For book lovers, there’s nothing like finding a new bookstore to check out. It’s like being a kid in a candy store. Fortunately, there’s an abundance of great bookstores in New York City. You’ve probably checked out the well-known chains more than once, but have you checked out the independent bookstores? If not, here are several independent bookstores you should check out this weekend.
Seven Independent Bookstores in New York City
Ready to pick up a new book? Consider making a purchase from a local independent bookstore:
1. STRAND
This is an obvious one and most people who live in New York know of Strand, has been inside of Strand, or walked past the bookstore. It’s one of those bookstores that’s on everyone’s bucket lists when going to NYC. And why shouldn’t it be? The bookstore is located at 828 Broadway, just a couple of blocks away from Union Square. It’s central and big.
2. The Mysterious Bookshop
Do you prefer reading crime stories? The Mysterious Bookshop, which is devoted to all things mysterious, has got you covered. Located in TriBeCa, in Manhattan, this bookstore is known for being covered in books from floor to ceiling. It’s been around for 36 years, and it’s open 6 days a week (not Sundays). The shop also offers book clubs you can join, where you’ll get a signed first edition every month.
3. Argosy Book Store
If you’re looking for rarities, you might want to head over to Argosy Book Store, as it is the oldest independent bookstore in New York City. Note that you’ll find rare and old books here, and with that, the price might be more than what you’d like to pay for a book. But if you’re a collector or you’re just looking for a specific edition of the book you love you might not be bothered to pay the extra money for some quality books.
4. Three Lives & Company
Three Lives & Company has described itself as “A haven for people who read.” We don’t disagree with that statement. The bookstore has been around since 1968 and holds a variety of hardcovers and paperbacks. This homey bookstore is found in Greenwich Village, and you won’t be disappointed if you take a trip inside.
5. Blue Stockings
Blue Stockings is a collectively-owned bookstore run by volunteers only. They’re also one of the only bookstores that freely advertise that people can use their restrooms and charge their phones. Blue Stockings is also an activist center, which explains their impressive selection on topics such as feminism, global capitalism, gender studies, and more. Heading to the Lower East Side? Set aside half an hour to look for some books for personal education.
6. Singularity & Co
What started as a Kickstarter project has ended up as the go-to store for vintage Sci-Fi, fantasy, and pulp fiction books. Located in DUMBO, this store is a treasure chest for those interested in getting their hands on vintage science fiction, fantasy, or pulp fiction books. While the store has a rather anonymous facade, the inside is not, and it’s open from Wednesday to Sunday.
7. Greenlight Bookstore
In 2009, Brooklyn’s Fort Greene neighborhood welcomed a new addition. An addition that was long overdue, a bookstore. Greenlight Bookstore has it all, from classic titles to kids’ story time readings. The bookstore’s reading and kids’ story time events have made the store a popular place for families with kids as well.
Editor’s Note: We updated this article to enhance readability.
