Welcome Freshers!
Hello fresh-faced Freshers and learned locals of Southampton!
We are October Books, your friendly neighbourhood bookshop with a heart as warm as a freshly baked sourdough. Whether you're a first-year arriving at Southampton University with bags full of excitement (and maybe a smidge of nerves) or a seasoned academic back for more, we’re here to add a little magic to your new chapter.
A Word on Southampton Uni
Southampton University! A venerable institution that manages to combine groundbreaking research with a student social scene as lively as a flock of seagulls at a chip shop. Whether you're diving into marine biology, unraveling the mysteries of AI, or simply trying to remember where the library is, you’ll soon find yourself at home. Pro tip: don't fret too much about finding lecture halls—half the fun is getting lost and discovering something else entirely!
Now, let's talk about us (briefly, we promise). Nestled in Portswood, October Books is not just a place to pick up your academic reading ;) we're a community hub, an escape from the hustle, and a treasure trove of books you didn't know you needed. Have you ever wandered into a bookshop and left with the *exact* book you didn’t know was missing from your life? well… we specialise in that.
Need advice on *which* novel pairs best with a rainy afternoon and a cup of coffee? Looking for a place to relax between Freshers’ Week events? Our doors are always open (except, you know, when they’re closed).
For the Freshers: A Survival Guide
Freshers! That wonderful blur of meeting new people, signing up for societies you’ll never attend, and wondering if it’s socially acceptable to ask how a washing machine works (answer: it is). Here’s a little something from us to you:
1. Explore Beyond Campus
Sure, Southampton Uni has everything you need on campus, but a five-minute jaunt down Portswood Road will lead you to our humble bookshop. We guarantee you'll find quirky reads, eco-friendly gifts, and, best of all, a friendly face to chat to when it all gets a bit much.
2. The Great ‘Reading List’ Dilemma
We know, we know—those reading lists seem endless, and yes, half of them are probably optional (we didn’t say that, of course). But whether it's ancient Greek tragedies, the latest in postmodern philosophy, or good ol' English literature, we’ve got your back. If you're looking for something off the syllabus, we’ve got plenty of juicy fiction too.
3. Need a Break?
Freshers’ Week is hectic. If you need a moment of calm, pop in for some quiet browsing or to ask us about our hard day's work… you can absolutely do that and we will welcome you with open arms
For the Not-So-Freshers
Perhaps you’re in your final year, gazing wistfully at Freshers’ events and reminiscing about your youthful exuberance (which was, let’s face it, only last year). We see you, and we raise you a well-earned treat—a novel to devour between dissertation drafts or a second-hand treasure to remind you of simpler times.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re here to hit the books or dodge them entirely (we don't judge), Southampton and October Books have plenty to offer. From adventures to moments of solace, we’re here for the long haul, ready to guide you through the chaos and calm of uni life.
So, Freshers, welcome to Southampton! And remember, the world is your oyster—just don’t forget to stop by for a good book on your way.
Lots of love,
Amelia and Jack
