26 Of The Best Bookstores In New York City76

Nathan Jahnke

3 min read

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31-12-2024

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New York City, a concrete jungle where dreams are made and broken, is also a haven for bibliophiles. From sprawling independent shops to cozy, hidden gems, the city overflows with bookstores offering a diverse selection of titles, events, and unique atmospheres. This list highlights 26 of the best, catering to every literary taste and browsing preference.

Independent & Unique:

1. The Strand: A legendary NYC institution, The Strand boasts miles of books, rare finds, and a truly unparalleled atmosphere. It's a must-visit for any book lover.

2. McNally Jackson Books: This independent bookstore in Nolita offers a curated selection of books, author events, and a welcoming community feel.

3. Three Lives & Company: A West Village staple, Three Lives & Company is known for its knowledgeable staff, carefully chosen inventory, and intimate setting.

4. Books Are Magic: Founded by Emma Straub, this Cobble Hill bookstore offers a delightful selection, children's events, and a vibrant community space.

5. Greenlight Bookstore: Located in Fort Greene, Greenlight Bookstore is a community-focused space hosting regular author readings and events. Their selection is diverse and carefully chosen.

6. Word Bookstore: This independent bookstore in Greenpoint boasts a strong community presence, hosting numerous events and providing a welcoming space for book lovers.

7. Housing Works Bookstore Cafe: Combining a bookstore with a cafe, Housing Works offers a wide selection of books at affordable prices while supporting a vital cause.

8. The Argosy Book Store: A true antique bookstore, Argosy offers a treasure trove of rare and collectible books.

Genre Specific & Specialized:

9. The Mysterious Bookshop: A haven for mystery lovers, The Mysterious Bookshop offers a carefully curated collection of crime fiction, thrillers, and mysteries.

10. Forbidden Planet: This iconic store caters to sci-fi and fantasy fans, offering a wide selection of comics, graphic novels, and related merchandise.

11. Shakespeare & Company: A charming bookstore evoking the spirit of its Parisian namesake, offering a curated selection of literature and a cozy atmosphere.

12. Rizzoli Bookstore: This high-end bookstore showcases beautifully designed books, art books, and photography volumes.

13. East Village Books: This quirky and eclectic bookstore offers a vast collection of used and rare books at incredibly affordable prices.

Large Chains with Unique Offerings:

14. Barnes & Noble (Union Square): While a chain, the Union Square location is impressive in size and selection, often hosting events and author signings.

15. Books & Books (Coral Gables): Though technically not in NYC, this South Florida chain has a strong presence in the city and offers a carefully curated selection of titles.

Hidden Gems & Unexpected Finds:

16. City Lights Bookstore (West Village): While not as large as other locations, this outpost offers a charming and intimate browsing experience.

17. Odyssey Books: This East Village institution offers a wide selection of used and rare books at great prices.

18. Politics and Prose (Union Market): Though not strictly NYC, this Washington D.C. based bookstore's Union Market pop-up is worth a visit.

Academic & Specialized:

19. J. W. Bouton (Midtown): A long-standing supplier of academic and professional books.

20. Columbia University Bookstore: Located on the Columbia University campus, this bookstore offers a wide selection of academic texts and related materials.

Unique Experiences:

21. The Booklyn: A unique bookstore that offers a variety of services including book club meetings, and writing workshops.

22. Labyrinth Books: This charming bookstore in Princeton Junction, NJ is worth the short trip outside NYC for its unique selection and community focus.

Beyond the Books:

23. The Strand's Coffee Shop: Enjoy a coffee and pastry while browsing at the iconic Strand.

24. Books & Books' Cafe: Many locations provide comfortable seating and a cafe setting.

25. Housing Works' Cafe: This cafe provides a perfect setting for enjoying a beverage while perusing the books.

26. Many Independent Stores: Many independent bookstores also offer a variety of events such as author readings, book signings, and workshops.

This list offers a diverse starting point for exploring NYC's vibrant bookselling scene. Remember to check websites for hours of operation and special events before your visit. Happy reading!