Local artists entered a competition to design the next tote bag for Fullers Bookshop, in one of several events the Hobart store is running for Love Your Bookshop Day.
The annual celebration, held today, recognises the work independent bookshops do in their communities, including with schools, libraries and charities.
Olivia Dennison, a bookseller and publishing assistant at Fullers, said the tote bag competition was one of the main events celebrating the day.
“It’s a chance to have artwork displayed all around the city, as well as win a $250 cash prize and a $200 Fullers voucher,” she told Pulse.
Dennison said the winner could work with the shop’s in-house graphic designer to adjust the artwork for print if needed.
The 107-year-old bookshop will tonight host a book speed dating event.
Guests are asked to bring a copy of their favourite book and swap seats to talk about it.
“It’s gonna be really fun and it’s kind of like a hot seat situation,” Dennison said.
She said the event was open to both single people and those in relationships.
“It’s just a chance to come and make connections about the books that you love,” she said.
“But who knows? Maybe we’ll get some nice little bookshop ‘meet cute’ stories.”
Dennison said the shop had already sold “quite a few tickets”.
A bookmark-making workshop in the shop’s Afterward Café will also be held from 2:30pm to 3:30pm today. Tickets cost $10 and include a café drink.
A bunting and craft area will be set up in the children’s section. Colouring sheets will be available in the café over the weekend for a chance to win a $50 voucher.
Tickets for the events are available on the Fullers website or in store.
