A new independent book festival celebrating Sheffield’s local bookshops, small publishers and emerging literary talent launched in Kelham Island.

The Sheffield Indie Book Festival, held on 25 and 26 April, brought together readers, writers, booksellers and local creatives across three venues in one of the city’s best-known independent districts. 

Sarah Scales, one of the event organisers, said: “It’s lovely to be able to show the breadth of the book community in Sheffield and bring people together to celebrate it.

“This weekend is also about showcasing Sheffield’s literary community, especially in response to growing concerns facing independent businesses.”

Among the booksellers involved was Novel, a bookshop and café based in Crookes, which recently announced its closure due to safety concerns and a lack of support. 

Events were hosted at The Lodge, The Chapel and The Mowbray, with visitors attending author talks, browsing book stalls and supporting local makers throughout the weekend.

Local craft businesses also played a key role in creating the festival’s community atmosphere.  

Evie Godfrey, illustrator and owner of Ragtag Ratbag, was one of several creatives running stalls at The Mowbray.

They said: “Events like this are important ways of championing human-made art, especially in an age of AI.”

Godfrey added that the event was also “great for networking with other creative people” and said Sheffield had maintained a strong creative identity.

Isabel Hornby, University of Sheffield student, said: “Being in a room with other people who all share the same passion for books is something that can’t be replicated

“Today has made me feel very connected to Sheffield’s community. This may be the best weekend I’ve had in Sheffield”.

This book festival joins a multitude of annual events hosted at Kelham Island, including the Kelham Victorian Christmas Market and the Steel City Beer and Cider Festival.

These events have played a major role in shaping Kelham’s growing reputation as a vibrant hub for independent culture and creativity.

Organisers said money raised from ticket sales will help fund the festival’s return next year and support future independent literary events, following what many described as a highly successful debut weekend.