Relocated and recently reopened, Little Acorns Bookstore is a haven not only of books, but so much more. Jenni Doherty and her thousands of books has opened new doors just last week on Foyle Street, Derry.
Like everyone else in business Jenni was forced to close her doors mid March. Although she had her new premises secured before lockdown, it was made impossible to move until recent weeks. As soon as lockdown was over, Jenni and her army of movers set to work, and the end result was the opening of those welcoming doors on Foyle Street just last week.
Little Acorns Bookstore is a haven of so many sorts. Books are first and foremost here. Jenni also stocks literary gifts, stationery, cards and so much more. Today I even purchased a box of the cutest little baby socks for my newborn granddaughter Ailbhe. Little Miss Ailbhe also got a book of course, and I’m certain she is going to grow up reading lots from Little Acorns Bookstore.
The new premises is situated at 11 Foyle Street, Derry; just across from the Foyle Bus depot and a very short distance from the Guildhall. This really is a little treasure trove in the heart of the city. Everything about this new space is appealing, from the sign over the door to the masked penguin on entry.
Little Acorns Bookstore is very well laid out with the local section, literary section, history, health, fiction and the rest. But the one area that appeals to everyone is the wonderful children’s section she has to the far left back of the shop. With colourful mats, table and chairs (for the little folk) it just has that warm, inviting welcome throughout. You will find Scooby Doo amid the bookshelves, and there’s a chair in every nook to take time out and browse a page or two.
Jenni is always on hand to advise, find a book, or get a recommendation from. She’s never far away. As time goes by, there might even be some literary functions happening in the equally delightful back room of the bookstore. This haven of delights is never-ending.
Having been down the west of the country on a staycation when Jenni opened her doors last week, I was very eager to get in today to visit. I was only planning on saying hello and having a nosey, but as always there’s always something you just have to have from this store. But what made today equally special when I visited was my meeting two very special young folk. Florence (8) and her brother Louie (11) were also visiting Jenni today. As well as buying lots of books, they were delivering a handmade gift to Jenni to wish her well in her new premises. This was a lovely piece of artwork, saying ‘Keep Going’. This will be a beautiful addition to the décor in Little Acorns. And it’s a really important message to for everyone. Florence and Louie were eagerly picking up books to read and it showcased for me just how important this little bookstore is.
Words cannot do this bookstore justice, you just have to visit. Little Acorns Bookstore is open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm. Go see for yourself what a haven this really is. But don’t be in a hurry, you won’t want to leave.
GMcC
North West Culture Gal 