From Hansard to the Internet
Outside St Mary Coslany is a plaque commemorating the site of the baptism of Luke Hansard and stating that whilst in Norwich he “…served an apprenticeship as a printer ..went to London in 1771 and printed journals of the House of Commons”
In view of this Keith Razey, who sublets the building, considers it is fitting that today the church houses a publishing business & an internet bookseller.
Previously the church has been used to sell antiques, but in 2001 Curran Publishing moved its business here. MD Susan Curran enjoys the ambience of working in the church and welcomes the “affordability” of the premises. This does, however, need to be set off against the difficulties of winter heating. Although, during the summer it stays cool!
Although Keith, similarly finds keeping warm a “challenge”, the church temperature is perfect for storing his books, the majority of which he bought from the Scientific Anglian (St Benedicts Street) when it closed. With many similar internet businesses based in warehouses Keith welcomes being situated in a building with character, although he admits that he does sometimes “go out to get warm.” As Keith only sells through the internet (i.e no retail sales) the temperature of the building isn’t important. Anyone interested in buying books can do so through
www.abebooks.co.uk
The church can be visited by arrangement, however, it is open on Heritage Open Days. Approximately 250 people visit the church annually.