Fiction-led store with ‘pay what you feel’ shelf launches on Boston Street
THE BOOKSELLERS ASSOCIATION has welcomed a new addition to Wales’ independent bookshop scene as Books & Brews prepares to open in Holyhead.
The new store, located on Boston Street, will officially open its doors on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Specialising primarily in fiction, Books & Brews offers a carefully curated selection spanning thrillers, horror, romance, fantasy and science fiction, alongside a smaller range of non-fiction titles. In addition to books, customers will also find loose-leaf tea and tea-related products, chosen to complement what the owner describes as a slower, cosier browsing experience.
Community at its heart
A key feature of the shop is its focus on accessibility and inclusion. A small second-hand book section will operate on a “pay what you feel” basis, aimed at ensuring reading remains accessible to all.
The space has been designed to be warm and multi-functional, with plans to host author events, book clubs, children’s story times, workshops and creative gatherings for all ages.
Books & Brews is owned and run by Hollie Webster, who has balanced setting up the business alongside her career in the Civil Service. She also serves on the committee for Folk on the Farm, a local festival run on behalf of Tyddyn Môn, a charity supporting adults with learning difficulties.
A lifelong reader, Hollie said the shop represents the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.
“Books have always been my way of connecting with the world and with other people,” she said. “I read predominantly fiction – everything from thrillers and horror to romance, fantasy, science fiction and epic fantasy – and I love how each genre gives us a different way to explore ourselves and others.
“What I love most is talking to people about books: sharing recommendations, hearing what a story meant to someone, and recognising how much of ourselves we give away when we talk about what we love to read. That sense of shared experience is what I wanted to build here.
“I chose Holyhead because it’s my community. I wanted to create a space that feels safe, welcoming and genuinely for everyone – whether you’re an avid reader, just finding your way back to books, or simply looking for a place to belong.
“The ‘pay what you feel’ second-hand shelf is especially important to me because access to reading should never be a privilege. Books & Brews is about making literature accessible, creating connection, and giving people of all ages a place to gather and feel seen.”
‘A wonderful example’
Amy Bradley, Interim Membership Manager at the Booksellers Association, said the shop reflects the best qualities of independent bookselling.
“Books & Brews is a wonderful example of how independent bookshops serve as community spaces,” she said. “Hollie’s thoughtful focus on accessibility and inclusion creates a welcoming environment for readers of all ages. We are delighted to welcome Books & Brews to membership and look forward to seeing it become a beloved cultural hub in Holyhead.”
Books & Brews opens officially on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
