Sheffield Space Centre opened its doors in 1978, around the time Star Wars fever first took over the world. It’s been at the centre of the city’s science fiction universe ever since.
Assistant manager Colin has worked here for over three decades and been a customer since the beginning. For him, what makes independent bookshops unique is that they provide choice. “Tell me where else you’d find all these racks filled with science fiction and fantasy literature.” The racks are indeed bursting with superhero classics, Japanese manga legends and series by the likes of Douglas Adams and Juno Dawson. “We cater for everybody – from 8 to 80. Not only that, but you’ve got staff here with a century’s worth of knowledge.”
The shop survived flooding in 2007 and lockdowns in 2020–21. Long may the force be with them.
- Words by
- Amelia and Carly
- Featured in
- Bookshop Tour of Sheffield
