A renowned Canadian literary publisher is currently based in a renovated garage located in the backyard of Keagan Hawthorne in Tantramar, New Brunswick. Hawthorne, the new owner of Gaspereau Press, is transitioning the boutique publishing company from its former home in Kentville, Nova Scotia, to Sackville. The company, known for its handcrafted approach to printing and binding books, has gained a reputation for its personalized care towards authors and their works.
Despite facing challenges in the past due to unexpected success, such as when a novel published by Gaspereau Press won a prestigious award, the company remains committed to its core values of staying small and supporting local talent. Hawthorne, a poet himself, likens the process of creating books at Gaspereau Press to the craftsmanship of furniture making, emphasizing the importance of quality in literature.
Sackville, a town with a rich academic and cultural history, is seen as an ideal location for Gaspereau Press to thrive. Hawthorne believes the affordability of living in the area allows artists to take creative risks without the financial pressures of larger urban centers. As Gaspereau Press looks towards the future, plans are underway to move operations to a local warehouse while maintaining the handmade touch that sets their publications apart. Regardless of any changes, the company remains dedicated to personally handling every book that leaves their workshop.