Sir

I read with interest the letter about Bookshops (ST 18/07/10) and fully agree with the comments made. Although online shopping has a definite edge over the price in most high street bookshops and large supermarkets, there is still a feeling of pleasure to be obtained from searching carefully for the volume required in a small and intimate emporium, with knowledgeable staff and feeling of personal service. Some larger suppliers have this service but the small local and privately owned bookshop is a very valid service which is growing increasingly rare.

Our small bookshop has thrived for some years now, and promotes local writers with promotional evenings, guest 'signings' and so on. Even a discount loyalty scheme and efficient ordering service.

Buying online might be the cheapest way, adding a couple of volumes to the weekly shopping trolley might be the easiest way, but the small independent bookshop is probably the friendliest way.

Nigel Strachan

Church Stretton

Shropshire