Isabella Garcia from Austin, Texas, recently had the unique opportunity to run a bookshop in Wigtown, Scotland, as part of a volunteer program at the Open Book. This small shop in southern Scotland has become a popular holiday destination, with a two-year waiting list for those eager to experience the dream of running their own bookshop.
Isabella, a humanitarian aid worker, jumped at the chance to spend five nights in Wigtown, running the shop for four days. Despite the damp Scottish weather, she found the experience to be delightful and rewarding. She was surprised by the number of visitors who came through the shop during her stay, and she enjoyed the picturesque surroundings of the town.
The Open Book has become a significant contributor to the Wigtown Festival Company’s charitable work, generating about £10,000 a year. Since its inception, nearly 450 guests from around the world have stayed at the shop, immersing themselves in the quaint charm of Wigtown.
Isabella’s time at the Open Book has inspired her to potentially open her own independent bookshop in the future. She appreciates the sense of community and support for small businesses in Wigtown and looks forward to returning for the book festival in September.
Overall, Isabella’s experience at the Open Book in Wigtown highlights the magic of small-town living and the joy of sharing a love for books with visitors from near and far.
