As a young primary teacher in the 1970s I used to visit the New Beacon Bookshop in Stroud Green Road to buy books for pupils that reflected my multiracial classroom as well as books for my own self-education about Black history, culture and literature.
Now 50 years later the woman credited with saving New Beacon when it fell behind the times and could no longer provide the service modern customers required, has brought her skills and passion to Brent in the form of Book and Kulture, an on-line book shop dedicated to providing books and cultural resources reflecting our diverse society. It will now offer an in-person service at its premises in the former Brent History Museum at the The Grange on Neasden roundabout.
New Beacon was founded by Sarah White and her husband John La Rose in 1966 and it was John's grandson Renaldo La Rose, with his wife Vanessa who took on the task of saving New Beacon from closure .
Vanessa La Rose said:
It is important now more than ever that we create as many opportunities for Brent residents to access diverse books and crafts. As one of the most diverse boroughs in London, it’s astounding that we will be one of only three independent bookshops in the borough. We hope that by opening our doors we will encourage people to take more of an interest in reading and look at books that feature more reflective characters.
On Tuesday 1st June Book & Kulture will extend their online offering of diverse books and crafts to those living/working locally by opening their doors to customers allowing them to browse through their diverse range of books and crafts in store. Whilst the bookshop won’t carry the extensive range offered on the website, the selection gives customers an insight into the vast array of diverse books and crafts available.
The Grange
Located in The Grange, the former Brent Museum in the centre of Neasden roundabout, the shop will open every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 11am – 4pm and on every second Saturday of the month from 10.30am – 6pm.
There is parking at The Grange and pedestrians can reach it by the pedestrian bridge (please don't try and cross the road on foot!)
