Events
IBW's Big Book Club
Join us for a very special edition of our book club!
In line with Independent Bookshop Week, celebrating indie bookshops, and the National Year of Reading, Big Book Club is a nationwide campaign to get as many indie bookshops to host their book clubs on the evening of June 17th.
We are thrilled to be participating alongside our Bring Your Own Book club and very happy to be joined by Coffee Woolston's book club!
Click below for more information...
Bring Your Own Book Club
Join us for our book club on Saturday 27th of June at 11am!
This friendly, informal group is open to anyone aged 18+.Just bring along a book you're reading or that you’ve read — one you loved, hated, or are still thinking about — and be ready to chat about it over a slice of cake. Don't worry if you don't have the physical book to bring, we'll hand you a piece of paper to write the title in!
Each session will run for around an hour and a half and is all about sharing stories, discovering new reads, and connecting with others who love books in all their forms.
No pressure, no set reading list — just good conversations.
Come along and bring your book!
Poetry Open Mic Night 19th June - With Special Guest Rich Lansley
Special guest Rich Lansley will be presenting his new collection of poems from the last 2 years - ‘Brilliant Beings’ is written for your hearts. Rich is a writer and performer based on the south coast of Hampshire. His work is a balance of whimsical comedy and honest reflection. Rich continues to push the boundaries of what poetry and comedy can be and leaves audiences with a lasting impact long after the applause has left.”
This event is hosted by Amelia Simpson on the 3rd Friday of every month. Welcome to all, whether it's your first time performing or you are a seasoned poet. Arrive by 6:45pm for a 7pm start. Amelia will take your name on the door if you would like to perform. Any performances are welcome but times must not exceed 10 minutes, this is to give everyone ample opportunity and time. Open to all poetry, prose, and spoken word.
How to Community Promote workshop
From the promotion and marketing lead at October Books, Vera presents the How to Community Promote workshop🗓️
Social media doesn’t have to be scary…in fact, you might not need social media at all!Come to the first workshop, where you get help in understanding promotional goals and how to reach the right people. No complicated marketing language, just creating the right promotion for the people who will be interested in your product/service.
Through interactive discussions and exercises, you will create your own social media post, flyers or logo! Everyone will bring something home to start your promotion journey!
🎨 Suitable for crafters, artists, creatives and small businesses🧵
Details:
Dates/Times🕰️ 11th July 2026, Saturday 3:00-4:30 pm
Tickets 🎟️
General admittance £10
October Books collaborators £8.3
* all existing/previous event organisers, crafters or volunteers of October Books
** First workshop participants get £2 off for the second workshop
Writers' Group
We are a varied group that meet and give friendly and genuinely constructive criticism of one another's work, every last Thursday of the month from 7:00pm at October Books. If you're new you can join the mailing list for updates!
Writers of all styles, experience and ability are welcome. You can submit your work in advance of meetings, so that everyone can read it ahead of time. Booking is not required, but there is a £5 charge on the door, to help us keep running amazing events like these.
Next meetings
- 30 April 2026 7pm
- 28 May 2026 7pm
Regular Community Events
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Mondays - Veg Out Cafe
More info hereA pop-up vegan community cafe, using food waste. Pay what you feel.
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Tuesday - Radical Reading Group
More info hereSecond Tuesday of the month, 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Discussing radical and revolutionary ideas through the medium of chapters and short texts.
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Wednesday - Quaker Meeting
Email for DetailsThird Wednesday of the month, 6.15pm - 7pm. Everyone welcome
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Friday - Co-working Space
Catch up with your work in the cosy and well equipped bookshop environment. £5 for the whole day.
Check our online calendar before visiting, as occasionally we may have a private hire. -
Saturday - Collage Club
Every 4th Saturday of the month 3:30 - 5:30pm. Materials provided. £5. Cut, stick and make whatever you want.
