2026 sees Chichester join the Government’s National Year of Reading.
As part of the district’s Go All In campaign, led by Children’s BookFest and supported by Chichester Festival Theatre and Chichester BID, local city centre businesses are embracing simple, thoughtful ways to keep reading woven into everyday city life. One of the loveliest? Book swaps.
Across the city centre, these small pockets of discovery invite you to pick up a story, pass one on, and enjoy the unexpected charm of sharing books.
Robin’s Nest Coffee Shop, Baffins Lane
Robin’s Nest Coffee Shop is tucked away in Baffin’s Court in the Eastern Quarter of the city. Run by owner Rosie, her aspiration was to create a welcoming space centred on community, connection, and quality.
Built around a love of great speciality coffee and tea plus delicious homemade food, the café was designed to be somewhere people feel comfortable lingering – whether meeting friends, taking a quiet moment, or stumbling across their next read.
The café’s book swap initiative perfectly reflects that ethos, adding another layer of warmth and discovery to this much-loved independent spot.
Jam Café, South Street
Located on South Street, round the corner from Chichester’s train and bus stations, Creative Beatz Jam is a not-for-profit community café built around a wonderfully simple idea: Community, Coffee and Craft.
Known for its relaxed, inclusive atmosphere and creative energy, Jam Café offers a natural home for shared experiences, including its own book swap initiative, where stories are passed from one reader to another.
Pret A Manger, East Street
Pop into Pret Chichester on East Street for your favourite sandwich, baguette, salad, coffee or snack, and browse the book swap shelf for a riveting read to enjoy in-store or take away. Finished a great book recently? Leave it on the shelf so the next reader can enjoy the discovery too.
Why book swaps matter
Book swaps do something quietly brilliant for a city. They spark curiosity, encourage conversation, and make reading feel visible and accessible in everyday places – cafés, shops, hair salons and shared spaces we already love.
They’re also wonderfully simple: no pressure, no rules, just the pleasure of sharing in the joy of reading.
Become a book swap location
Would your business like to be part of Chichester’s Year of Reading? Hosting a book swap is an easy way to join the city-wide celebration. To find out more simply get in touch: [email protected]