Welcome to the Writers Centre
A home for writers, readers & book-lovers in Trinidad & Tobago
Discover The Writers Centre – a creative hub in St. Clair, Port of Spain. Home to the Bocas Lit Fest, Paper Based Bookshop, and Sleepy Cat Cafe.
a welcoming space for creativity
Trinidad’s literary home
The Writers Centre is a welcoming space for creativity, conversation, and community. As the headquarters of the Bocas Lit Fest, the Centre plays a vital role in nurturing literary culture in Trinidad and Tobago and across the Caribbean. It’s more than a venue — it’s a destination for book-lovers, aspiring writers, and creative minds alike.
Book Launches
Celebrate new Caribbean voices at our regular book launches. Connect with authors, discover fresh reads, and be part of the literary conversation.
The Cafe
Find your perfect writing spot at Sleepy Cat Cafe. Enjoy specialty teas, coffee, and fresh snacks in a cosy, book-filled setting designed for comfort and creativity.
The Bookshop
Browse the best in Caribbean literature at Paper Based. A welcoming space filled with fiction, poetry, and non-fiction treasures waiting to be discovered.
Book Clubs
Be part of the Sleepy Cat Book Club — a growing community of nearly 200 readers. Share thoughts, discover new titles, and connect over stories that spark conversation.
Visit The Writers Centre
Visit a welcoming space for reading, writing, and relaxing in the heart of Port of Spain
Located at 14 Alcazar Street, St. Clair, The Writers Centre invites visitors to step into a world of stories, ideas, and inspiration. Whether you’re here to browse Caribbean literature at the independent Paper Based Bookshop, enjoy a handcrafted drink at the cosy Sleepy Cat Cafe, or take part in a literary event, workshop, or book club, there’s always something happening. Come for the books, stay for the community — all under one creative roof.
Paper Based Bookshop
Paper Based is the country’s only independent bookshop dedicated entirely to Caribbean books and authors. Now proudly located at The Writers Centre, the shop offers a curated collection of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s books, art, cookery, nature writing and more — all by regional voices.
Drop in from Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm to browse or connect with the literary community.
Sleepy Cat Cafe
Bringing a new flavour to the literary experience, Sleepy Cat Cafe is a book lover’s retreat offering specialty teas, rich coffee, and locally sourced pastries, wraps and snacks. In collaboration with The (Hungry) Plant Lady, the cafe also offers a grab-and-go section for those on the move, plus a cosy nook for those who wish to linger.
Enjoy the cafe’s signature Friday soup special, or take part in lively book discussions hosted by the Sleepy Cat Book Club — now with nearly 200 active members.
Host an event at The Writers Centre
The Writers Centre is available to book for literary events, meetings, workshops, and small private functions. The space offers a unique setting in the heart of Port of Spain, surrounded by books, creativity, and Caribbean charm.
Enquiries can include:
- Proposed date and time
- Type of event
- Number of attendees
- Catering requirements (via Sleepy Cat Cafe)
- Technical or space needs