What greater magic is there than getting lost in the pages of a good book? While we’re living through a You’ve Got Mail story with Amazon fighting to dominate the book world, New York City bookstores have proven that nothing can replace the neighborhood bookstore. There are so many treasured book shops dotted all across the city, each with its own personality and charm. Let’s dive into 7 of the best independent bookstores in NYC.
1. Three Lives and Company
Shops come and go but Three Lives and Company has remained a constant in West Village. Named after the three women who founded it, this bookstore has been open since 1978, attracting crowds of locals, artists, writers, and actors. Located on the corner of West 10th Street and Waverly Place, this little creaky-floored bookstore is a celebrated part of the community. The staff is so thoughtful and attentive and their knowledge of books is unparalleled. You can ask the booksellers for any story your heart desires and I’m certain they’ll have a book for you.
2. McNally Jackson
If you’re looking for a hip bookstore, this is it! While McNally Jackson carries a wide selection of books, it seems they place an emphasis on contemporary titles. They carry many signed books too. The original location is in SoHo but there are now locations in Seaport, Williamsburg, and Downtown Brooklyn as well. Goods for the Study is their sister brand for beautiful stationery so be sure to check out that section. Also, their bookstores are known for their great cafes. Basically, this is a millennial’s dream hangout spot.
3. The Strand
Opened nearly 100 years ago, The Strand is one of the most treasured New York bookstores (and stores in general!). It’s the last of the bookstores on “Book Row” which was forty-eight bookstores covering six blocks. Their famous tagline is “18 miles of books” which refers to the 2.5 million used, new and rare books that are housed here. The Strand makes an appearance in many movies and shows including Sex and the City, Julie & Julia, and Dash & Lily.
4. Books Are Magic
(They are! They are!)
This charming bookstore is located in Brooklyn and always reminds me of The Shop Around The Corner from You’ve Got Mail. Books Are Magic is owned by famous author Emma Straub and her husband Michael Fusco-Straub. The space is warm and invites visitors to get lost in the shelves. They also host events here regularly with book signings and readings happening on most nights.
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5. Rizzoli Bookstore
Rizzoli Bookstore is nestled in the busy neighborhood of Madison Square Park and Eataly. This posh and sophisticated Flat Iron bookstore feels like a Harry Potter library with its floor-to-ceiling mahogany bookshelves filled with books. However, it’s known for its incredible selection of gorgeous coffee table books published by the Italian company, Rizzoli. Fun fact: this bookstore is their single US outpost!
6. Sweet Pickle Books
This one is delightfully quirky and is exactly like the name suggests – shelves of books with jars of pickles hidden throughout. Add a good dose of comical handwritten signs and you have yourself Sweet Pickle Books. This shop was opened by Leigh Altshuler after she lost her job during the pandemic and was met with open arms by the community. You can purchase used books or pickles (or both) but you can also trade in your books for pickles. The pickling pays homage to the immigrants who settled in the Lower East Side and relied heavily on preserving as a food source. PS: Their Instagram is a 10/10 follow for wholesome but quirky book-loving content.
7. Book Club
Dim lights, comfy leather couches, people nose deep in books – this bookstore lives up to its name. Located in East Village, this quaint bookstore packs a lot into the small space. It has plenty of books to flip through, comfortable seating, and a wine/coffee bar. Book Club is where readers unite and is a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
That wraps up 7 of the best independent bookstores in New York. They truly bring us so much magic and life! Thank you, bookstores for existing in our world.
Sweet Pickle books is such a cute little space!