The owner of a new independent bookshop in Farsley has been ‘blown away’ by the positive response from people on West Leeds.
Truman Books in the former Bond’s on Farsley Town Street officially opened for the first time on Saturday and saw queues forming outside and dozens of people posting on social media.
After more than two decades working in the travel industry and frequently jetting out to the Far East from her London home, owner Amanda Truman had to put her career on hold because of the pandemic.
But – as WLD first reported last month – with little hope of a quick return to normality for travellers, Amanda decided to have a complete change and did what nearly every book lover dreams of doing, she decided to buy her own bookshop – and chose Farsley.
A graduate of Leeds University, she spent some time in the city before returning to London to work, though kept in touch with her friends up here.
It was one of those friends who suggested she open her shop in Farsley, which has become something of a haven for independent shops and businesses.
Amanda thanked people for their support on Facebook:
“Yesterday was extraordinary. I was completely blown away – seems like the whole of west Leeds was in the shop!
“Thank you so much for the amazing support and generous welcome. It truly was a dream come true to have people browsing the shelves, chatting over coffee, and choosing books with their kids.
“I barely had a second to breathe, let alone check the socials, so I know I missed a lot of mentions and comments. Sorry if I haven’t replied to you, but know that your support is truly appreciated.”
One commenter on Facebook welcomed the new bookshop and said:
“Just fantastic to have an independent book shop so near by. We came on Saturday and our daughter absolutely loved the teen section. Thank you so much.”
Another added:
“Your shop is super and like a breath of fresh air. Cannot wait until my next visit. Congratulations on your opening weekend.”
And a third said:
“Love to see an independent book store, there are so few left. My mum lives in the village and is bringing my daughter in this weekend.”
Trumans also offers tea and cake and Amanda is planning to host events in the shop in the future.