P M S Bookshop Ltd

Good choice of books helpful staff

Pls make it clear it’s polish books

If you look Polish or White European, the librarian greets you warmly. If you're not, be prepared to be judged and questioned why you're there.

I walked in and the librarian instantly told me that only Polish books are sold there (which isn't even true, they have Ukrainian too). I told her that I already knew that (I had been in the bookshop a few times before, since 2018).

After I had a look around, she was questioning me whether I really wanted the book I was buying. I didn't see the need for her to ask me that just because I'm not Polish. And when I asked for the price, she said it in Polish instead of English. I think she was trying to see if I understood or not (I did, but it was unnecessary for her to try and patronise me).

I don't understand why she was so miffy with me. Shouldn't she be delighted that non-Polish people take an interest in Polish literature/culture? After all, we are not in Poland, this is England. It's situated in a Polish community centre, which means people who are interested in Poland and its culture will be around. I've been learning Polish for over 5 years now, I even attended classes and immersed myself in the language through music, TV shows, films and have been to WOŚP events. I even have loyalty cards for branded Polish shops such as Mleczko and Delight Wędlinka.

I have a large collection of Polish books at home even, she'd probably be surprised that I have my own 'księgarnia' at home ;)