Our story

Built for readers, guided by practical experience.

ghostly-archaic began as a small team of librarians, editors, and programme leads who wanted to make reading support feel human, not transactional.

Studio-led

We remain a small studio so every client speaks with a specialist.

Company story

Our team has worked in public libraries, school programmes, and cultural organisations across the UK. We saw a gap: organisations wanted reading programmes, but needed help with curation, facilitation, and long-term engagement. ghostly-archaic was founded to fill that gap with a thoughtful, tailored approach.

What makes us different

Every programme is built around real reader feedback.
We prioritise accessible formats and practical facilitation notes.
We stay hands-on through launch, delivery, and review.

Leadership

Our leadership team blends editorial expertise with experience in learning design.

Maya K.

Studio director with a background in library services and cultural programme design.

Owen L.

Reading programme strategist specialising in workplace learning and facilitation.

Imani R.

Editorial lead focused on inclusive collections and supporting emerging voices.

Company philosophy

We believe in slow reading and meaningful discussion. A strong programme does not ask people to rush; it creates space for ideas to settle and for voices to be heard.

“Reading should feel like a conversation, not a deadline.”

Founding principle

Milestones

2014

First pilot reading programme with a regional arts centre.

2018

Expanded to support multi-site organisations across the UK.

2022

Launched specialist collections for leadership and wellbeing.

2025

Introduced data-light impact reporting tailored to reading culture.

Values we work by

Thoughtfulness

We ask the right questions before recommending any collection.

Responsibility

We handle sourcing and delivery with respect for local suppliers.

Clarity

We explain each recommendation in plain language.

Benefits of working with us

Time saved

We handle curation, sourcing, and facilitation preparation.

Engagement uplift

Our programmes are designed to be inclusive and sustainable.

Trusted guidance

We provide context and insight, not just book lists.

Industries served

Public libraries Universities Museums Charities Corporate learning Creative agencies

Want to know if we are a fit?

We are happy to share examples and recommend a path forward.

Speak with the team