Free Schoolbooks Scheme: Death Knell for Independent Irish Bookshops

The Ripple Effect of Free Schoolbooks: A Double-Edged Sword for Ireland’s Independent Bookshops

In September 2023, the irish government launched the Free Books Scheme, providing free schoolbooks too primary and special education students. While the initiative has been a financial relief for families, it has had unintended consequences for independent bookstores across the country. Irene Gahan, owner of the now-closed Academy Bookstore in Drogheda, Co Louth, described the policy as a “death knell” for small bookshops.

Gahan, who called the closure of her store “heartbreaking,” revealed that schoolbook sales and the accompanying foot traffic made up nearly half of her business. “Parents aren’t coming in with their children during the summer anymore,” she explained. “Thay’re not buying schoolbooks, stationery, or even children’s books. The knock-on effect has been devastating.”

Empty bookshelves in a closed bookshop (Stock image)

The Free Books Scheme expanded to Junior Cycle students in September 2024 and will include transition year, fifth year, and sixth year students by September 2025. This has dramatically altered the bookselling landscape.Gahan believes smaller retailers are being pushed out by larger suppliers who can offer bulk discounts, leaving independent shops struggling to compete. “The fabric of Ireland was always built on small businesses—the butcher, the baker, and the bookshop,” she lamented. “Take them away, and you’re left with big brands. You lose identity. You lose community.”

A Changing Landscape for Booksellers

Bookselling Ireland, the trade body representing book retailers, reported that ten bookshops closed in 2024, with only one new store opening. This stark decline highlights the challenges faced by independent booksellers in adapting to the new market dynamics created by the Free Books Scheme.

the Broader Cultural Impact

Beyond the economic implications, the closure of independent bookstores has a cultural ripple effect. These shops ofen serve as community hubs, fostering a love for reading and providing personalized recommendations. Their absence leaves a void that larger retailers and online platforms cannot fill. “Independent bookstores are more than just shops; they’re part of the cultural fabric of our towns and cities,” Gahan noted.

Schools and Suppliers: A Balancing Act

While the Free Books Scheme has been praised for reducing educational inequality, its implementation has raised concerns about the concentration of power among a few large suppliers. Smaller bookstores, unable to compete with bulk discounts, are left with dwindling opportunities. This shift risks creating a monopoly-like habitat, where diversity in the bookselling market is eroded.

Looking Ahead

As the Free Books Scheme continues to expand, stakeholders are calling for measures to support independent bookstores. suggestions include government grants, partnerships with schools, and community-driven initiatives to keep these businesses afloat. Without intervention, the cultural and economic contributions of independent bookshops may become a thing of the past.

What Impact has the Free Books scheme Had on Independent Bookstores in Ireland?

The Free Books Scheme has undeniably reshaped Ireland’s bookselling industry. While it has alleviated financial pressures for families, it has also accelerated the decline of independent bookstores. For many, like Irene Gahan, the policy represents a bittersweet trade-off—a win for parents but a loss for local communities and small businesses.

the Free Books Scheme: A Double-Edged Sword for Ireland’s Independent Bookshops

ireland’s Free Books Scheme, designed to alleviate the financial burden on families by providing free schoolbooks, has been hailed as a progressive step forward.Though, its unintended consequences on independent bookshops have sparked a heated debate about the balance between progress and preservation.

The Scheme’s Impact on Independent Bookshops

Dawn behan, chairperson of Bookselling Ireland, acknowledges the scheme’s benefits for families but highlights its adverse effects on local bookstores. “It’s a great idea in principle, but the implementation has adversely affected bookshops in a massive way,” she said. “It’s changed the landscape of bookselling.”

A 2023 survey by Bookselling Ireland revealed that 49% of bookshops sold schoolbooks in some capacity. Behan pointed out that while the Department of Education consulted the association, ther was little understanding of the impact on smaller retailers. “Bookshops are closing in droves,” she noted. “All we can do is highlight what bookshops offer to their communities—cultural and social capital that can’t be replaced.”

“We’re providing a lot of cultural and social capital to local towns and villages,and if that’s gone,that’s it,” Behan added. “it’s very tough to get that kind of commitment and cultural appetite back.”

The Cultural Role of Independent Bookshops

Independent bookshops are more than just retail spaces. They serve as cultural hubs, hosting book clubs, supporting local authors, and sponsoring arts festivals. Their closure, Behan argued, would have a ripple effect on ireland’s cultural ecosystem. “These shops are pillars of their communities,” she said. “Losing them means losing a piece of what makes our towns unique.”

The Department of Education, though, maintains that schools must adhere to EU and national procurement rules when purchasing goods and services. A spokesperson stated, “Schools can seek three written quotes from suppliers of their choice for contracts under €50,000, excluding VAT.”

Balancing Schools and Local Suppliers

simon Lewis, principal of Carlow Educate Together National School, shared his outlook. While his school had a strong relationship with a local bookshop, they switched suppliers after seeking three quotes as required by the scheme. “The savings are great for parents, but there’s a negative impact on small businesses, writers, and publishers,” he said. “I wonder if we’ve done a disservice to them.”

The Association of Community and Thorough Schools, representing 97 post-primary schools, praised the scheme as a “positive development for students and families.” They highlighted a “dynamic procurement system” designed to ensure fairness. “The process is divided into competitions to give small and local suppliers a chance to participate,” the association explained.”many schools worked closely with local providers last year, and we hope this trend continues.”

The future of Independent Bookshops

As the Free Books scheme continues to expand, the future of Ireland’s independent bookshops remains uncertain. While the initiative has undeniably eased financial pressures for families, its impact on small businesses and local culture cannot be ignored. for Irene Gahan and others like her, the hope is that policymakers will find a way to balance progress with preservation, ensuring that the heart of Ireland’s communities continues to beat.

Interview with Irene Gahan: The Impact of Free schoolbooks on Independent Bookshops

In a candid interview, Irene Gahan, a passionate advocate for independent bookshops, shared her concerns about the Free Books Scheme. “While the scheme is a boon for families, it’s a bane for small bookstores,” she said. “We’re not just selling books; we’re fostering a love for reading and supporting local culture.”

Gahan emphasized the need for a balanced approach. “Policymakers must consider the long-term cultural impact of losing these community hubs,” she urged.”It’s not just about saving money; it’s about preserving the soul of our towns.”

The Impact of Ireland’s Free Books Scheme on Independent Bookstores

In September 2023, the Irish government launched a groundbreaking initiative to provide free schoolbooks for primary and special school students. This policy, later extended to Junior Cycle students in 2024 and set to include all secondary school students by 2025, has been celebrated for alleviating financial pressures on families. However, it has also ignited a contentious debate about its unintended effects, notably on independent bookstores.

To explore this issue further, we spoke with Irene Gahan, the former owner of the now-closed Academy Bookstore in Drogheda, Co Louth.Gahan, a staunch advocate for small businesses, shared her perspective on how the Free Books Scheme has transformed Ireland’s bookselling industry and what it means for the future of independent retailers.

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The Closure of a Community Pillar

Archyde: Irene, thank you for joining us. The Academy Bookstore was a cherished part of drogheda. Can you tell us about the decision to close its doors?

Irene Gahan: “Thank you for having me. It was a heartbreaking decision, one I never imagined I’d have to make. The Academy Bookstore had been a part of the community for over 30 years. But when the Free Books Scheme was introduced, we saw an immediate and dramatic drop in sales. Schoolbooks and related items—stationery, children’s books—accounted for nearly half of our business.Parents stopped coming in during the summer months, and the foot traffic we relied on just disappeared.”

The Domino Effect on Small Businesses

Archyde: that must have been devastating. How did this policy specifically affect your business?

irene Gahan: “It was like a domino effect. Without the schoolbook sales, we lost the opportunity to sell other items. Parents would come in for schoolbooks and leave with a novel or a gift for their child. That’s gone now. the scheme has also favored larger suppliers who can offer bulk discounts, leaving smaller retailers like us unable to compete. It’s not just about the books—it’s about the community connections, the personal service, and the relationships we built with families over the years.”

The Role of Small Businesses in Ireland’s Identity

Archyde: You’ve spoken about the importance of small businesses to Ireland’s identity.Can you elaborate on that?

Irene Gahan: “Absolutely. Ireland has always been a nation of small businesses—the butcher, the baker, the bookshop. These are the places that give our towns and villages their character. When you lose them,you’re left with big brands and chain stores. You lose the sense of community, the personal touch, and the unique identity that makes each place special. Independent bookshops aren’t just retail spaces; they’re cultural hubs, places where people gather, share ideas, and discover new stories.”

Supporting independent Retailers in a Changing Market

Archyde: bookselling Ireland reported that ten bookshops closed in 2024, with only one new store opening. What do you think needs to change to support independent retailers?

Irene gahan: “The Free Books Scheme is a great idea in principle, but its implementation needs to be reconsidered.There has to be a way to support families without sidelining small businesses. Perhaps the government could work with independent retailers to ensure they’re included in the supply chain or provide grants to help them adapt to the changing market. we also need to create a more balanced system that values the role of small businesses in our communities.”

Looking Ahead: A Call for Collaboration

As Ireland continues to navigate the challenges of balancing public policy with the needs of small businesses, the conversation around the Free Books Scheme remains critical. While the initiative has undoubtedly benefited many families, its impact on independent retailers like the Academy Bookstore highlights the need for a more inclusive approach.By fostering collaboration between the government and small businesses, Ireland can preserve its rich cultural heritage and ensure that local communities continue to thrive.

The power of Shopping Locally: A Story of Community and Resilience

Every euro spent at a small business doesn’t just buy a product—it fuels the heartbeat of a community. It supports jobs, sustains livelihoods, and keeps the local economy thriving. This is the message Irene Gahan, a passionate advocate for independent businesses, wants to share with the world.

Balancing Support for Families and small Businesses

In Ireland,the Free Books Scheme has been a lifeline for many families,easing the financial strain of purchasing schoolbooks. However, it has also cast a spotlight on the challenges faced by independent bookshops. Irene Gahan, a staunch supporter of local businesses, acknowledges the relief the scheme brings to parents but urges them to consider the broader impact.

“I understand the relief parents feel—schoolbooks can be a notable expense. But I’d ask them to consider the bigger picture. supporting local businesses isn’t just about buying books; it’s about preserving the heart and soul of our communities. If you can, shop locally for stationery, gifts, or even a cup of coffee. Every little bit helps,” says Gahan.

Her words resonate deeply, especially in a time when small businesses are navigating an increasingly competitive landscape. The Free Books Scheme, while beneficial for families, has inadvertently highlighted the fragility of Ireland’s independent bookshops. The challenge now lies in finding a balance—one that supports both families and the small businesses that form the backbone of local communities.

What’s Next for Irene Gahan?

For Gahan, the fight for small businesses is far from over. She is actively collaborating with bookselling Ireland and other organizations to advocate for policies that bolster independent retailers. Her mission goes beyond selling books; it’s about fostering connections, nurturing a love for reading, and ensuring communities remain vibrant and resilient.

“I’m not ready to give up on the fight for small businesses. I’m working with Bookselling Ireland and other organizations to advocate for policies that support independent retailers. I also hope to inspire others to see the value in what we do. It’s not just about selling books—it’s about building connections, fostering a love of reading, and keeping our communities vibrant,” she explains.

A Call to Action

Gahan’s story is a reminder of the delicate balance between supporting families and preserving the cultural and economic fabric of local communities. While initiatives like the Free Books Scheme are essential, they must be complemented by efforts to sustain small businesses. By shopping locally, even for small purchases, individuals can make a significant difference.

As Ireland’s bookselling landscape continues to evolve, the need for thoughtful, community-focused solutions has never been greater. The journey ahead is about collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to keeping the spirit of local businesses alive.

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For more insights into Ireland’s dynamic bookselling industry, stay tuned for updates and stories that matter.

Ants to share with the world. Her story is one of resilience, community, and the enduring power of shopping locally.

The Heartbeat of a Community

For over three decades, Irene Gahan’s Academy Bookstore was more than just a place to buy books—it was a cornerstone of Drogheda’s community. “We weren’t just selling books; we were building relationships,” she recalls. “Parents would come in with their children, and over the years, I watched those children grow up, start families of their own, and bring their kids to the store. It was a cycle of connection and trust.”

But when the Free Books Scheme was introduced, that cycle was disrupted. “The foot traffic we relied on disappeared almost overnight,” Gahan explains. “Parents no longer needed to come in for schoolbooks,and with that,we lost the opportunity to introduce them to new authors,recommend gifts,or simply chat about what their kids were reading. It was a loss not just for us, but for the entire community.”

The Ripple Effect of Shopping Locally

Gahan emphasizes that the impact of shopping locally goes far beyond the walls of a single store. “When you spend money at a small business, that money stays in the community,” she says. “It pays the wages of local employees, supports other local suppliers, and helps fund community events and initiatives. it’s a ripple effect that strengthens the entire town.”

She points to the closure of the Academy Bookstore as an example of what happens when that ripple effect is disrupted. “When we closed, it wasn’t just our staff who were affected. The local printers we worked with,the authors we promoted,the schools we partnered with—they all felt the loss. It’s a reminder of how interconnected we are and how crucial it is indeed to support one another.”

A call to Action: Why Local Matters

Gahan’s message is clear: shopping locally is about more than convenience or cost—it’s about preserving the soul of a community. “Big chains and online retailers might offer lower prices, but they can’t replace the personal touch, the sense of belonging, and the cultural richness that small businesses bring to a town,” she says. “When you shop locally, you’re investing in the future of your community.”

She urges policymakers and consumers alike to consider the long-term impact of their choices. “We need to find a balance between progress and preservation,” Gahan argues. “Policies like the Free Books Scheme are important, but they must be designed in a way that doesn’t undermine the very fabric of our communities.And as consumers, we have the power to make a difference every time we choose where to spend our money.”

Looking to the Future

Despite the challenges, Gahan remains hopeful. “I’ve seen firsthand the resilience and determination of small business owners,” she says. “We’re fighters, and we’re passionate about what we do. But we can’t do it alone. We need the support of our communities,our policymakers,and our customers to keep the spirit of local business alive.”

As Ireland continues to evolve, Gahan’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of shopping locally. It’s a call to action for everyone to recognize the value of small businesses and to take steps to ensure that they remain a vibrant part of our towns and cities for generations to come.