There’s nothing quite like walking into your favorite bookshop. Between the cozy atmosphere and the smell of books in the air, it’s no surprise that we’d never want to leave. But finding just the right bookstore for you can be a task within itself. There are so many options out there. As the new year approaches, it’s time to find a bookstore that feels like home for you.
To find the bookshop that best suits you, we asked The Book Hangout Spot on Facebook for their favorite bookstores they frequent. Keep reading to see if one of their suggestions is right for you.
1. Powell’s Books in Portland, Oregon
LaLonnie Johnson, Linc Raabe, Karen Kelly, and Jen Tahl all agree, Powell’s Books is one of the best places to get new and used books in Portland.
“Can you even beat Powell’s in Portland? I just want to spend an entire weekend there.”
Jen Tahl
“Powell’s is my favorite in Oregon.”
Linc Raabe
2. Central Book Exchange in Salt Lake City, Utah
For Heidi Burkard, the bookstore she frequents the most is Central Book Exchange. With its inviting environment and friendly staff, it’s no wonder this bookshop has gained popularity in Salt Lake City.
3. Starr Books in Douglassville, Pennsylvania
While Starr Books may look small on the outside, they make up for it once you step through the door. With an assortment of new and old books, people like Irene Longenecker continue to support this charming bookstore.
4. The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, California
Linc Raabe and Maria Byrne aren’t the only ones that are in awe of The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, California. This bookstore has gained a huge following after posting its infamous arch of books. You can find just about anything at The Last Bookstore, from comic books to memoirs; this bookstore is a bookworm’s dream.
“The Last Bookstore in Downtown Los Angeles is a magical place.”
Maria Byrne
5. One Dollar Book Swap in Dayton, Ohio
Just like the name of the bookshop suggests, you can get great books for just a dollar at One Dollar Book Swap in Dayton, Ohio. Amy Christine can’t get enough of the amazing bookish deals. I know if I were closer to Ohio, I’d be at this bookstore every day!
6. Montana Book Company in Helena, Montana
Montana Book Company is a special bookstore in the Helena area. As an independent, LGBTQ+-owned bookstore, this is a safe space for anyone in the community. Ashley Makowski can attest to the wonderful environment Montana Book Company provides.
7. Strand Bookstore in New York City, New York
Just as big and grand as the rest of New York City is, you have to visit Strand Bookstore if you ever get a chance. Located at 12th street and broadway, you will able to find whatever book suits your fancy. Orlando Gonzales agrees, if you’re looking for a specific book, this is the place you want to search first.
8. Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Cincinnati, Ohio
This isn’t your simple bookshop. At Joseph-Beth Booksellers, they sell an assortment of items for every bookish need. Kristen Wooten goes to find their favorite books here. From books to gifts to food, Joseph-Beth Booksellers is your one-stop shop for all bookworms.
9. McLean and Eakin in Petoskey, Michigan
Want to be transported into the perfect bookstore aesthetic, then visit McLean & Eakin Booksellers in Petoskey, Michigan. With a cottage feel and charming fireplace inside, you’ll want to stay inside for hours. Appolonia DePerro Matz from The Book Hangout Spot can’t get enough of the cozy environment of this bookstore.
10. Better Read Than Dead in Newtown, Sydney
For our viewers down under, we give you the bookstore, Better Read Than Dead in Sydney, Australia. Abbie Bryant visits this bookshop often. With various book clubs and a wonderful staff, you’ll feel welcome every time you open their doors. As one of the most eclectic bookstores in Newtown, you’ll want to put this bookshop on your list if you find yourself traveling.
11. The Book Shelf in Eagle River, Alaska
The owner of The Book Shelf, Cindy Montgomery, has put her heart and soul into running The Book Shelf in Eagle River, Alaska. With her hard work, she’s been able to provide a safe community for all bookworms in the area. Even in smaller towns, bookstores always shine bright.
12. Wee Scot Book Shoppe in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania
Wee Scot Book Shoppe certainly makes a statement with its iconic dog logo on the front window. That isn’t the only thing that attracts customers to the store. Patrons Julia Mac Gil and Casey Bottiger can’t get enough of the cuteness of this bookshop.
“I second this pick!”
Casey Bottiger
13. Underground Books in Carrollton, Georgia
This bookstore is something out of a movie. This bookshop specializes in antique and used books, so if you’re looking for some extra special books like Kalynn Simpkins, you have to take the time and enjoy the quaintness of Underground Books in Carrollton, Georiga.
14. Midtown Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Want to find a bookstore with plenty of charm? Then make time to visit Midtown Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Named one of “America’s Greatest Independent Bookstores” since 2004, you will surely have an amazing time. Thomas Elliot and many others are in awe of its uniqueness. Originally a movie theater in the 1920s, students and bookworms alike will fall in love at first sight with this bookshop.
15. John K. King Books in Detroit, Michigan
Selected as one of Business Insider’s “World’s Best Bookstores,” King K. Books in Detroit, Michigan is something spectacular. With four floors filled with rare and used books, you can spend hours inside this store. Tina Krajniak places this bookshop at the top of her list.
16. Cincy Book Bus in Cincinnati, Ohio
Even though this isn’t a bookstore, the Cincy Book Bus was too good not to put on this list. Book Hangout Spot member Sallie Ellis Stephens loves to grab her books from the book bus, as do many others. Mainly providing children and young adult books, this is the perfect “bookstore” to introduce your kids to reading.
17. Epilogue Books in Rockford, Michigan
Opened in 2018, Epilogue Books in Rockford, Michigan, provides a wonderful place to go to the bookworms in the area. Anne Dwyer has become one of their regulars. How could you not love this bookshop? With various books from all different genres, the selection in Epilogue Books is endless.
18. E. Shaver Bookseller in Savannah, Georgia
E. Shaver Bookseller in Savannah, Georgia, provides way more services than your typical bookstore. In addition to offering book clubs, they also offer bulk sales, educational sales, and special bookish events. For those in the community like LeighAnn Gottfried, this bookseller is a vital aspect of the community.
19. Baldwin’s Book Barn in West Chester, Pennsylvania
From an outside perspective, how is this place even a bookstore? It looks like a little castle, all centering around the love of books. Alexandra Haney is also in wonder of Baldwin’s Book Barn. Between vintage books and cats following you around, this will surely become one of your favorites.
“Baldwin’s Book Barn in West Chester, PA is magical!”
Alexandra Haney
20. Hello Again Books in Cocoa, Florida
For those in the Florida area, you have to visit Hello Again Books. This bookstore is focused on creating a space full of creativity, diversity, and community. They certainly meet those goals, especially for people like Rae Cunningham, who can’t get enough of this store.
“Super cute store with the loveliest owners!”
Rae Cunningham
21. West Side Books in Denver, Colorado
West Side Books in Denver, Colorado, has been serving its community since 1997! Megan Rector and others around the Denver area can find books of all genres and times in West Side Books.
22. Editions Coffee and Bookstore in Kannapolis, North Carolina
Looking for a sweet treat while you’re browsing through books? Then the bookshop you have to visit is Editions Coffee and Bookstore in Kannapolis, North Carolina. At this bookstore, you can munch on some tasty desserts while reading your favorite novel. For Jennifer Upright, this sweet combination has won her heart.
23. McKay’s in Nashville, Tennessee
This is the one-stop shop if you’re looking to buy, sell, and trade books. Additionally, McKay’s in Nashville, Tennessee, has a vast record selection for music lovers. For those like Jenny Gourdouze and Katie Myrick, the options for great books never seem to end.
24. Wordhaven Bookhouse in Sheboygan, Wisconsin
If you’re a lover of all things creative, you must visit Wordhaven Bookhouse in Sheboygan, Wisconsin! Their focus extends past books. They offer writer’s workshops, teach writing classes, sell local art, and host community events centered around literature. Tricia Peterson Meyer frequently visits Wordhaven for its creative atmosphere. For any up-and-coming writers in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, you have to visit this bookstore at least once.
25. Pioneer Book in Provo, Utah
How can you not want to go inside Pioneer Book in Provo, Utah? The front of the building is truly a piece of art. It’s basically like a siren’s song for bookworms. Pat Drehobl and others are lucky enough to visit Pioneer Book. If the outside looks this magnificent, I can only imagine the amazement inside the store.
26. Canterbury Bookstore in Escanaba, Michigan
While most first come to Canterbury Bookstore for the books, they end up staying for the staff. Co-owners Jesse Traub and Rebecca Bender attend to each and every customer with kindness and compassion. Nicole Rossell and other patrons always feel welcomed when they go to Canterbury Bookstore.
“The owners come over to play boardgames with us sometimes. The most delightful couple you will ever meet.”
Nicole Rossell
27. Adventures Underground in Richland, Washington
Adventures Underground in Richland, Washington, is 100% nerd-friendly. Whatever your taste is, this bookstore has everything you could imagine. From comics, games, vinyl, and of course, books, you’ll find yourself walking down the halls of the store for hours. But don’t take our word for it; Erin Sharp has had a special relationship with Adventures Underground.
“I’m biased, as I have worked there for the last 7 years, but I was a customer long before being an employee. They have new and used, as well as boardgames, records, comics and models. There are thousands and thousands of books, and that place is my second home.”
Erin Sharp
28. The Owl Bookstore in Bismarck, North Dakota
North Dakota doesn’t have a lot, but they have a deep love for books. For those who want some vintage and used books, visit The Owl Bookstore in Bismarck, North Dakota! Whether you’re looking for a classic or trying to find books out of your comfort zone, this bookstore is great for all your bookish needs. People like Kayla Marie are thankful for having bookshops like this.
It’s amazing! I was able to complete my Harry Potter set because of the lady who owns this store.
Kayla Marie
Amongst the 28 bookshops, we hope that at least one of them stuck out to you. Treat yourself in the new year by going to a new bookstore. Take it from The Book Hangout Spot, they know a good bookstore when they see it.
Looking for more end-of-the-year roundups? Click here!
Want more content about bookstores and libraries? Click here!