News & Trending Travel News

The Most Beloved Bookstore in Every State (#21 Isn't Just for Ivy Leaguers)

Experience the allure of a cherished bookshop, where every page holds a story.

choosing a book to buy
Updated Oct. 1, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Whether it’s that fresh book smell or the thought of curling up in a cozy corner with a cup of coffee, there’s something special about stepping into a bookstore.

Finding the best bookshop in any state is worth the trip, no matter if you’re looking for trendy and modern or as homely as possible.

So, grab your favorite travel credit card and let us guide you to the most beloved bookstores in each state.

If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive travel discounts and trip-planning resources

Over 50 and love traveling? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member, you could be missing out on huge travel perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on hotels and resorts, airfare, cruises, car rentals, and more.

How to become a member today:

  • Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
  • Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
  • Start enjoying your discounts and perks!

An AARP membership not only unlocks discounts that could save you hundreds on your next trip, but you’ll also have access to deals on vacation packages, guided tours, and exclusive content to help plan your next getaway.

Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (do not skip this step!). Doing so will allow you to take up to 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.

Become an AARP member now

Alabama: Jim Reed Books (Birmingham)

auremar/Adobe retired woman reading a book

Jim Reed Books, also known as the Museum of Fond Memories, is a fabulous bookstore in the historic Downtown Birmingham area.

What makes it particularly special is that it has over 50,000 books, newspapers, and magazines, including many rare titles.

Even more interesting, they have about 250,000 items in the store that are not cataloged, meaning there’s a treasure to find here.

Alaska: Title Wave Books (Anchorage)

Syda Productions/Adobe woman in sweater reading book

For new and used books, check out Title Wave Books, which boasts 25,000 square feet of space. You’ll also find music, audiobooks, vinyls, and DVDs.

A very community-friendly location, they often have readings and meet-the-author experiences. The kids will love the huge children’s section.

Arizona: Changing Hands Bookstore (Phoenix)

New Africa/Adobe woman reading book on sofa

An independent bookstore with both new and used books, Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix (though they are also in Tempe) offers a huge selection and really great service. You can trade in your old books for new ones, too.

If you need another reason to visit, it’s the First Draft Book Bar, where you can enjoy a coffee and pastry or perhaps a beer or a glass of fine wine.

Earn a $250 travel bonus with this incredible card

There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing bonus and benefits. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has no annual fee and you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

You can earn additional points just by using this card for your everyday purchases — unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. The 25,000 bonus points can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel or dining purchases.

If you want to travel and dine out more, the Travel Rewards card can help you get where you want to go.

The best part? There's no annual fee.

Click here to apply now.

Arkansas: WordsWorth Books (Little Rock)

New Africa/Adobe  little girl reading book

A small business that’s super friendly and feels like a reading room in your home, WordsWorth Books & Co. has plenty to offer avid readers.

This community-centric location is all about supporting local schools through fundraisers and book donations.

When you visit, consider checking out the events calendar for book signings, shop and sip events, and story time.

California: The Last Bookstore (Los Angeles)

Natee Meepian/Adobe reading a book in airplane

A fun and beautiful destination for readers, The Last Bookstore is like a treasure trove of options.

This multi-level location offers both new and used items (including a huge record collection), and it is easy to get lost over time.

With over 22,000 square feet of space for books, along with five art studios, a yarn shop, a fabulous comic book shop, and a book tunnel, this is the best place to visit in Los Angeles.

Best of all, it’s all in a century-old bank where the old vaults are now little book experiences.

Colorado: Tattered Cover Book Store (Denver)

valiantsin/Adobe man taking book from library

Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver is the best in the region, with several locations throughout the state. From the latest releases to old, signed copies, this location offers something for everyone.

Make sure to join the Signed First Editions Club, check out their staff picks, and explore their various in-store events throughout the year.

Since 1971, this destination has been a must for finding a special gift or the perfect book.

Connecticut: R.J. Julia Booksellers (Madison)

JenkoAtaman/Adobe curly boy reading book

R.J. Julia Booksellers is right on the shoreline and is the perfect location for inspiration or quiet reading. There’s a cafe and bistro for a quick bite to eat while you relax.

They have a fantastic kids' and young adults' program with events and activities to help support the next generation, too.

Delaware: 2nd & Charles (Newark)

N Lawrenson/peopleimages.com grandmother reading a book

At 2nd & Charles, you can buy new or used, sell your books, or trade them in (along with video games, CDs, and more).

Every corner is filled with nostalgic or new items with plenty of toys, puzzles, and interesting things to look at, too.

They also have a large gift shop where you can find something inspirational to gift, a really cool themed t-shirt, the perfect Funko, or every type of Manga you can imagine.

Florida: Books & Books (Coral Gables)

fizkes/Adobe A woman reading a book

Books & Books opened in 2001 in a fabulous building that dates back to 1927 (after being located in a 500-square-foot shop beforehand).

When you visit this location, you’ll find exceptional books, a cozy atmosphere, and authors and poets every now and then.

They’ve grown to include virtual book clubs, live events, and a cafe for the perfect drink.

Unlock exclusive entertainment deals and VIP perks (without a credit card)

Ready to take your entertainment and travels to the next level? Experience the finer things in life with the SELECT card.

No, it's not a credit card, it’s an exclusive membership — and your passport to a world of elite benefits and unforgettable moments.

Imagine sipping complimentary cocktails in downtown Manhattan at KYU NYC or saving 20% on the best sushi in Hollywood Hills at Yamashiro.

Like to shop? Members receive VIP discounts like 15% off at Brooks Brothers, and up to 60% off at Tumi.

Enjoy special offers at luxury hotels like the Four Seasons and Omni Select. For example, you get 15% off at Hyatt Hotels worldwide.

But it’s not just about the hundreds (or thousands) you could save. There are so many features that make you feel like a VIP every day. Like SELECT’s white-glove concierge that assists with bookings, recommendations, or anything you need. And priority access to reservations to some of the year’s hottest events (many not open to the public).

Apply for the SELECT card today

Georgia: A Cappella Books (Atlanta)

simona/Adobe reading an electronic book

A Cappella Books is considered one of the few full-service bookstores offering new and used items and a large collection of rare items.

They opened their doors in 1989 to provide an important service to the community. It’s an excellent place to have a conversation and learn.

One great experience here is Writers at the Wrecking Ball, a series of events in which live author interviews take place with writers around the world.

Hawaii: Basically Books (Hilo)

Summit Art Creations/Adobe african senior reading books

If you want to learn the history of the Island, find the perfect map to navigate, or hope to meet a local author, the best bookstore in Hawaii is Basically Books in Hilo.

Noted for its live music and fun-themed gift shop, this has been a destination for locals and tourists since 1985. It’s a family-owned shop and the perfect place for higher-quality souvenirs.

Idaho: Rediscovered Books (Boise)

Daco/Adobe things discovered in a book

Rediscovered Books opened its doors in 2006 to offer a location for great books but also a location where it was possible to meet new people.

They offer book clubs, small events, and a huge children’s section. They particularly make it a point to get books into the hands of children to support a lifetime of learning and reading.

Illinois: Powell's Books (Chicago)

MyJuly/Adobe woman with curly hair in the library

Powell’s Books is a used-book emporium with a large collection of academic books along with others, including antiquarian and out-of-print books.

Their location near the University of Chicago makes this a popular location for textbooks and other educational resources, too.

They are fantastic for trading in old and getting new or finding the perfect rare or bargain book to gift to a friend.

Indiana: Indy Reads Books (Indianapolis)

Zoran Zeremski/Adobe male student studies in the library

As a non-profit organization, Indy Reads Books is a community bookstore with a mission to build literacy. They also teach job readiness skills and offer English language education.

Every time you come in to purchase a book, you’re working to support their mission of adult literacy. It’s an ideal place to find a good book and feel good about that purchase.

Iowa: Prairie Lights Books (Iowa City)

Pixel-Shot/Adobe young students preparing for exam in library

Prairie Lights Books opened its doors in 1978 in a small nook, has expanded to offer a range of services, and is the hub of the local literary society. There’s a big coffee house here, too.

The bookstore, which is near the University of Iowa, is a downtown city destination perfect for an adventure. Explore the three and a half floors of books to find something special.

Kansas: Rainy Day Books (Fairway)

Monkey Business/Adobe friends taking part in book club

Rainy Day Books is in The Fairway Shops and is noted for its original and unique books and events.

Since 1975, the location has provided the community with a location for creative thought, whether it’s a gathering to have a conversation or to raise awareness of literacy needs.

Kentucky: Carmichael's Bookstore (Louisville)

Rawpixel.com/Adobe disscussion in college concept

One of the oldest indie bookstores in Louisville, Carmichael’s is a local treasure. It’s a noted place to buy books, meet authors, enjoy book club meetings, and find the perfect gift (even for non-readers).

Located in a busy, walkable community, Carmichael’s Bookstore is the perfect stop after visiting one of the restaurants or cafes in the area.

Louisiana: Faulkner House Books (New Orleans)

Ejatu Shaw/Adobe african american woman sitting in couch reading book

Faulkner House Books is tucked into the former William Faulkner home in the historic French Quarter. Step into a mansion-style property with stunning floor-to-ceiling shelving.

You’ll find lots of history here, along with rare books. Often called one of the most charming bookstores in the country, it is certainly worth a tour when you’re in New Orleans.

Maine: Sherman's of Bar Harbor (Bar Harbor)

Sherman’s of Bar Harbor is a fantastic bookstore located near the waterfront and is one of several locations owned by Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shops.

The building was used as a printing press in 1886 and was a location to purchase books from the start. Though it’s often changed hands, it remains a historic and charming location.

Maryland: The Ivy Bookshop (Baltimore)

Drobot Dean/Adobe woman in book shop

The Ivy Bookshop is a modern, updated bookshop offering everything from classics to current releases. They partner with numerous schools and educational resources throughout the state.

It’s easy to find something interesting to read here, and the events are fantastic. They offer everything from history lessons to celebrations of various authors.

Massachusetts: Harvard Book Store (Cambridge)

skolovaln/Adobe toddler girl with book

For the Harvard student, at least some time will likely be spent finding the perfect resource or gift at the Harvard Book Store. This independent location has both new and used books from nearly any genre.

Join a club if you’re local, or check out this Cambridge landmark that dates to 1932 firsthand just for the architecture and history of it all.

Michigan: John K. King Used & Rare Books (Detroit)

yossarian6/Adobe librarian taking one book from library bookshelf

With over a million books available, including new and used books, John K. King Used and Rare Books is worth exploring if you genuinely love hard-to-find books.

The rare book room is a good starting point, but this multi-floor bookstore will take you on a journey through time and many adventures as you explore it.

Minnesota: Next Chapter Booksell (St. Paul)

NDABCREATIVITY/Adobe smiling female student holding a book

Long known as the Common Good Books, it was recently purchased and renamed Next Chapter Booksellers.

A full-service, modern bookshop, there are plenty of trending authors, kid’s books, and best sellers to explore.

You’ll also find various events taking place throughout the year, including book signings to meet the author and educational workshops.

Mississippi: Square Books (Oxford)

Алина Битта/Adobe senior woman relaxing in hammock

Take a trip to Square Books, which dates back to 1979. The location, which buys and sells books and offers consignment services, is also the perfect place for gifts.

They have collectibles, rare editions, and events throughout the year with authors and local book clubs. The history of the building alone is fantastic in itself.

Missouri: Left Bank Books (St. Louis)

digitalskillet1/Adobe middle age student working in library

Located on N. Euclid Avenue, Left Bank Books is a smaller location with a huge selection of books and a very knowledgeable staff.

It opened its doors in 1969 and is one of the region's largest independently owned full-line bookstores.

Located in the historic Central West End neighborhood, there are some fabulous art galleries and tasty restaurants nearby for the perfect day out.

Montana: Country Bookshelf (Bozeman)

makasana photo/Adobe author opens package

Country Bookshelf is the largest independent bookstore in the state and is also a solid location for finding a small but special gift.

A local favorite for its collections and staff, Country Bookshelf offers two floors of hand-selected books set in the historic downtown district.

Since 1957, it’s offered a wide range of unique items while also working to support literacy in the community.

Nebraska: Indigo Bridge Books (Lincoln)

BalanceFormCreative/Adobe student studies in the school library

Indigo Bridge Books is a solid choice for finding a book, but it’s also a community gathering space.

What makes it particularly enjoyable is that it’s all about inclusiveness (and they also serve a great cup of coffee).

Nevada: Sundance Books and Music

Kay A/peopleimages.com/Adobe black woman reading

Located in the Levy Mansion, Sundance Bookstore is super fun with a unique, quirky ambiance. You’ll certainly find used and rare books here.

For over 35 years, the location has been the destination for music, books, and meeting people.

New Hampshire: Gibson's Bookstore (Concord)

Prostock-studio/Adobe senior african man reading book

Gibson’s Bookstore was first founded in 1898, making it the oldest bookstore in the region. While it’s moved to a new location since then, it continues to offer community-focused programs and events and a large collection of books.

It’s also the perfect place for children’s books (they are noted for their selection) and educational toys.

New Jersey: The Little Boho Bookshop (Bayonne)

New Africa/Adobe woman reading book near decorative fireplace

You can always find the latest Oprah’s Book Club pick available at this vibrant bookstore.

This cozy and beloved bookstore in Bayonne NJ is known for its activities and community. For instance, kids can guess the number of jellybeans in the jar at Easter time and parents also appreciate the Read & Craft packs to take home.

The Little BOHO Bookshop typically features storytime hours for children as well and to everyone's convenience, you can buy used books on their website.

New Mexico: Collected Works Bookstore (Santa Fe)

Patrick Daxenbichler/Adobe charity book flea market

Having opened its doors in the 1980s, Collected Works Bookstore & Coffeehouse is a full-service store with local book readings and author signings.

It’s a fantastic place for coffee and a good reading nook, and it's located within a few minutes of the historic downtown Plaza.

New York: Strand Bookstore (New York City)

Laura/Adobe man looking for a book in a classic bookstore

Are you looking for a used book, perhaps a rare book, to give as a gift? The Strand Book Store is a charming history option that’s hard to beat.

This landmark bookshop is also noted for its signed books, gifts, and various events throughout the year (and, of course, its ideal location in the heart of the city).

North Carolina: Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe (Asheville)

diignat/Adobe woman with a stack of books in library

Malaprop’s Café first opened its doors in 1982 and has since become an institution in this city, offering a large selection of books.

They are also noted for bringing authors and readers together, supporting local community events focusing on literacy, and offering good food and coffee onsite. What’s not to love here?

North Dakota: Zandbroz Variety (Fargo)

caftor/Adobe stack of books lying on table

Zandbroz Variety is a quirky, fun location that’s much more than just books.

Though they have modern and older books, including the classics, they are very much a gift shop with options like candles and jewelry.

If you’re creative, you’ll love the journals, art supplies, and writing items here, but for book lovers, it’s all about what’s new or finding the perfect vintage book to dive into.

Ohio: Joseph-Beth Booksellers (Cincinnati)

Alextype/Adobe used books at the bookshop

Joseph-Beth Booksellers in the Rockwood Commons area is a full-service bookshop (and home to the Bronte Bistro when you get hungry after exploring the endless books here).

Larger and modern, they are a local and independently owned bookstore that’s a fixture in the area.

Oklahoma: Magic City Books (Tulsa)

Johnstocker/Adobe teenager enjoys reading book

In Tulsa, you’ll find Magic City Books, a bookstore operated by the Tulsa Literary Coalition, a local nonprofit organization. They’re a very specialized location, noted for their literary and fiction works.

Everything they serve here, from hot chocolate and coffee to exceptional books, is for a good purpose to support the community as a whole.

Oregon: Powell's City of Books (Portland)

goodluz/Adobe man in 40s reading book

Powell’s City of Books is perhaps the most iconic location in the area for both new and used books and calls itself the world’s largest bookstore.

It’s been operating in the region since 1971 and remains a family-owned bookstore noted for having just about anything you can imagine.

Pennsylvania: The Doylestown Bookshop (Doylestown

Dusko/Adobe man choosing and reading books in modern bookstore

If you’re looking for a bookshop where you can share conversations with the staff over the book you’re reading, check out The Doylestown Bookshop.

This locally owned bookstore has worked hard to preserve the heritage and ideals of independent bookstores. They offer it all, including a boost to inspire intellectual growth and discovery in all ages.

Rhode Island: Books on the Square (Providence)

digitalmagus/Adobe books toned with a retro

Books on the Square has one of the region's best children’s book areas, but adults are sure to find the rows of unique and interesting books worthy of a visit as well.

This bookstore is in the historic Wayland Square area. You’ll find story times and author events throughout the year, too.

South Carolina: Blue Bicycle Books (Charleston)

InsideCreativeHouse/Adobe senior woman wearing glasses while reading in hammock

Blue Bicycle Books is the place for avid readers who want to find great prices on used books of all genres.

It’s a small, charming location, amongst a nook in the wall, that offers a wide range of books.

It was founded in 1995 and is the long-running host of the Piccolo Spoleto reading and various other activities, including writing camps for kids and the YALLFest.

South Dakota: Mitzi's Books (Rapid City)

Viktoriia/Adobe young woman writer in library

Mitzi’s Books at The Shops at Main Street Square is the perfect place to duck in on a hot day or a cool afternoon to find a fun book to read.

With a cozy vibe and friendly staff. It has an old-world, most enchanting experience to offer. You can tell the owners are true book lovers from the collection, knowledge, and quality of service here.

Tennessee: Parnassus Books (Nashville)

nyul/Adobe reading at home

Opened by a novelist in 2011, Parnassus Books is an independent bookseller with so much to offer (including a comfortable location to simply sit and read).

You’ll find a variety of fun things here, including subscription boxes, unique gifts for book lovers, and events such as readings, poetry, and author signings.

Texas: BookPeople (Austin)

Zoran Zeremski/Adobe male student studying in the library reading book

BookPeople is recognized as one of the largest bookstores in the state but remains locally owned and managed.

Come in, go up and down the rows of books, enjoy a coffee made your way, and then pick up a fun gift for a friend.

Opening their doors in 1970, they have worked to become an award-winning destination supporting the Austin community and the authors within it.

Check out their consignment program, book club, and teacher resources, too.

Utah: Weller Book Works (Salt Lake City)

Wayhome Studio/Adobe  student in glasses looking through book in his hands

At Weller Book Works in Trolley Square, you’ll find rare books, lots of used books that are well-priced, and new products.

Noted for their passion for rare books, this is the place to go if you’re looking for something special (or someone who can offer insightful recommendations).

Note that this is a long-standing destination in an area that’s recently revitalized. It’s fun to come down, find a book or gift, and enjoy a meal nearby.

Vermont: Northshire Bookstore (Manchester)

WavebreakmediaMicro/Adobe Student in wheelchair talking with classmate

Northshire Bookstore is an “everything” bookshop with a huge selection of books for most needs, a large gift selection for booklovers and non-readers alike, and some great breakfast sandwiches and coffees.

The original storage was founded in 1976, and while the new location is larger, the vibe and feel of a historically charming location remains.

Virginia: Shelf Life Books (Richmond)

Patrick Daxenbichler/Adobe box full of books

With over 45,000 books, Shelf Life Books is a fun, vibrant location perfect for finding something weird. It’s not too big, but certainly offers something for anyone.

It’s easily a hub for readers and authors, with events with top-rated authors often occurring. Once called Chop Suey Books, the new name hasn’t changed the long-time patrons coming to this location for all their reading needs.

Washington: Elliott Bay Book Company (Seattle)

Wayhome Studio/Adobe satisfied black male holds many books in hands

Elliott Bay Book Company offers floors of books and gifts to explore as a full-service bookshop. It’s the ideal place to sit and read or even to get some work done with a cup of coffee.

Located in the Capitol Hill area, it has a large selection of new books and vintage treasures. The location has provided everything from author signings to the latest releases for more than five decades.

West Virginia: Taylor Books (Charleston)

Ivan Kurmyshov/Adobe Woman reading a few books on the floor

Taylor Books in the Downtown Charleston Historic District is an independent bookstore, art gallery, and cafe, and it is the perfect place for anyone to find a gift.

There’s live music from time to time, free Wi-Fi always available, and little nooks to hide in as you read and relax. You can also take an art glass in the Annex Gallery.

Wisconsin: Boswell Book Company (Milwaukee)

Swonie/Adobe various books on shelves

Over at Boswell Book Company, you’ll find a solid standard bookshop with a wide selection of items and competitive pricing.

They have an extensive line-up of author signings, various events for the whole family, and secondhand books to explore.

Wyoming: Wind City Books (Casper)

LStockStudio/Adobe woman buying books

At Wind City Books, you can take full advantage of coffee, the latest releases, and old favorites.

The location hosts various events throughout the year, including book signings.

Bottom line

adistock/Adobe Stack of old books

Visiting iconic bookshops is the best way to get a feeling for the local community or to strike up a conversation with other book lovers about the latest releases or a tried-and-true classic.

If you’re trying to travel more this year, make it a point to find the best small bookstore in each community to get a glimpse into what independent bookshops do for the community.

Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards

Benefits

Card Details

  • $0 annual fee
  • Simple, flat-rate rewards
  • Flexible redemption options
  • Up to 75% preferred Rewards bonus potential
  • Apply Now
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.74% - 28.74% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
  • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Bank of <span class='whitespace-nowrap'>America<sup>®</sup></span> Travel Rewards credit card
4.1
info
Apply Now

on Bank of America’s secure website

Read Card Review

Intro Offer

Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

Annual Fee

$0

+

Why we like it