For Sookdeo, the story of The Olde Book Shoppe begins with an unyielding love for books that has been a constant companion throughout her life. From the earliest memories of childhood, books played a significant role.

There’s a delightful recollection of her childhood, sneaking a forbidden Mills and Boon romance novel from her mother’s collection, unable to read it but captivated by the allure of those printed pages.

“Books have always been more than mere objects to me; they’re an essential part of my existence. This profound connection with the written word inspired me to take a bold step.”– Sookdeo

The birth of The Olde Book Shoppe occurred at the end of 1996, the same year Sookdeo got married. Armed with a collection of books she had amassed over the years, she transformed her cherished dream into a reality. Her shelves, though somewhat bare at the beginning, held the promise of countless literary adventures.

The journey into entrepreneurship was uncharted territory for Sookdeo, but her determination to make it work was unwavering. The sense of accomplishment she felt was immeasurable – this was her very own business.

The Olde Book Shoppe offers a treasure trove of used books at fantastic prices. It’s a haven for book lovers seeking a wide range of new and used novels. The shop also offers a unique service: sourcing books through Amazon and other online retailers.

What sets them apart is not just their extensive collection but the personal touch they bring to each customer’s literary journey. They specialise in various genres and, at times, carry the complete works of favoured authors.

The Shoppe also buys books locally, a challenge in itself as the condition of these books doesn’t always meet the high standards set by the shop’s US purchases.

The rise of Kindle and other e-book readers posed an initial challenge. Many customers, enticed by the digital reading experience, temporarily turned away from physical books. However, The Olde Book Shoppe persevered, and their patience paid off as customers returned, craving the feel of an actual book in their hands.

Another challenge lies in the decline of children’s interest in reading. This trend has had far-reaching consequences, particularly for students facing exams like SEA, where creative writing carries substantial weight. The shop has seen parents rushing in, hoping that books would kindle their children’s love for reading.

The reading landscape has seen a shift, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more time on their hands, people turned to books as a means of escape and entertainment. The rise of Booktok and other social media trends created a renewed appetite for reading.

For The Olde Book Shoppe, social media became a vital tool for staying connected with customers. Their Facebook page serves as a platform to reach readers across Trinidad and Tobago who might not have discovered them otherwise. Here, they showcase their top picks and introduce readers to new and exciting authors.

Innovation and adaptability have been crucial for The Olde Book Shoppe’s survival and growth. The pandemic forced a shift from physical interactions to online engagement. They now post their in-store offerings on social media, enabling online payments and utilising Ttpost services for deliveries. This approach has made them more accessible to a wider audience.

To diversify their income streams, they introduced BBW skincare and other product lines. The shop evolved, embracing new avenues while remaining dedicated to their first love—books.

Sookdeo offers a sincere piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, “If you love books, dive into the business. It may not lead to untold riches, but the reward lies in the joy of connecting with like-minded readers and sharing the magic of a good book.”

Over her twenty-seven years in the business, Sookdeo has not only met wonderful people but has seen her shop become a sanctuary for book lovers.

The joy of discovering a sought-after book, the excitement of new stock arrivals, and the camaraderie with customers who become family are the true treasures of The Olde Book Shoppe.

It’s a place where every visit is a treasure hunt, and the unexpected discovery of a hidden gem awaits. In Sookdeo’s world, the love for books is celebrated, one page at a time.

Discover literary treasures at The Olde Book Shoppe – where stories come to life. Join Sookdeo in celebrating the magic of books.

Contact Details

Phone: 868662 9335