Hundreds of bookshops face closure In his letter to council chiefs he said that bookshops have "found the going tough" for the last few years. He argued that bookshops promote literacy, build community character and "contribute to the distinct flavour" of a neighbourhood. Mr Godfray said that if town centres and market towns wish to remain "vibrant" and not become "clone towns," then shops that "promote art, literacy and entertainment" are needed. He added: "It seems incredible that three in ten children live in households that do not contain a single book. Visible access to new and exciting reading is vital. Many of the BA's suggestions echo those of Mary Portas, the television presenter, who last month unveiled an independent review into the future of the high street. Ms Portas argued that high streets across the UK have reached a "crisis point" and called on local authorities to do more to help retailers. Mr Godfray said that parking charges, business rates and high rents are "critical factors" that need to be addressed to protect the high street. The BA hopes that the most "dynamic and innovative" authorities will lead the way in supporting their high streets, said Mr Godfray. The association argued that charity shops face an unfair competitive advantage over traditional bookshops. Charity shops are exempt from corporation tax, receive relief on business rates, and do not need to pay VAT on donated goods.