The inaugural Saturday Sanctuary was held over the weekend in the U.K. and Ireland. Replacing the Booksellers Association's Civilized Saturday initiative, the new campaign aimed to "celebrate bookshops as a place of calm and respite from our hectic daily lives. Customers will be able to enjoy exclusive offers on books, herbal teas, meditation, cozy reading corners--and much more." Using the hashtag #SaturdaySanctuary, participants shared their experiences and reactions on social media. Here are just a few highlights.
BAMB: "Happy #SaturdaySanctuary everyone! Escape to a bookshop today and treat yourself to a book or two. Oh, and best not to forget the Christmas presents too. One for them, one for you, one for them, one for you, etc."
Drake the Bookshop, Stockton-on-Tees: "Look look look! This lovely pamper hamper is up for grabs at our Saturday sanctuary event, come along for a day of stressfree shopping--cake and prosecco is optional--relaxing is mandatory! Thanks @BAbooksellers."
Sheelagh na Gig, Cloughjordan, County Tipperary: "Rachel of Lime Tree Botanics dispensing complimentary tea and herbal advice at our free #BookSpa."
Hungerford Bookshop, Hungerford: "Our latest updates: Tonight's #SaturdaySanctuary (wine, candles, twinkly lights, and of course--books); plus don't forget to book for 'My Husband & I' & 'A Short History of Drunkenness.' "
Gutter Bookshop, Dublin: "Had enough of #BlackFriday? Pop into your local bookshop & enjoy #SaturdaySanctuary! Because books make us happy..."
The Grove Bookshop, Ilkley: "Can't say our shop's been a #SaturdaySanctuary today--it's been utter bedlam, which is just how we like it this close to Christmas!"
Harris&Harris Books, Clare: "They came... They drank... They shopped... They left. #bibliotherapy @booksaremybag #SaturdaySanctuary."