Founded in the charming city of Oxford in 1988, Blackwood Books Ltd. began as a small, independent bookshop with a big dream: to share the joy of reading with the world. From our humble beginnings, nestled amongst the dreaming spires, we have grown into a globally recognized bookseller, serving customers across continents while staying true to our local roots. Our journey has been one of continuous evolution, adapting to the changing landscape of the book industry while upholding the timeless values of quality, expertise, and community.
At Blackwood Books, we believe in the transformative power of stories. Books have the ability to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to fascinating characters, broaden our horizons, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It is this belief that fuels our passion and drives us to curate a truly exceptional selection of books, spanning genres, eras, and cultures. We strive to offer something for every reader, from the latest bestsellers to forgotten literary gems, from children's classics to cutting-edge contemporary fiction.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to inspire a lifelong love of reading in every individual we serve. We aim to achieve this by providing not only exceptional books but also unparalleled customer service. Our team of knowledgeable and enthusiastic booksellers is dedicated to assisting you in finding your next great read, offering personalized recommendations, and creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all book lovers. We are more than just retailers; we are literary guides, passionate advocates for reading, and dedicated members of the Oxford community.
Community engagement is at the heart of Blackwood Books. We believe that reading is a shared experience, and we are committed to fostering a vibrant community of readers through author events, writing workshops, book clubs, and partnerships with local schools and libraries. Our bookshop is not just a place to buy books; it is a gathering place, a hub for literary conversations, and a space where book lovers can connect, share their passions, and celebrate the written word. We are proud to be a cornerstone of Oxford's literary scene and look forward to continuing to serve and inspire readers for generations to come.
Our Core Values:
- Passion for Literature: We are driven by a genuine love for books and a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling.
- Exceptional Customer Service: We are committed to providing every customer with a personalized and delightful shopping experience.
- Community Engagement: We believe in fostering a vibrant community of readers and supporting literacy initiatives in Oxford and beyond.
- Integrity and Trust: We operate with honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical business practices.
- Continuous Learning and Innovation: We embrace change and are always seeking new ways to enhance our services and better serve our customers.
A Brief History:
- 1988: Blackwood Books opens its doors in a charming corner shop in Oxford, quickly becoming a beloved local institution.
- 1995: Recognizing the evolving needs of readers, we launch our online bookstore, expanding our reach across the nation and beyond.
- 2005: We begin hosting regular author events and writing workshops, further solidifying our role as a community hub for book lovers.
- 2015: Our rare book sourcing services expand internationally, connecting collectors worldwide with literary treasures.
- 2023: Blackwood Books proudly celebrates 35 years of bookselling in Oxford, marking over three decades of literary passion and community service.
