James Patterson Increases Donations To UK Bookshops

Patterson Increases Donation to U.K. & Irish Indies - Shelf Awareness

James Patterson will provide a second donation of £250,000 (about $369,465) to independent bookshops in the U.K. and Ireland following the success of this year's grants. More than £130,000 has already been allocated to 73 independent bookshops since the the first round of applications last September. Patterson also named the 68 booksellers who will receive the remaining grant allocation of £120,000.

James Patterson

"I have been completely overwhelmed by just how many people have applied for the grants second time round, and yet again have been impressed and enthused by the caliber of the applications," Patterson said. "It's been very exciting to see the ideas from the first round in action. I have again worked to identify independent bookshops for whom this money may make a difference and I'm excited to follow their progress. I can't wait to see what the U.K. and Ireland's incredible and pioneering bookshops propose for next year."

Tim Walker, president of the Booksellers Association, commented: "We are very much looking forward to seeing the grant funding being implemented by the successful bookshops.  We are thrilled that so many U.K. and Irish indies have shown such creativity and passion in their applications. For the lucky shops, the James Patterson money will make a real difference to how they reach children and encourage them to read. The announcement of a further donation of £250,000 is fantastic news for bookshops and anyone who loves reading. We are delighted that James Patterson is continuing to act on his love of bookshops and his appreciation of their vital importance to cultural and community life." Eligible bookshops in the U.K. and Ireland can apply for a grant via the Booksellers Association website.