, Global South, Neurodivergent, and Disability experiences.
Despite its success, the current location no longer meets the growing demands of its operations.
The crowdfunding initiative aims to raise £50,000 to fund the move to an expanded community hub within Brixton Village, an area described as the heart of Lambeth. So far, the campaign has collected nearly £18,000, with donations being accepted until January 2, 2026. The funds will support not only the physical move but also the development of improved facilities, including coffee and wine service at competitive prices.
Round Table Books seeks £50,000 to create a larger community space in Brixton Village, offering expanded services beyond books.
Round Table Books envisions its new location as a vibrant community space that will accommodate more events, including children’s story time sessions and author speaking opportunities. The expanded site will allow the bookshop to build upon its established reputation for hosting notable authors throughout the year while continuing to provide a welcoming environment for diverse visitors. Many residents may support the expansion since it resembles successful community initiatives like the popular rhyme time group sessions at South Chingford library.
The bookshop’s situation mirrors other community spaces facing similar challenges. For instance, South Chingford community library recently changed locations due to a lease ending, moving to a smaller space in a laundrette with a more affordable rent. Such shifts highlight the importance of community support for maintaining cultural spaces.
Community-supported venues often rely on volunteers to raise funds for operational costs like rent and utilities. These spaces typically offer various programs, from creative activities to employment initiatives, but frequently encounter resistance from property owners who prefer commercial tenants.
