A mum is set to open a late-night bookshop and coffee shop in Tamworth after being diagnosed with a debilitating autoimmune condition.
Jennie Martin started training as a paramedic during Covid and worked in the 999 control room before being diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis, which had left her feeling unwell and exhausted for many years.
She took a 9-to-5 job with an insurance company, but eventually decided it would be better to work for herself so she could better manage her health and energy levels.
She decided to follow her dream of opening a ‘quirky’ bookshop where people could meet up in the evenings and enjoy savoury snack and sweet treats made by local bakers.
Jennie said: “I’d always had the thought in the back of my mind, wouldn’t it be good to have a quirky bookshop? After being poorly for such a long time, I thought why not give it a try?
“It’s a big dream. I struggle more in the mornings so I will be able to do the school run and go back to bed if I need to. I am creating something that works for me.”
The Bolebridge Mews shop, which was previously a European supermarket, is currently being transformed into The Book Nook, which will sell pre-loved books across all genres alongside new titles, mainly thrillers, fantasy, romantasy and dark romance.
Jennie plans to work with three or four local bakers and hopes to offer gluten-free and vegan options depending on demand. She will also offer rent-a-shelf space for local crafters to sell their work.
Once the shop is up and running, she hopes to host events including craft nights, cheese and wine evenings and sessions with psychic mediums.
Proposed opening hours, which are subject to change, are Tuesday and Wednesday from 12pm to 8pm, Thursday and Friday from 2pm to 10pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
Jennie said: “My daughter goes dancing four nights a week and it made me think about where all the mums and dads can congregate while they’re waiting.
“I wanted to create somewhere where like-minded people can chill while they’re waiting for their kids. I want it to be a bit of a hub for people who would like to meet but don’t want to go to a pub.
“It will be somewhere different and will be a friendly, safe place for people to come to. I am excited and terrified about launching, but I can’t wait to open the doors.”
