19/09/2023
Hey Salaams to Human of ATG
Cayleigh Bright & πβοΈ
Who are you, what do you do, and why did you start ?
Iβm a writer and the co-founder of : a writing studio working with language in all its forms. I run write and Letterhead almost exclusively from coffee shops, and while thinking about how I could bring the businessβs concept of βThe One-Stop Words Shopβ to life, I realised that little free libraries in public and semi-public places would be a win-win for all involved. With our shelves, visitors can take a book and leave a book β or take a book and pay what they can, when they can, via SnapScan, Zapper and Yoco. Weβve experimented successfully with pop-ups at festivals like , and , and Letterhead supports to raise awareness of their vital initiative to save Lovedale Press.
What do you love about books and your project?
Books hold different value for different people β education, creating empathy, and healthy βescapismβ or relaxation β and I feel strongly that these benefits should be universally accessible. Public libraries are invaluable, and with FAIR I want us to play our small role in expanding library use. Our shelves also give people a way to "practise" sharing surplus items: weβre socialised to believe that there's nothing for free, so it can feel uncomfortable lifting books off of shelves without paying for them. But why not give away what you no longer need, for others to enjoy?
What's your latest project that's getting you excited, and that you can't wait to have out in the world?
I've recently edited a childrenβs book: something new for me! Itβs going to be very exciting to see it out in the world.
If you had to describe ATG to a friend staying abroad ?
The ideal place to plan and start your explorations of my favourite city, with a unique view of its streets and people, great coffee, and Cape Town's famous koesisters.
If you could have a coffee with anyone ?
My mom! She's working overseas this year, and it's the longest we've been apart. She shares my love for trying new coffee shops and seeing creativity at work.