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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Off the Shelf

Photos from Off the Shelf 2022

Autumn in Sheffield is pretty much synonymous with literary delights, as Off the Shelf festival of books, words and ideas returns to the city. The festival hosts a programme packed with talks and readings from world renowned authors and poets, famous folk off the telly, and a few knowledgable locals.

Each year, the festival absorbs audiences in topics ranging from pop music to politics, fine art to feminism.

Come back soon for dates and our highlights among the writer talks, workshops and events in the 2026 programme.

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Désirée Reynolds

The writer – and DJ, journalist and mentor – talks to Annalisa Toccara about being inspired by ordinariness, making space for change, and curating the Black Women Write Now strand at Off the Shelf Festival 2020.

And Other Stories

An indie publishing house, boldly trying to transform the world of books.

Yusuf Yellow

A lyricist reflecting on authenticity, masculinity, existential angst and the power of creativity, especially as expressed through rap.

Rhyme and Reason

For over two decades this colourful, charming shop has specialised in books for children. In recent years it’s expanded into a place where adults too can treat themselves to a new read.