Lipsticks and Library Books

The Story of Boots Booklovers Library

This is the story of Boots' libraries, situated within the chemist's shops, set within the context of life in Britain during the first half of the 20th century. It is a unique social history of working life at the time, especially the "paternalistic" employer, the approach to books and censorship and the reliance on circulating libraries by the expanding middle class. Former staff share memories of Class A subscribers lording it over humble category B subscribers who - albeit resentfully - knew their place.

The subscribers were predominantly women - married, middle class, and middle aged. Elite class A customers paid a hefty subscription in return for personal attention and the pick of the new books. Class A and Class B customers were segregated, using different counters. The staff were mainly working class girls, recommended by their schools and encouraged to think of themselves as a cut above ordinary sales staff.

It was rumored that working in Boots library enhanced a girl's chances of making a good marriage. Librarians in charge were always spinsters and often strict.

©2016, 2019 Jackie Winter (P)2020 Jackie Winter