by Jaylynn Korrell

The best bookstores in San Francisco are indie!

So you’re going to San Francisco…

Say hi to Joey Gladstone for sure, but then go check out their literary scene!

The indie bookstores in the area are plentiful, unique, and impressively community focused. We had such a great time visiting. If you’re looking to get bookish in the bay area, look no further than these awesome bookstores in San Francisco.

Each of the shops on this list has something special about it. From the titles they’re showcasing to the amount of books they hold and even to the cool background stories of their owners, they make us proud to be traveling book lovers.

The only way to really get to know these bookstores is to visit them. So hop to it.

Here are some of the best bookstores in San Francisco.

1. Green Apple Books

506 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118

Green Apple is one of the most beloved bookstores in San Francisco. Founded in 1967 by a 25-year-old Army vet, this shop has evolved into a San Francisco staple over the decades. It has expanded significantly from its initially 750-square-foot space to more like 5,000. That’s a lot of books!

2. City Lights Booksellers and Publishers

261 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

I have so many reasons to love City Lights! Definitely one of my favorite bookstores in San Francisco, it’s got a rich literary history and you can feel it right when you walk in. It was founded in 1953 and was a hub for readers, writers, & activists. And it still is! They’re an indie publisher too, even responsible for publishing Ginsburg’s Howl & so many amazing others. It boasts the title of being the nation’s first all-paperback bookstore too!

3. The Booksmith 

1727 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117

Co-owners Christin Evans and Praveen Madan take great pride in reimagining the role that indie bookstores play in their communities. They helped launch the most successful author event series in the area, Berkeley Arts & Letters, and their spacious location offers plenty of new and used books. Get ready to spend a good amount of time there!

4. Dog Eared Books

900 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110

You can’t walk past this corner bookstores without being tempted to step inside. Its turquoise exterior and welcoming window display will have you walking in before you even know it.

Dog Eared Books is jam-packed with shelves of used and new books, and they specialize in off-beat, small press, and local literature. Music to our ears!

Not sure what to get? See if they have any of these impressive indie books!

5. Folio Books

3957 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94114

Founded in 2013, Folio Books is a popular queer- and women-owned indie bookstore in the Noe Valley of San Francisco. Not only will you find a wide variety of new books, Folio also has an impressive selection of stationery, puzzles, and games to browse through.

6. Black Bird Bookstore

4541 Irving St. San Francisco, CA 94122 

Look forward to a meticulously curated selection of great books at Black Bird Books in San Francisco. With an aim to “reflect the diversity of experiences and interests of our community” and “broaden perspectives, deepen ideas, and bridge new connections,” Black Bird Books will draw you in with their display and then hold you in place with the thoughtfulness of their inventory. They have coffee too!

Running out of space in your bookshelf? (First, same). Second, check out these small bookshelf ideas!

7. Omnivore Books on Food

 3885 Cesar Chavez St, San Francisco, CA 94131

Foodies rejoice! Omnivore Books caters specifically to those who love to cook (and eat!). This culinary-focused bookstore is your one-stop shop to making some of the best meals of your life.

In addition to featuring books that will make your mouth water, you can also look forward to some cool author readings, signings, and other awesome events.

8. Borderland Books

1740 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117

If you’re in the market for Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery, and Horror books in San Francisco, you go to Borderlands Books. These are the only books they sell which makes this specialty shop the place to go for genre lovers.

9. Fabulosa Books

489 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114

Fabulosa is an LGBTQ bookstore with a wide variety of titles to choose from, on all sorts of topics. Visitors will appreciate their colorful display of titles and the homey feel of their shop.

10. Christopher’s Books

1400 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94107

Christopher’s Books is the exact kind of community-focused bookstore that you’d hope to find in a new city. For over 30 years in their community, they have been a welcoming space sitting right on the corner in a classic San Francisco structure. I think you’re going to love it here.

11. Bird & Beckett Books and Records

653 Chenery St, San Francisco, CA 94131

We love when books and music combine! Named after famous writer Samuel Beckett and jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker, this space exudes love and respect for these monumental artists.

You can find a wide variety of books and music, while also enjoying a bit of entertainment. Bird and Beckett Books and Records schedules over 300 music and literary events per year, giving you a pretty great chance of catching a show or reading if you’re in the area.

Well, there you have it! Those are some of the best bookstores in San Francisco. Are there others? Most Definitely! Let me know which ones I missed in the comments.

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell writes here and for GoodGiftLists.com.

Thank you for reading “11 of the Best Bookstores in San Francisco ” by Jaylynn Korrell! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

The post 11 of The Best Bookstores in San Francisco appeared first on Independent Book Review.

by Elizabeth Zender

Calling all Midwestern bookworms: These bookstores in Minneapolis & St. Paul are a dream!

Bookstores can be found just about anywhere in the Twin Cities. Shopping local is a big part of the culture here, and the indie booksellers in the area are doing something really special with the bookish community.

To local and traveling book lovers alike, make sure you drop in and experience that Minnesota Nice atmosphere that everyone’s been telling you about. You can’t go wrong with any of these bookshops. Fun atmosphere, yes, but don’t forget–you might just get a book out of it!

Here are some of the best bookstores in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

1. Magers & Quinn Booksellers 

3038 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408

If you’re heading to the Twin Cities, you have to stop into Magers & Quinn.

It has been in business for over 25 years and is a major part of the Uptown community. It’s the first bookstore I went to when I first moved to the Twin Cities 10 years ago, and I was so happy to arrive.

Take a step in through the front door and you’ll find shelves upon tables upon shelves. It is wall-to-wall books. You can find anything you’d want there: current, rare, and incredible books.

2. Moon Palace Books

3032 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406

This gem expanded its walls in the last few years, creating space for a cafe, music, and, of course, more books.

At Moon Palace Books, you’ll find what you’re looking for and stumble upon a few surprises, like the wide variety of books and zines by local authors. This store prioritizes a sense of comfort; all are welcome in this space and the staff is the best. 

It’s cute on the outside (see above!) and full of good vibes on the inside. Whether you live here or you’re just visiting, Moon Palace is a must-see.

3. Wild Rumpus Books

2720 W 43rd St., Minneapolis, MN 55410

If you need a children’s book, you’ll find it at Wild Rumpus. You’ll probably be greeted by a shop cat sleeping in the window, and, as you wind your way toward the back, you’ll find a few birds and creepy crawlers too. 

I’ve never seen a more expansive collection of children’s books than at Wild Rumpus. You have old favorites by Kevin Henkes and Mercer Mayer next to new favorites by Gracey Zhang and Daniel Haack. If you need to entertain young readers, you’ll want to drop by.

Want to take a literary road trip? Check out our list of Bookstores in Ann Arbor or Bookstores in NYC.

4. Black Garnet Books

1319 University Ave W, St. Paul, MN 55104

Where should you go to first in St. Paul? My vote is Black Garnet Books!

Dionne Sims created this beautiful little space to bring creators of color to the front. Black-owned and operated, this space is brand new; it went from a small pop-up circa 2020 to a storefront earlier this year. You’ll have books, merch, and good vibes coming out of this one!

5. The Irreverent Bookworm

5163 Bloomington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417

This queer and woman-owned bookstore in Minneapolis might be on the small side, but the interior is immaculate. It’s cozy, it’s whimsical, and it’s beyond welcoming.

Do you want a used book? You can find it here. Do you need to try a book before you buy it? You can do that here. Do you want to bring your dog with you to smell that good book smell? You can bring them here. Find what you need within the nooks and crannies of the Irreverent Bookworm.

6. Once Upon a Crime

604 W 26th St, Minneapolis, MN 55405

When you’re walking the streets of the Whittier neighborhood, you might just miss this shop if you’re not looking for it.

Down a few steps to the front door, you’re suddenly in a world of suspense. If you need a good mystery-thriller, this basement bookstore’s got you covered. They love the genre so much, they don’t stock anything else. If you too love surprises, solving crimes, and the unknown, you have to take a look at Once Upon A Crime.

7. Next Chapter Booksellers

38 Snelling Ave S, St. Paul, MN 55105

If you want to take a scenic walk through the Macalester College campus, you’ll want to stop into Next Chapter.

You’ll find new books by new authors and a wide variety of staff recommendations. Anytime I’ve struggled to find something at a chain bookstore, I’ve found it here.

Those are some of the absolute best bookstores in Minneapolis & St. Paul. Did I miss any? Let me know!

About the Author

Elizabeth Zender spends most of her days begging high school students to exchange their phones for a book. In her free time, she can be found baking or playing video games with a cat in her lap.

Thank you for reading “7 Indie Bookstores in Minneapolis & St. Paul” by Elizabeth Zender! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

The post 7 of the Best Indie Bookstores in Minneapolis & St. Paul appeared first on Independent Book Review.

by Jaylynn Korrell

It’s time to check out some of the best bookstores in NYC.

New York City is one of the most literary cities in the world. Some of the greatest writers of all time have spent some, if not all, of their lives living in this buzzing metropolis. And that’s not to mention all of the publishers who make their home here.

If you haven’t visited for the literary wonder yet, I think it’s time you go see what all the fuss is about.

As you’ll see, the best bookstores in NYC might also be some of the best bookstores in the country. They’re on neighborhood corners and on the busiest city streets. They’re diverse in both book offerings and in ownership. And some have been claiming their block since before you were born.

If you’re a book lover roaming the streets of the Big Apple, we’re here to give you some direction. These 15 bookstores in NYC will easily fill your day and probably have you emptying your pockets. I warned you!

Here are some of the best bookstores in NYC.

1. Books Are Magic 

225 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

What’s better than a bookstore owned by an author? If anybody understands the amazing things a bookstore can offer a community, it’s someone who is writing the books. I quickly fell in love with this amazing space, and I’m sure you will too.

The wonderful bookstore known as Books are Magic is owned by Emma Straub, the author of great fiction like Modern Lovers and The Vacationers. She and her husband, who also live in the area, created a literary slice of heaven with Books are Magic. Aside from being chock-full of awesome reads, the store is also spacious, has a ton of cool author events, and also has a really awesome mural outside for all you #bookstagrammers out there.

And if you have kids, you’re in for a treat. They also have an amazing children’s book section, making it the perfect spot to visit with the whole family. I thought the space was amazing before I had a baby, but now that I do I’m even more excited to get back there.

*Bonus! On your way to the bottom floor there is a poetry gum-ball machine, where you put in a quarter and get a cute little poem. How sweet!

2. Strand Book Store

828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Strand is one of the most popular bookstores in NYC. It was started in 1927 in an area that used to be called “Book Row” and was one of the forty-eight bookstores on the six city block row.

This impressive bookstore is family-owned and has been since its inception. The Bass family runs this shop in its current space, just a few blocks from the original location, and carries over 2.5 million used, new, and rare books. 

3. Argosy Book Store 

116 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022

Another longstanding bookstore in NYC is Argosy Book Store. Founded in 1925 this family owned bookshop features out-of-print items as well as an enormous stock of antiquarian books to look through. Walking into this shop feels like walking into the most interesting section of an old library, with each book holding a unique history that’s just waiting to be uncovered. If you’re a lover of old books, you can’t go to NYC without stopping here. 

Some of the best bookstores in NYC are found in Brooklyn. Check out our list of Brooklyn bookstores if you’re planning on staying in the area.

4. Albertine Books

972 5th Ave, New York, NY 10075

 Albertine Books is the kind of bookstore that really makes an impression. Maybe its due to their drop-dead gorgeous ceiling mural of constellations, stars, and planets. Or maybe its because they’re the only bookstore in New York City devoted solely to books in French and English. With over 14,000 contemporary and classic titles from 30 French-speaking countries, those who understand the language will be in literary heaven. 

Fun Fact: The French books at Albertine comply with a French law that states that book prices cannot be reduced more than 5%. The law was created to protect publishers and booksellers in France and nourish its “biblio-diversity.” Pretty cool if you ask me.

5. Mcnally Jackson Books

76 N 4th St Unit G, Brooklyn, NY 11249

This bookstore features a great selection of used books and new titles available. Their selection varies because so many books are bought from the community, so it could make for a really fun bookstore discovery day. I loved standing up on the second floor and looking over the big bookish space, and I think you would too.

When browsing the shelves, we found tons of cool titles, old and new. There were also plenty of books by indie presses and even some that were signed by local authors, which I really enjoyed browsing.

6. Astoria Bookshop

 31-29 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106

If you’re in the Astoria area, you’ll have to make a pit stop at the Astoria Bookshop. This queer woman-owned bookstore is filled with all of the general interest books you’ve been dreaming of.

To even further add to their likability, this shop holds a variety of literary events that are sure to bring a crowd. They do events like “The Storytelling Show” where people can put their name in a hat and have the chance to be chosen to tell a five minute, no-theme story to room full of total strangers.

7. Greenlight Bookstore

686 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217 / 632 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 

Greenlight Bookstore is a shop that will grab your attention from the street and beckon you to open their doors. Inside, all of your literary dreams may come true. Co-founded by two women with a history in the publishing world, Greenlight combines their expertise to create the ultimate indie bookstore experience.

Their window display truly will inspire you to not just read but to explore outside of your genre as they make each book look so inviting. We rightfully stan the indie bookstores that put this type of work into their curation, as will you when you stop by either of the Greenlight Bookstore in Brooklyn. When we went, there was even a table dedicated specifically to indie presses!

8. The Corner Bookstore

1313 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10128

One of Carnegie Hill’s most beloved bookstores is the Corner Bookstore. This spot has been impacting local readers since 1978. They carefully select the best of the best current titles to display and sell, and they feature an impressive kids section that satisfies the family friendly area and their residents.

9. Rizzoli Bookstore

1133 Broadway, New York, NY 10010 

Don’t be surprised if your jaw drops as you enter Rizzoli Bookstore. It’s a beaut to say the least. For over 50 years they’ve been considered one of the foremost independent booksellers in America, featuring illustrated books on architecture, interior design, fashion, photography, cookery, literature, and more.

10. Spoonbill and Sugartown

218 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

218 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Walking into this bookstore felt like taking a step back in time. This is probably lame to say, but this seems like the kind of store you’d find Ginsburg and Kerouac in. Though it wasn’t around during their time, Spoonbill and Sugartown just gives off a beatnik hipster vibe, but in the best way. With a collection of poetry, literary criticism, and classics prominently displayed, we felt that it offered a really well-defined mood that we could get behind.

Spoonbill & Sugartown features a mix of used, rare, and brand new books. They handpick their selection with care, as they know their audience well. I have a feeling you’ll be drawn to pick up something that you may not have expected.

11. Housing Works

126 Crosby St, New York, NY

Housing Works is more than just a bookstore. It’s a non-profit that was established to fight both AIDS and homelessness in NYC. Their bookstore is just a branch of their business and helps to fund the cause through selling books.

For over 10 years, Housing Works has been a popular bookstore in NYC with every book in their stock coming from donation. With a staff made up almost entirely of volunteers, this shop is able to put 100% of their proceeds back into Housing Works and the lifesaving services they offer to the public.

12. Three Lives & Co

154 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014

Few bookstores look as homey on the outside as they feel on the inside, but Three Lives & Co manages to do just that. Sitting snugly on a corner in Greenwhich village, this bookstore has a little bit of everything: fiction, nonfiction, paperbacks, hardcovers, you name it. It’s also conveniently located a few blocks from Carrie Bradshaw’s fictional apartment, so you can stop by on the way if you’re into that kind of thing.

Well, there you have it! Those are some of the best bookstores in NYC. Are there others? Of course there are! Let me know which ones I missed in the comments.

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell writes here and for GoodGiftLists.com.

Thank you for reading “12 of the Best Independent Bookstores in NYC” by Jaylynn Korrell! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

The post 12 of The Best Independent Bookstores in NYC appeared first on Independent Book Review.

by Jaylynn Korrell

Whether you’re just visiting or you live down the block, don’t miss these indie bookstores in Boston.

There is a lot to see and do in Boston, especially if you love to read. Boston might be one of the most bookish cities in the country and an excellent place for book lovers to visit while on the east coast.

Bookstores in Boston can be found on some of the most historic streets in the heart of downtown or snug and cozy in one of its surrounding neighborhoods. You’ll find Black-owned bookstores, women-owned bookstores, and some shops that have been around for over 100 years.

Here are some of the best indie bookstores in Boston.

1. Brattle Book Shop 

9 West St, Boston, MA 02111

You CANNOT go to Boston without visiting one of America’s oldest and largest used book shops.

Brattle Book Shop is a staple in Boston and for good reason. Sitting right in the heart of downtown, Brattle is a three-story building that carries over 250,000 books, maps, prints, and postcards. You can go here to hunt for used books, out-of-print books, and sought-after first editions and collectibles. Peep this IG post for a look at their outdoor section & mural from when Joe and I visited.

2. Commonwealth Books

Downtown Crossing – 9 Spring Lane Boston, MA 02109

Tucked conveniently away off of a main street in downtown you can find Commonwealth Books. There are over 40,000 titles ranging from used books to medieval manuscripts. With a focus on books on subjects like poetry, decorative arts, history, and literature, it won’t be hard to find something worth your while in this cozy Boston bookstore. 

3. Harvard Bookstore 

Harvard Book Store 1256 Mass Ave

If you’re in the Harvard area, you’ll have to take a break from peeking in on lectures and taking in the architecture to check out Harvard Book Store. This locally owned and independently run bookstore has been a landmark in Cambridge since 1932. Its gorgeous design will easily draw you in from the street, but it’s the books that’ll keep you there.

Don’t worry, they’re not just selling textbooks at this spot. With thoughtful curation and thousands of titles filling their shelves, you shouldn’t be surprised if you find yourself spending an hour or so browsing around. You can also fill your time by attending one of their numerous author events that feature some of the most notable authors in the world. 

4. More Than Words Warehouse Bookstore

242 E Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02118

This non-profit bookselling businesses doesn’t just sell books, they also fund youth development programs. All of the proceeds from this amazing place go to job training and youth development programs. It’s also run by local youth!

So if you’re looking to buy books and support an amazing cause at the same time More Than Words Warehouse Bookstore is the place to go. 

5. Papercuts J.P

60 South St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

If you’re in or around the Jamaica Plain neighborhood in Boston, then you’ll HAVE to visit Papercuts Bookshop. This award-winning, woman-owned independent has been open since 2014, and it was created by a woman who worked at Little, Brown for a decade before.

They’ve hosted some of the most notable names in the literary world for their readings, and they currently run a house imprint called CUTLASS PRESS where they publish books and anthologies. They also have a pretty amazing gift section where you could find some great literary gifts!

6. Frugal Bookstore 

57 Warren St, Roxbury, MA 02119

Frugal bookstore is the only Black-owned bookstore in Boston. This community bookstore is located in Roxbury and is driven by their passion to promote literacy with children, teens, and adults in the area. They feature new books only, so don’t be surprised to see some of the latest and greatest books on the market on their shelves. 

7. Trident Booksellers & Cafe

338 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02115

Located on one of the busiest and best shopping streets in Boston, trident Booksellers & Cafe is an easy stop to add to any tourist trip. It is a thriving cafe on one side and a super browsable bookshop on the other.

In other words, it’s a reader’s dream scenario. You can grab a bite to eat, pick up a book, and read it while you sip on a hot beverage.

8. Brookline Booksmith

279 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02446

Brookline is one of my favorite places in the Boston area, and the Booksmith is a big part of that.

This indie bookstore has been family-owned and locally run since 1961 and has been an amazing community space since then. Back in 1961, they opened under the name Paperback Booksmith, with a mission to get the East Coast to recognize that “serious” books could also be printed in paperback. Before that, paperbacks mostly features westerns and nurse stories.

Since then the Brookline Booksmith has become one of the first books to display books by category rather than publisher and continues to make great strides to bring great books to everyone who walks through their doors. They even host a small press book club, which you know I’m getting behind!

9. Grolier Poetry

6 Plympton St, Cambridge, MA 02138 

Poetry lovers will rejoice that such a place as Grolier Poetry exists in the Boston area. Since 1927, this poetry-focused bookshop sells modern, classic, and the latest contemporary poetry. You can find them in the heart of Cambridge right off of Harvard square and pick up some some poetry to read while you’re taking in the area.

10. I AM Books

124 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113

I AM Books is not your typical bookstore. Labeled as an Italian American cultural hub, the books you’ll find here are predominantly fiction and nonfiction by Italian and Italian Americans, books in Italian, and cookbooks and books on travel. This unique bookstore shines a light on Italian writing and should not be missed if you’re visiting bookstores in Boston. 

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell has been writing reviews and blog posts for IBR since the very beginning. She takes the photographs and manages the IBR Instagram page. In her spare time, she likes to play board games and take road trips around America. She is the founder of Good Gift Lists.

Thank you for reading “10 Must-See Indie Bookstores in Boston” by Jaylynn Korrell! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

The post 10 Must-See Bookstores in Boston appeared first on Independent Book Review.

Organized by Joe Walters

To celebrate #IndieBookstoreDay, our team here at IBR answered one impossible question: “What is your favorite indie bookstore?”

I think it’s safe to say that we are bookstore superfans over here at IBR. We’ve been writing blog posts about our favorites ever since we started this thing in April 2018, and there’s a good reason behind that.

And it’s not just that they are awesome.

The book world wouldn’t be the same without its indies. Passionate people put in their time and money to bring together the community and get people reading in ways that retail stores just can’t do. The curation is specific. The displays are unique. The atmosphere is almost a personality all on its own. We can’t do this without them.

But the only way these stores can stay around is if they get support from the people who love them. We’ve got a passionate group of readers over here on our team, and for #independentbookstoreday, we decided to collaborate and give you all an idea of which shops you can support now or in the future.

Without further ado, here is Independent Book Review’s favorite indie bookstores in the world!

Brattle Book Shop

Address: 9 West Street, Boston, MA 02111

Recommended by Joe Walters

This question is undoubtedly a mean one. And that’s coming from me, the guy who asked it.

Jaylynn and I are road-trip fanatics. And each time we go to a new place, heading to the local bookstore is usually one of the first things on our to-do list. We’ve gone to shops all across the country from the Mid-Atlantic to New England to the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest to the Southwest and all sorts of other random places. We get bored and drive a lot. Sue me. (Just kidding, please don’t).

But no shop has hit me in quite the same way that Brattle Book Shop in Boston did. The picture above is of young me (note the not-yet-gray hair) on our first New England road trip. I was 22 and had big dreams of writing and reading my way to a literary life.

So where else could I have started than devouring all the classic authors I could get my hands on?

And then I found Brattle Book Shop. It was love at first browse. I spent entirely too long strolling through the outdoor section of discounted book stacks, found myself some odd additions to my shelf like an illustrated Invisible Man by HG Wells and Ray Bradbury’s children’s book Switch on the Night. There’s a really lovely mural overlooking this outdoor section too, so while I was there, I felt immersed in bookish love.

As you might have guessed, they have books inside their shop as well. But as you might not have guessed—it’s a three-story building, and there are books on books on books waiting for you in there.

Visiting Brattle is a promise of getting lost when you’re in Boston. What else could a reader ask for?

Books Are Magic

Address: 225 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Recommended by Jaylynn Korrell

We’ve spent years exploring new bookstores, but not many have left me feeling quite as excited as I did after my visit to Books Are Magic in Brooklyn, NY. 

Located in the Cobble Hill area of Brooklyn, Books Are Magic is everything I want out of an indie bookshop. It sits on a street corner with a big bright mural on its side that’s perfect to take bookish pictures in front of. From the outside, you’d think it’s quite small, but once you enter, the place really opens up and becomes lengthy with high ceilings lined with new releases and old classics alike. It’s a colorful and fun store to explore, very kid friendly, and features a really cool gumball machine filled with poems. 

Books Are Magic takes pride in having a jam-packed event schedule, too. Tons of authors whose books are in the store have come to read during the short 4 years since the store opened on 2017. Though COVID has changed their set up a bit, they still do many virtual events through Zoom that anyone can register to attend. 

Another cool fact about this bookstore is that it’s owned by one of my favorite authors, Emma Straub. The first book I read of hers, Modern Lovers, took place in Brooklyn, and quickly made me a fan. You can find her books there, which are usually signed, if you’re looking to super-support this awesome bookstore. 

John Sandoe Books

Address: 10 Blacklands Terrace, Chelsea, London SW3 2SR

Recommended by Rosa Kumar

John Sandoe Books Ltd., sitting in its beautiful eighteenth century home and filled with over 30,000 lovingly stacked books, is a beloved cornerstone to literary London that can’t be imitated anywhere else.

John Sandoe opened its doors in 1957 and has since expanded into three adjoining shops, creating a 3-story haven for bibliophiles with books crammed everywhere there is a gap that can fit them. There are a few strategically placed chairs and stools for the browser that maybe spent a few hours too long walking from genre to genre, and the neighboring coffee shops and pubs will welcome you with your paper sachet filled with new reads after the store closes its doors anyway. 

The booksellers at John Sandoe are wonderful people; their dedication to their customers goes beyond the standard bookseller call of duty. Their unique brand of service offerings include hunting down rare books and out-of-print editions, creating custom-themed book bundles for you to gift (or keep!), maintaining public and private libraries, and sending out quarterly catalogues and mail order subscription services. 

John Sandoe is a labyrinth of affordable books despite its location in the expensive retail neighborhood of Chelsea. They host book launches, author-speaking events, and podcasts, and offer a gentle and welcome escape from the busy streets of London.

Auntie’s Bookstore

Address: 402 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201

Recommended by Joseph Haeger

I was in high school when a friend invited me to my first reading. I didn’t know anything about the author except that he was the guy who wrote Fight Club—“the book, not the movie.” We arrived in downtown Spokane and climbed the stairs to the third floor where there was only standing room left.

I stood in the back and listened to Chuck Palahniuk read his story “Guts.” This was eye opening because I didn’t realize people wrote about this kind of stuff, and I was hooked. This is the moment that put me on the road to being a reader and a writer. And none of this would’ve happened if Auntie’s Bookstore wasn’t such a driving force in our community. 

I love Auntie’s because they love books as much as I do. They’re as fun and ridiculous as every person that walks through their doors and seem always ready to make someone’s day. Case in point: they’ve let me do some goofy things for Independent Bookstore Day (like drawing terrible pictures of animals or wearing Stephen King masks and taking photos with people).

For over forty years, they’ve continually met writers and readers where they are, cultivating a one-of-a-kind bookish culture in our town. This level of care does not go unnoticed, and I can’t wait to see what the next forty years bring.

Lemuria Bookstore

Address: 4465 I-55 STE 202, Jackson, MS 39206

Recommended by Alexandria Ducksworth

Although I live and occasionally explore indie bookstores in Georgia, my top favorite bookstore is in Jackson, Mississippi. The name: Lemuria Books.

I stumbled upon Lemuria Books by accident. It all started when I researched information about a legendary continent called Lemuria, located in the Pacific Ocean. Think of it as Atlantis, but far older. Legend says a great earthquake caused the land to fall into the sea. Some Pacific Islands like Hawaii are said to be remnants of the mythical land.

That’s when Lemuria Books popped up on my search. I realized Lemuria Books was in the same city where some of my relatives lived, and now, whenever I visit them, I make sure to visit the bookstore too.

If you’ve ever been to New York City’s The Strand, Lemuria Books captures its aesthetic and feel, except smaller. It has all sorts of books nestled in its bookshelves, including those in my favorite genres like New Age and esoteric. I was even able to find a copy of T. Lobsang Rampa’s Third Eye even though it’s usually so difficult to find his books.   

Indie bookstores carry different and unique vibes from store to store. I am so thankful for this one. Lemuria is one of a kind, and I’d love to see it remain in business for decades to come.

Midtown Scholar Bookstore Cafe

Address: 1302 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102

Recommended by Nathaniel Drenner

First a movie theater, then a department store—now a bookstore. Midtown Scholar in Harrisburg, Pa. occupies a cavernous, historic building absolutely brimming with reading material. It has become a book lover’s ultimate destination.

A well-curated selection of new books greets visitors upon entering, next to a café counter. Their new selection alone would be worth the trip. But the stacks keep going. It wasn’t until my fourth or fifth visit that I truly had a sense of the labyrinthine extent of the structure. There are sections for used books of all kinds, not to mention rooms for children’s books, rare books, and art prints. My favorite spot to read or work is at a table on the walkway to the upper gallery, with a dramatic view of the floor below.

That main floor is perfect for events—originally a movie theater, after all—and the Scholar has hosted authors both nationally-known and local. Those events have moved online due to the pandemic, but they show no signs of stopping.

The physical store is closed right now, but there are sidewalk and online sales, plus the digital author events. According to the website, the building is planning on re-opening this summer, and it will be one of my first stops on the return to a more normal world.

Wilborada 1047

Address: Calle 71 #10-47, Bogotá, Colombia

Recommended by Tucker Lieberman

Books or sunshine? Always a tough choice! Fortunately, Wilborada 1047 in Bogotá, Colombia combines my two favorite things.

Yolanda Auza opened this bookstore in 2014 in a timber-framed brick house, originally built in 1943, that was remodeled by the architect Alejandro Henríquez to let in more sunlight. Hanging on the wall are portraits of famous authors sketched by Henríquez. The portrait of Gabriel García Márquez, labeled simply “Gabo,” is embellished with yellow butterflies.

Because of its street address, 10-47, the bookstore was named after Wiborada, the patron saint of booksellers. She was canonized in 1047; the bookstore chose to use a historical misspelling of her name. The store opens daily at 10:47. There’s a room with armchairs and coffee service from Café Cultor. When you’re not enjoying a cup, masks are required, at least this year.

Most books are in Spanish, including many Colombian authors like Carolina Sanín, Pilar Quintana, Héctor Abad Faciolince, Juan Gabriel Vázquez, and Laura Restrepo. There are a few German, French, and Italian books as well as English-language novels in the entryway by authors like Margaret Atwood, Ken Follett, Stephen King, George R. R. Martin, and Anne Rice. The bookstore has an online ordering system and ships within Colombia, and for those who find themselves in the area, it offers a really great book-browsing experience.

Main Street Books

Address: 307 South Main Street, St. Charles, MO 63301

Recommended by Kathy L. Brown

Book lovers flock to Main Street Books for its colonial charm and the amazing support it offers local authors—it’s truly a friendly neighbor.

St. Charles’s Main Street Books is nestled on a cobblestone street in the historic old town section, a few blocks above the Missouri River. Originally constructed in 1821, its building is typical of the area’s river town style. It was rebuilt in 1955 after a fire destroyed the interior. The façade evokes its colonial days with red brick and wrought-iron embellishments.

The shop provides two stories of books, gift items, and toys to the many tourists as well as neighborhood residents who frequent the shop. Main Street is a great place to pick up history and guide books to better enjoy the region as well as current best sellers and classics. Throughout the pandemic, Main Street Books provided fresh reading material by post and pick-up through its well-designed website and order placement interface.

The bookshop supports local and independent writers, hosting book launches and stocking their works. The St. Louis Writers Guild and other writing groups find Main Street Books a welcoming presence in the area’s literary community.

Chapters Bookstore

Address: Ivy Exchange, Parnell St, Dublin 1, D01 P8C2, Ireland

Recommended by Sinead Carey

I know something that all book lovers can agree on: Not much beats the smell of a book, old or new. That is why I must start with Chapters on Parnell Street.

Chapters, Ireland’s largest independent bookshop, is spread over two expansive floors, and the comforting aroma of books hits you immediately when you walk in.

Located on Parnell Street, a short walk from O’Connell Street, this store can satisfy all your needs from rare-edition classics to fly-off-the-shelf debuts. If you are looking for something in particular, there’s a pretty great chance they can stock it.

The best part?

The upstairs caters solely to second-hand books that are sold at discount prices, and the friendly staff is always quick to advise if you can get the book you desire upstairs at a cheaper rate.

Poisoned Pen Bookstore

Address: 4014 N Goldwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Recommended by R. Read

Being of a certain age, I may have frequented more indie bookstores than some readers are in years of age. 

And by far, the Poisoned Pen Bookstore in Scottsdale, Arizona outshines, outperforms, and eclipses all others for me, especially with their literary events and author collaborations!

Owner Barbara Peters makes it look perfectly natural to pull up a chair alongside Harlan Coben, Lee Child, Diana Gabaldon; just to name a few. Clive Cussler, a long time Arizona resident, made the Poisoned Pen a trusted source for his autographed books, and my personal favorite, Linwood Barclay of Toronto, Canada, once accepted a plate of homemade cookies from me during a reading/signing–solely because he trusts Barbara! 

Cozy in size, the store allows in-person engagements (pre- and post-COVID…they’ve done amazing at live streaming during the pandemic). Adorning walls above the stacks, the way crown molding might trim a ceiling, PPB has autographed photos of practically every famous author imaginable, along with the number of times/books they’ve presented at this location in Old Town Scottsdale’s Art District. If you love autographed first editions or imports, this shop is a must stop if you’re ever in the greater Phoenix area.

Visit their website to view past events, support indie, and get an autographed book by your favorite author–it doesn’t get any better than that in my book!

Vroman’s Bookstore

Address: 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101

Recommended by Joshua Ryan Bligh

Founded before the turn of the 20^th century, Vroman’s is undeniably a fixture in Pasadena, CA and one of the main reasons why when I spend time in the US, I invariably stay only a few blocks away from this bookstore.

Though far from sprawling, Vroman’s packs its shelves with curated care, making the most of its space to provide a selection both eclectic and complete. Neat, tidy, and tasteful, Vroman’s exudes a sleek contemporary aesthetic while maintaining the feel of a slower time, complete with curbside magazine and newsstand.

I’ve found books along Vroman’s shelves (such as Ozamu Dazai’s No Longer Human) that I couldn’t spot anywhere else, even in the three-story colossus of B&N the next city over. And when in a pinch, they’ve specially ordered hard-to-find texts (like an English translation of Yuri Goldstein’s Hedgehog in the Fog).

Vroman’s might occupy a large space, but it’s still an indie store, its size standing up as proof that readers still buy locally (and voraciously), which continues to fill me with a warm, cozy feeling as I walk home with a lighter bank account and the weight of a half-dozen new books in my arms.

There you have it! Thanks for checking out our favorite bookstores in the world. What’s your choice? Let us know in the comments!

Thank you for reading “IBR Recommends: Our Favorite Bookstores in the World.” If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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by Sinead Carey

A visit to the bookshops in Dublin City should be on every book lover’s bucket list

While most tourists come to Ireland in search of the famous pub culture or to explore the sprawling green countryside, many of them are surprised to hear that Dublin, the very heart of our little Emerald Isle, is a recognized UNESCO City of Literature.

The city has a rich storytelling history, producing world-renowned authors such as Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and Seamus Heaney. During your stay, you can visit the beach that is featured in Ulysses or have a pint in the pub that was a famous haunt of Oscar Wilde.

If the city inspires you to crack the spine of a good book, there are plenty of great bookshops you can go to. And who better to advise you than a local? I lived in Dublin for several years, and I spent my fair share of time over the years browsing these lovely and unique shops.

Without further ado, here is my list of the top 5 indie bookshops in Dublin, Ireland.

#1. Chapters Bookstore

Address: Ivy Exchange, Parnell Street, Dublin 1

I know something that all book lovers can agree on: Not much beats the smell of a book, old or new. That is why I must start with my personal favorite.

Chapters, Ireland’s largest independent bookshop, is spread over two expansive floors, and the comforting aroma of books hits you immediately when you walk in.

Located on Parnell Street, a short walk from O’Connell Street, this store can satisfy all your needs from rare-edition classics to fly-off-the-shelf debuts. If you are looking for something in particular, there’s a pretty great chance they can stock it.

The best part?

The upstairs caters solely to second-hand books that are sold at discount prices, and the friendly staff is always quick to advise if you can get the book you desire upstairs at a cheaper rate.

COVID-19 Update: Chapters is currently offering phone and post services.

#2. The Gutter Bookshop

Address: Cow’s Lane, Temple Bar, Dublin 8

The staff at Gutter Bookshop says that one of their goals is to help you find a great book that you’d struggle to find on an internet search.

This small shop personifies the phrase quality over quantity!

It isn’t the largest selection, but the store located in the vibrant Temple Bar district features carefully curated titles and hard-to-obtain novels. They also have a charming children’s section complete with fake grass flooring and comfy seating to entertain the most curious of children.

It may give you a thrill down your bookish spine to know that the store owner Bob Johnston says he named the shop after the powerful Oscar Wilde quote:

“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”

COVID-19 Update: The Gutter Bookshop is currently running online services only.

#3. The Winding Stair

Address: Ormond Quay Lower, Dublin 1

If you are looking for uniqueness in your bookshops, then look no further.

The Winding Stair prides itself on being one of Dublin’s oldest surviving indie bookstores. And you won’t find another bookshop like it. The cozy interior is brimming with character – think comfy vintage leather chairs and walls covered in literary posters. They stock all genres and while most of the shop is reserved for new books, they do have a small alcove designated for second-hand books.

The shop name also came from literary inspiration, named after W. B. Yeats poetry:

“My Soul. I summon to the winding ancient stair.”

A mere one-minute walk from the infamous Ha’penny Bridge, the store also hosts a small restaurant of the same name upstairs. Sip a warm cup of tea and look out at the views over the River Liffey while you unwind reading your new book.

COVID-19 Update: The Winding Stair bookshop is now offering a selection of online orders.

#4. The Company of Books

Address: 96 Ranelagh, Dublin 6

The Company of Books is a modern, light space displaying a diverse range of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature.

Nestled in the trendy village of Ranelagh, this store has been growing its customer base since it opened its doors in 2009. You can take a 15 minute bus or tram ride from the city center right to their door.

They host a monthly book club that they encourage customers to join and there is a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in the store. Their small staff have a passion for their work and extensive knowledge of their stock – just ask them a question, you’ll see!

A highlight of their business is that they post endearing book reviews submitted by child readers to their website. Check it out at the button below!

COVID-19 Update: The Company of Books is currently offering free delivery within 2.5km and post-delivery nationally.

#5. Books Upstairs

Address: 17 D’Olier Street, Dublin 2

Lastly, I think every Dubliner has a special place in their heart for the delightful Books Upstairs Bookshop.

Books Upstairs is Ireland’s oldest independent bookshop – having endured several relocations to eventually put roots down on D’Olier Street. Their stock focuses on literature, politics, and history, but they are welcoming of all genres.

The irony of their current location is that the books are, in fact, not upstairs!

In their current royal-blue Georgian building, the books are now sold downstairs, and upstairs is a small coffee shop for customers to read, sip, or write that next great Irish novel.

Books Upstairs may embody old-school vibes, but their ethos has always been progressive. They have been known to promote underrepresented genres such as feminism and gay literature and are a proud advocate of equal rights. Keep an eye out for the bold window displays of their political views.

COVID-19 Update: Books Upstairs are currently open for postal orders only.

So there you have it! That’s my top 5 list! But there is plenty more where that came from. Whether you’re a modern reader or an antique book addict, Dublin has something to offer.

What are your favorite indie bookshops in Dublin? Let us know in the comments!

About the Author

Sinead Carey is a part-time freelance writer and full-time nurse in Ireland. When she doesn’t have her head stuck in a book, she spends her time cuddling her puppy and eating Mexican food. She likes writing about health, travel and lifestyle, and meeting like-minded people along the way. Follow her on Instagram @carey_creative.

Thank you for reading “Top 5 Indie Bookshops in Dublin, Ireland” by Sinead Carey! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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by K.T. Mehra

Is your town home to one of the oldest bookstores in the United States?

Whether you love browsing bookstores or are just a reading fanatic, you’ve come to the right blog post. I’ve gone ahead and done the research for you to show you beautiful and historic bookstores all across the United States.

During my research, I discovered one of the oldest bookstores in the country just two hours from my own hometown. Not too bad! Bookstores have a special place in history on American soil, paving the way for both classic and contemporary authors to sell their books, host events, and contribute to the literary landscape of each area.

Your town might be small, but did one of the oldest bookstores in America come from your state?

Moravian Book Shop, Founded 1745

Let’s start at the beginning! The Moravian Book Shop is the oldest bookstore in the United States of America, and it is even one of the oldest continually operating bookstores in the whole world. Not too shabby! They were even picked up by Barnes & Noble College Booksellers a little while ago.

As a part of the Moravian Church and College in Pennsylvania, it is a staple of student and spiritual life in Bethlehem, PA. No matter if you’re from the Keystone State or not, taking a trip over to the Moravian Book Shop will be well worth it. Not only is it full of history, but hey—they have BOOKS!

Andover Bookstore, Founded 1809

With Moravian partnering up with Barnes & Noble, The Andover Bookstore is now the oldest independent bookstore in the United States of America! The bookstore is a staple in the history of Andover, Massachusetts, and it is a beautiful icon for literary America. You can learn more about their history here.

During the pandemic, they opened up a GoFundMe campaign to help them continue to thrive during this inopportune time. If anything comes from this blog post, I’m hoping that we can get some love and donations sent their way to help The Andover Bookstore keep on being a beacon of long-lasting light in the world of indie bookstores. Here it is: GoFundMe campaign. 

Brattle Book Shop, Founded 1825

A famous and historic bookstore right in the heart of downtown Boston! The Brattle Book Shop is a wonderful place to buy and even sell books. With a huge collection of antique and new books, the Brattle Book Shop in Boston is a must-see.

It is a huge bookstore that has a collection of over 250,000 books, maps, prints, postcards, and ephemeral items in all subjects. There is too much history and beauty to miss this book shop if you are in Boston or just outside of it. It’s even got a gorgeous outdoor browsing section with a classic mural of some of the world’s most influential writers looming over it, so if you’re in the area, make sure you check it out.

Old Corner Bookstore, Founded 1828

UPDATE: Old Corner Bookstore is no longer an operating bookstore. Because it’s still some fun history, we’re leaving the description of the store below.

Old Corner Bookstore is a historic, grassroots bookstore also in the heart of Boston–so impressive that it doesn’t even need a website! The bookstore is located in a lovely historic building made in 1718, and it was turned into a bookstore in 1828. It is a designated site on Boston’s Freedom Trail, Literary Trail, and Women’s Heritage Trail. You can read more about it here.

Whether you live in Boston or are just visiting, you cannot miss this piece of living history. Old Corner Bookstore is considered as a Boston landmark spot and is on the national registry of historic places, so consider it a history lesson while you browse their shelves.

Klindt’s Booksellers, Founded 1870

Klindt’s Books is the oldest bookstore in Oregon and a true staple in the literary landscape of the West. It is both an independent bookstore and a stationary store. Located in The Dalles, Oregon along the Columbia River, Klindt’s is a community-focused bookshop with a book club and events for many of the 150 years it has existed.

Klindt’s is full of staff recommendations, bestsellers, and offers a lovely browsing experience for book lovers and young readers. Learn more about their story here. It’s a great one.

Janke Book Store, Founded 1874

Janke is a great historic bookstore in Wisconsin! It’s got a large varied collection of books, stationary, fountain pens, and maps—a great destination if you are in Wisconsin or are planning a trip there.

It has been a bookstore that offers a variety of products since its founding in 1874. If you’re in the mood for an entertaining little story of their history, check out this history page from their website.

Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop, Founded 1886

Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop is a beautiful historic building and bookstore in Damariscotta, Maine. Since it first came to being in 1886, they’ve also opened multiple locations in Maine. This historic bookshop would be a great stop on your way to the beautiful Acadia National Park. You can go ahead and watch the beautiful scenery on your way and then stop in for some classic book browsing. They have a location in Bar Harbor, too!

With a fascinating history and an extensive line of antique and intriguing titles, Sherman’s should be at the top of your list if you love checking out bookstores in New England.

Horton’s Books & Gifts, Founded 1891

This historic bookstore is one of my favorites on the list. This little historic bookstore is stored away in a small, rural town in Georgia called Carrollton.  In the heart of downtown Carrollton is this refreshing and kindhearted little store that has an authentic collection of classics and new and antique books. It also has an eccentric history, as Mr. Horton originally sold books alongside caskets as an undertaker in the 1800s!

It’s not too far from Atlanta, so if you’re ever visiting the area, make sure to take the drive over to Horton’s for some unique literary history.

Vroman’s Bookstore, Founded 1894

Vroman’s is the last of the turn-of-the-century bookstores that are still around today. They have a huge collection at their independent bookstore in California, and they definitely fit the mold of awesome bookstores from history. It’s another community-focused bookstore that offers events and clubs for their city and that has a large local following because of it.

Vroman’s bookstore is a great place to check out if you live in or around Pasadena, California. To me, it sounds like a nice excuse for a vacation!

Argosy Book Store, Founded in 1925

Last but not least by any measure, Argosy Book Store is a pioneer in historic documents, books, maps, and other pieces of American history. Their bookstore is a beautiful place to be, read, and learn about the world. A true gem if you live in New York. It feels as if you are entering another world when you walk through its doors. 

We hope one of the oldest bookstores in the United States catch your interest enough to stop by. It’s as important as ever to support small business, and I’d love for you to find some new literary gems at one of these shops.

But don’t forget to tell them Independent Book Review and Goldspot Fountain Pens sent you!

About the Author

K.T. Mehra is an entrepreneur and an expert on fountain pens and ink.  She founded Goldspot Pens to sell fountain pens, high quality inks, and various other writing instruments.  She loves beautiful handwriting, letter writing, and great literature. With a pen store located in New Jersey, K.T. has seen all kinds of writers come through and heard their stories and techniques.  She wants to share what she’s learned to help writers explore their craft.

Thank you for reading “10 of the Oldest Bookstores in the United States” by K.T Mehra! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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by Jaylynn Korrell

Hop on your bikes and buses. Here are some great indie bookstores in Brooklyn, New York.

Brooklyn has long been home to some of the most notable writers of our time. Even contemporary authors like Jhumpa Lahiri, Jonathan Safran Foer, and Emma Straub have chosen to live in this popular New York borough of New York at one time, so you could probably imagine how great Brooklyn’s literary scene must be. During an amazing day of walking and driving around the city, Joe and I saw firsthand that Brooklyn offers an abundance of great indie bookstores to browse.

In terms of both quantity (there are over twenty!) and quality, Brooklyn exceeded expectations and proved to be an incredible city for the literary community. They have it all — from holes-in-the-wall bookshops to grand open spaces with natural light to spaces with thousands of titles to peruse. Overjoyed would be an understatement to describe our feelings walking through each of these stores a few weeks ago. It took a while, but we were able to make it to over a dozen stores and found ten of them that we loved and would recommend.

Here is that list, in no particular order.

If you’re planning a trip to Brooklyn, don’t leave without checking out these great bookstores in Brooklyn, New York!

1. Mcnally Jackson

From the outside, it’s almost impossible to tell how large and beautiful McNally Jackson’s is. Set on a quiet warehouse street in Brooklyn, this shop is easily one of the most gorgeous bookstores I’ve ever seen. With an open floor plan and high ceilings, it enraptures you with visual appeal but keeps you there with its wide variety of books.

Somehow, they’ve figured out a way to make every single book on the shelves look like the one you need to learn more about. They have a wide selection of all genres, many indie press books, and even a nice variety of magazines to look through.

2. Unnameable Books

This tiny bookstore features mostly used books, but it has new titles available as well. Their selection varies because so many books are bought from the community, so it could make for a really fun bookstore discovery day.

When browsing the shelves, we found tons of cool titles, old and new. There were also plenty of books by indie presses and even some that were signed by local authors, which I really enjoyed browsing.

3. Greenlight Bookstore

Give me the green light

After seeing this bookstore, I could tell that John Legend was talking about this shop when he wrote it. Greenlight Bookstore was one of the many highlights of this trip. In addition to their popular displays and eye-catching kids’ section, they also had this amazing collection of indie press books from the picture above.

This section grabs your attention as soon as you open the front doors, and since we stan the indie bookstores that put this type of work front and center, we couldn’t help but add Greenlight Bookstore to one of our favorites from the day.

There’s even a second location in Brooklyn! Check those people out over at 632 Flatbush Avenue (at Fenimore), Brooklyn, NY 11225.

4. Book Thug Nation

Book Thug Nation is a cute little community space/used bookstore in the Williamsburg area of Brooklyn. Focusing on used literary fiction, this shop fits a lot of books in a small place at really affordable prices. It’d be a great spot to wander around for a while and find out which books the community has been reading over the years.

5. Desert Island

If you’re looking for comic books in Brooklyn, Desert Island is the place to go. Their plywood shelves are filled with the coolest, classic, popular, and self-published comics across many genres and storylines.

With experimental and underground art filling the walls, this colorful comic store will be a haven for those looking to increase their comic book intake.

6. Books Are Magic

What’s better than a bookstore that is owned by an author? If anybody understands the amazing things a bookstore offers a community, it’s the one who is writing the books!

Books are Magic is owned by Emma Straub, the author of great fiction like Modern Lovers and The Vacationers. She and her husband, who also live in the neighborhood, created a literary slice of heaven with Books are Magic. The store is spacious, has a ton of cool author events, and also has a really awesome mural outside for all you #bookstagrammers out there.

*Bonus! On your way to the bottom floor there is a poetry gumball machine, where you put in a quarter and get a cute little poem. How sweet!

7. Spoonbill & Sugartown

Walking into this bookstore felt like taking a step back in time. If Kerouac and Ginsburg were to run in there, you better believe they’d love what they found. With a collection of poetry, literary criticism, and classics prominently displayed, we felt that it offered a really well-defined Brooklyn mood that we could get behind.

Spoonbill & Sugartown feature a mix of used, rare, and brand new books. They handpick their selection in hopes that you can find the book you’re looking for, but also be drawn to pick up something that you may not have expected.

8. Quimby’s 

Quimby’s gave off some serious occult vibes, and we were into it! Creepy things hung on the walls like preserved insects and funky art, all designed to prepare you for their book selection which give off a similar vibe.

This bookshop describes their title selection as unusual publications, saucy comic books, and aberrant periodicals–so get ready for an interesting mix. Every item in the store demands your attention. Oh, and they do tarot card readings in the back!

9. Powerhouse on 8th

Powerhouse on 8th has a great mix of books and book-inspired gifts. The store sits on a cozy street that is great for walking, and then once you get inside, you can appreciate the brick walls surrounding the carefully curated book selection.

From the outside, it looks a bit like a gift store, but on the inside you’ll see that their relatively small collection still includes some great titles, even including small press gems like Emerald City by Brian Birnbaum. They have a terrific kids book section which takes up the majority of their second floor, too.

10. Community Bookstore

Community bookstore feels like walking into someone’s literary-focused living room. The lights are kinda low, the shelves are black, and the back of the store looks out onto a small patio and a beautiful little garden. To make it even homier, this is the only bookstore (that I saw) that had a very sleepy resident cat in the aisles! Talk about homey.

Community Bookstore is known for their many events that aim to bring the community together, and their selection of new and rare books. This is the kinda place where you bring a coffee, chill, and feel right at home.

*Bonus Bookstore Alert*

Berl’s Brooklyn Poetry Shop

This is the only all-poetry bookstore not just in Brooklyn, but in all of NYC! I couldn’t get this list out there without mentioning it, even though we weren’t able to make it on our trip. But Berl’s specializes in indie press chapbooks and books! Talk about a shop that tugs at our indie heartstrings.

Visit them at 141 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

And that’s all you’re getting from me this time! Have you been to any of these stores before? Which is your favorite?

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell is a nomadic writer currently based out of Pennsylvania. Follow her blog at EarthToJay.com.

Thank you for reading “10 Great Bookstores in Brooklyn, New York” by Jaylynn Korrell! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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by Jaylynn Korrell

Ann Arbor blew me away with the quality of their bookstores. Each with their own unique flare, the independent bookstore scene in this small town are reason enough to visit this Michigan city. That’s assuming you aren’t familiar with University of Michigan football, which Ann Arbor is more widely known for.

But like most places, I’m just in it for the books, and since you’re here, you probably feel the same. As far as variety goes, these stores check off a lot of boxes. I walked into stores with impressive poetry sections right in the front, wonderful displays, metaphysical selections, new indie press titles, and inexpensive used titles too. Some had second floor cafes that were so welcoming and cozy that I even considered moving there. Okay, I may not have gone that far, but still–these bookstores were so wonderful that I knew I had to share them with you.

Here’s my list of “Awesome Indie Bookstores in Ann Arbor, Michigan!”

1. Literati

There’s a reason Literati was named the 2019 Publishers Weekly Bookstore of the Year. It is a literary oasis of great books and great use of space. From the painted quote wall outside to the multiple floors of quality titles inside, Literati is simply crushing it.

Since 2013, Literati has been a staple of the Ann Arbor community and has quickly become a favorite for locals and tourists. Located downtown and just a few blocks from the University of Michigan’s campus, you’ll have every reason to stop here when visiting Ann Arbor. They feature genre-specific book clubs and a jam-packed schedule of author readings and events that all take place upstairs in their special coffee shop: Literati Coffee. And they had a section called, “We love indie presses,” too!

2. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room

This bookstore spoke to my soul. I love finding metaphysical bookshops when traveling, and this one was easily one of my favorites. The employees were so nice when we walked in, and they had an amazing variety of books that ranged from spiritual to some of our indie favorites like Ain’t I a Diva.

You can just tell that every item in the store was thoughtfully chosen. And when you find a title that you just can’t wait to read, you can head upstairs to their tea room where you can enjoy over hundred varieties of teas, coffee, appetizers, and more. I didn’t want to leave.

Address: 114 S. Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

3. Westside Bookshop

When you’re looking for antique and rare books in Ann Arbor, you go here. With large glass windows and an old-timey brick building vibe, West Side Bookshop feels like going back in time. They’ve been a staple in the Ann Arbor community since 1975, and it’s clear why they’ve been successful for so long. This is the kind of bookstore that all readers can love. You can smell the pages in this store. Its homey atmosphere features plenty of unique books stacked from the floor to the ceiling along with old pictures and paintings framed on the walls. Oh, and the owners are really sweet, too.

Address: 113 W. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

4. Dawn Treader Book Shop

From a basement shop to a large storefront with over 70,000 titles, Dawn Treader Book Shop has been an Ann Arbor favorite for over 35 years. This is the kind of store that you can spend an entire day in, discovering titles you’ve always loved and many that you’ve never heard of. Their wide variety may be due to the fact that they buy books back from the community. They even offer book repairs and restorations, but what I noticed first was the giant selection of genre fiction they sold. Sci-fi and Fantasy fans: make your way to the back of the store. There are an incredible amount of stories waiting for you.

5. Nicola’s Books

Can’t find the book you’ve been looking around for forever? If you’re in Ann Arbor, Nicola’s Books is where you should go. They specialize in book searches and claim to be able to hunt down many out-of-print or hard-to-find titles with very little info needed. And they’ve got new books too!

Their staff is made up of ferocious readers who are readily equipped to help you find your next favorite book. Their wide-open layout features tons of books and is the perfect spot for events like author panels, book launches, and children’s story times.

Address: 2513 Jackson Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell is a nomadic writer currently based in Pennsylvania. She writes for Independent Book Review and Earth to Jay. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @JaylynnKorrell.

Thank you for reading “Awesome Indie Bookstores in Ann Arbor, Michigan!” If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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by Jaylynn Korrell

We’ve found some of the best bookstores in Providence! Check em out!

Providence is a small city in a small state, but their bookstores can hang with the best of them. A few years ago, I called Providence home, and some of these stores played a big part in that. With some of them just a couple blocks from my apartment, I’d go frequently just to peruse the shelves and get inspired.

In my time away, one of my favorites closed down and a few intriguing new shops popped up. So I travelled up to Providence to spend the day reacquainting myself with these stores and introducing myself to others. From this recent trip, I’ve compiled a list of must-see bookstores if you’re ever in the area.

I’m happy to say that this list can definitely be explored in a day. Numbers 2&4 as well as 3&5 are only a short walk away from each other and the others are under a 20-minute drive. See, there are perks to being in the smallest state.

Without further ado, here are the best bookstores in Providence, Rhode Island!

1. Riff Raff Bookstore & Bar

Fairly new to the Providence area, this bookstore combines two of my favorite things: reading and drinking. This new book and bar is located in the Olneyville neighborhood at a converted industrial mixed-use building called The Plant. The space is beautiful, boasting an outdoor patio area and a clean open layout inside. Better yet, the books are meticulously curated. I found myself picking up so many titles that I’ve read recently and loved, as well as books I’ve had my eye on for a few months. I’m not sure you can pick a bad book in this shop.

2. Symposium Books

Symposium Books lies smack dab in the middle of downtown on beautiful Westminster Street. Doting a large display window, you can’t walk by this shop without feeling drawn in. Since 2004, Symposium has been a staple of the downtown area with its new and used books, and it really is worth checking out. In addition to their impressive book collection, they have a small record shop inside for all you music lovers out there.  

3. Books on the Square

Next to the shops and restaurants in the Wayland Square neighborhood, you’ll find Books on the Square. This family and dog friendly bookshop has been up and running since 1992. They carry over 20,000 titles in store and host a variety of in-store events. Their space is perfect for all of the author readings that they hold, many of which are from local authors, and their weekly story time is a great event for children and parents.

Address: 471 Angell Street, Providence, RI 02906

4. Cellar Stories – Permanently Closed

A classic in Providence, this bookshop is the vintage search-and-see shop that fuels Bookstagram. Despite its name, you actually walk up a long set of steps upon arrival and come out at the second story of what seems like a big house. The aisles are long and filled with books in every direction. Many of their books are used or rare and in a wide variety of categories including vintage paperbacks, antiquarian volumes, and more.

5. Paper Nautilus

With shelves of antique and collector books, the vibe in this bookshop whispers history. They’ve been located in East Providence since 1996, and have recently moved to a new location a few doors down from their previous spot. They sell nonfiction books on art, architecture, history, philosophy, and more, but they’ve also got a great collection of fiction. Their stock is largely influenced by the surrounding colleges, Brown and RISD, so they have many scholarly editions and titles on the arts. They also have a selection of new and collectible H.P Lovecraft titles, a huge Providence literary icon.

Address: 19 S. Angell Street, Providence, RI 02906

BONUS: Twenty Stories

This blog post was originally written when Twenty Stories was located in Pawtucket, RI. Now, you can find them in Providence at 107 Ives Street Providence, RI 02906

Just a few minutes outside of the Providence city line, you’ll find Twenty Stories in Pawtucket. This business is so cool! What started (and continues still) as a bookshop in a van has recently expanded to a brick and mortar in Pawtucket. Each month, the owners curate twenty titles across different genres to put on display and sell in their shop/van. Their van location is ever changing, and their locations for the week can be found on their website and social media. Their new physical space hosts readings, workshops, and community events with local artists. Twenty Stories is 100% worth the tiny detour out of Providence.

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell is a nomadic writer currently based in Pennsylvania. She writes for Independent Book Review and for her travel blog Earth to Jay. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @JaylynnKorrell.

Thank you for reading “Best Bookstores in Providence, Rhode Island” by Jaylynn Korrell! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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