Located on Queen Street just off the High Street, the shop stocks a wide range of pre-loved books, records, and CDs. A Novel Idea is run mainly by volunteers, with all profits going to Catalyst Support. Catalyst is a Surrey charity offering 26 services supporting people with issues including mental health and wellbeing, substance misuse, finances, and housing.
There are books for everyone at A Novel Idea! Thanks to the generous donations of local people, the shop holds a variety of books for both adults and children including thrillers and travelogues, romance and literary fiction, books about philosophy and cookbooks. If you don’t see what you’re looking for on the shop floor, try asking one the helpful volunteers, as it may be hiding round the back. Typically, paperbacks are priced at £2 and hardbacks at £2.50.
It doesn’t stop at books! Working in partnership with Make a Difference with Records, the shop also offers an extensive collection of vinyl, CDs and sheet music that are checked for quality by the team. Rediscover old favourites or find new ones from the diverse selection of LPs and singles. CDs start from £2, singles and albums vary but are competitively priced. There are over 10,000 records and CDs waiting to refill the shelves.
“Working at A Novel Idea is a labour of love,” says Manager and former volunteer Alan Garvey. “We have a great team of volunteers who value what the shop offers, and that it contributes to the work of Catalyst Support. Some of our volunteers received help from the charity in the past and now the shop provides them with a helpful role in the community and an opportunity to give back.”
Catalyst is always looking for new volunteers to join their friendly team. If you are interested, please contact Volunteer Development Manager Mark Burton via email at mark.burton@catalystsupport.org.uk or call 07714 744150.
Visit A Novel Idea at 9 Queen Street, Godalming, GU7 1BA, for a browse, for recommendations and to help support their work. Opening times are Tuesday-Thursday 10am-1pm, Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm.
