Workers' Film Association Bookshop
The Workers' Film Association (WFA) was established in early 1975 by a group of like-minded individuals in North London. United by their shared interest in Buddhism and progressive Left politics, the members of this independent collective aimed to engage in community and workplace activities. They supported a range of community organisations and struggles, including the Indian Workers Association, the Grunwick strikers, and the Eritrean Relief Association.
A key development for the WFA was the establishment of the WFA Media & Cultural Centre at 9 Lucy Street, located on the borders of Hulme, Old Trafford, and Moss Side. This centre became the hub for their cultural programmes, film and video distribution, and various training courses. It housed a library and bookshop.
The WFA's dedication to education and activism was reflected in their extensive stock of 3,000 titles including on Black, Third World, and working-class struggles, women's issues and political theory. Over the years, they provided crucial support and training in film and media, operating in close association with the ACTT (now BECTU) and offering City & Guilds qualifications.
After 42 years of operation, the WFA formally closed down as a ‘Society for the Benefit of the Community,’ and materials from the WFA library were donated to MayDay Rooms.
Sources:
Radical Bookshops Listing, Radical Bookshop History Project (November 2023) [Available online here, accessed 16.7.2025]
Workers Film Association, MayDay Rooms website [https://maydayrooms.org/archive_item/workers-film-association/, accessed 16.07.2025]
The Radical Bookseller, Issue 75, 1991
