Don't Miss this New Podcast Series Exploring the West's Best Bookshops

Between the Shelves is hosted by Rossa McDermott, a podcaster whose regular show, Aran Island Discs, sees Irish personalities discussing their taste in music on the imagined backdrop of the rugged west coast.

Now diving into the world of books, Rossa has launched a brand new podcast, set to shine a light on bookstores across the West of Ireland and beyond. Focused on championing in-person bookselling and physical bookshops, it highlights some Galway favourites.

The six-part series began on Saturday 13th June, and has continued to release episodes throughout Independent Bookshops Week (13th-20th June).

Every bookshop has a story

Between the Shelves will see McDermott and six incredible independent booksellers from Galway, Leitrim, Connemara and Mayo discussing the passion, commitment and creativity that makes Ireland’s beloved independent bookshops thrive. Despite years of "digital takeover" predictions, physical books continue to be in strong demand and the West of Ireland is home to some of Ireland's most iconic and beloved bookstores.

The booksellers will chat about all things books and bookselling; from how they fell in love with literature and their favourite reads, to the value of the physical bookshop in the community, and why online retailers can't capture that magic.

Featured guests include:

• Tomás Kenny, Kenny’s Bookshop in Galway
• Vinny Browne and Méabh McDonnell, Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop in Galway
• Orlagh Kelly, The Reading Room in Carrick-On-Shannon
• Mary Ruddy, Books At One in Letterfrack, Connemara
• Lisa Murphy, Books at One in Louisburgh, Co. Mayo 
• David Brennan, Castle Books in Castlebar

“Independent bookshops are much more than places to buy books. They are places of discovery, conversation and connection.”

Why independent bookshops matter

Speaking of his motivations for the podcast, McDermott shared his belief that “independent bookshops are much more than places to buy books. They are places of discovery, conversation and connection.”

“The people who run them are custodians of culture, introducing readers to new voices and keeping local communities engaged with literature. This series celebrates their remarkable contribution to Irish life," he continued.

The podcast is sponsored on behalf of Books at One and the Community Fund Project, which is an initiative that helps bookshops connect with their local communities. They hope to inspire a lifelong love of reading. 

You can listen to Between The Shelves on all major podcasting platforms.