An Unexpected Bookmonger Life Update

Before you read any further, settle in, get comfortable, and pour yourself something cosy. Tea if you prefer, or maybe something stronger, as this update is a little heavier than usual and might require it.

Hi, I'm Caitlyn, the owner of The Bookmonger in Bearsden. The Bookmonger is our independent hybrid bookshop, wine shop and cheese bar; a space we built within our community, and alongside our customers and our team. There's a rare day that goes by without me there, as this is my second home.

But if you've been in over the last few weeks, you've probably noticed my absence, and I'm finally ready to share the story behind that.

The original catalyst for the creation and development of The Bookmonger came from my experience surviving breast cancer in 2023. As I emerged from one of the toughest and most traumatic experiences of my life, I leaned into my creativity and found purpose in creating a space for readers, grounded through my love of food, wine and unique experiences.

Unfortunately, my past has again become my present,  and I am currently amidst treatment for cancer again.

For privacy reasons, we're keeping the details of my diagnosis closed. But know that while we have highs and lows daily, we are keeping positive and taking each step day by day.

As you can imagine, this news landed as a shock. To my young family, to those we love abroad and here in Scotland, to our friends, and to our team, with whom we consider family.

The number one thing we want you to take away from this update is that The Bookmonger isn't going anywhere. Since day one of my diagnosis, we've been quietly working behind the scenes to keep the business going.

My husband, John, has stepped in to take over much of what happens behind the scenes, so that I can focus on my treatment and on healing, whilst also caring for our family. You'll see more of him around, and a little less of me on the floor for a while, though I'm never far away. 

The Bookmonger has become a staple in our community, and we intend to keep it that way. Jenna, our most senior member, has been promoted to lead the shop day to day, and Ruth has stepped up significantly alongside her. Between them they're keeping everything moving: orders on the system, inventory in stock, social media updates and book club, with Ruth also looking after our private events, and customer enquirires.

You've probably met Niamh, who has been a staple in our shop over the summer and has since been jumping in to cover shifts.  She'll also be helping us onboard Elizabeth, our newest member, who we are thrilled to have on the team.

With two new roles and a new face starting, there may be the odd learning curve. Please bear with us while everyone settles in. They are brand ambassadors and champions of this business just as much as I am.

And for getting in touch, nothing changes. You can still reach us through social media or at hello@thebookmongerbearsden.co.uk, both of which are monitored daily.

On events, we've cleared a few things from the diary that hadn't been announced yet. Everything else is going ahead as planned, and we may even add a few extras along the way. 

We're still open seven days a week, with a few planned interruptions. Please check our social media, Google and Apple Maps before making the journey in. And don't forget our late hours on Friday and Saturday nights. Consider those the designated hours for commiserating together over a fine glass of champagne. I'm told it isn't on the treatment plan, but it should be.

We are still the same Bookmonger you've grown to love, with just a few adjustments.

At times like these, people always want to know how they can help. The honest answer is that we'd never ask for more than you're happy to give.

If you shop with us regularly, just stop by and say hello. Even if you don't buy a thing, we'd love to see your face. And a hug, if you're a hugger, because we could all use one right now.

If you can't make it in, shop with us online instead. On the rare days we're closed, we'll be running incentives to shop the website, with delivery straight to your door, so you never have to go without a book.

If supporting us financially isn't possible just now, tell a friend about us, share our posts, or leave a review on Trustpilot, Google or Apple Maps.

And if you are shopping, make the most of our Inner Circle rewards programme. You'll earn 5% back on everything you spend with us, in store and online, with gift vouchers the only exclusion. It makes this a good moment to start your holiday shopping early. We've still got plenty of special purchases and exciting launches ahead.

Things have been a bit chaotic lately, between the scans, the appointments and the treatment I've been receiving so far from the incredible team at the Beatson. But when I'm ready, I'll get back on camera and check in with you properly. 

For now, this is the update. It isn't a good one, and it isn't the one any of us were hoping for. But I know that this community, above all others, can rally together and we can support each other through it.

We can't thank you enough for being part of our Bookmonger family. Together, we'll get through this.

Much love,

Caitlyn