Top Bookstores Across All 50 States

From cozy resident cats to the nostalgic scent of aged pages, physical bookstores offer an irreplaceable charm that online retailers simply can’t match. To celebrate Independent Bookstore Day on April 29, 2023, Mytour has curated a list of the top bookshops in each state, along with a few extra favorites we couldn’t leave out.

1. Alabama’s Premier Bookstore: Alabama Booksmith // Homewood, Alabama

A hidden treasure near Birmingham, Alabama Booksmith is a haven for bibliophiles and collectors. Following its 2012 renovation, the store now specializes in signed editions, with every book displayed cover-out to help customers quickly find their perfect read.

More Alabama Bookstores Worth Visiting: Reed Books (Birmingham), Page & Palette (Fairhope)

2. Alaska’s Top Bookstore: Title Wave Books // Anchorage, Alaska

With a playful name, Title Wave Books stands out as Alaska’s largest bookstore and one of the nation’s biggest used book retailers. Featuring a vast collection of over 500,000 books, the store also offers vinyl records, audiobooks, and DVDs. Beyond browsing, visitors can enjoy events like Scrabble and chess nights.

Additional Alaska Bookstores We Recommend: The Writer’s Block (Anchorage), Homer Bookstore (Homer)

3. Arizona’s Best Bookstore: Changing Hands Bookstore // Phoenix & Tempe, Arizona

Spanning Phoenix and Tempe, Changing Hands Bookstore showcases the finest of Arizona’s literary scene. Established in 1974, the Tempe location’s success led to the opening of a second store in a renovated central Phoenix restaurant. The Phoenix branch features the popular First Draft Book Bar, offering a unique experience of enjoying drinks while browsing books.

More Arizona Bookstores We Adore: Antigone Books (Tucson)

4. Arkansas’ Premier Bookstore: Dickson St. Bookshop // Fayetteville, Arkansas

A beloved spot near the University of Arkansas campus, Dickson St. Bookshop offers an extensive collection of literary classics and more. With thousands of books in stock, it’s often recognized as one of the top bookstores not only in Arkansas but across the entire country.

More Arkansas Bookstores We Recommend: WordsWorth Books & Co (Little Rock)

5. California’s Top Bookstore: Green Apple Books // San Francisco, California

Despite stiff competition from iconic stores like City Lights, Green Apple Books remains a cherished destination for San Francisco’s book enthusiasts. Over the years, it has expanded into a spacious two-story location in the Richmond District, offering a mix of new and used books, e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and LPs. In 2014, it opened a second location near Golden Gate Park, Green Apple Books on the Park. The store also runs the Apple-a-Month Club, delivering a new fiction paperback monthly, and hosts readings by both local authors and literary giants.

Other California Bookstores We Adore: City Lights Bookstore (San Francisco), The Last Bookstore (Los Angeles), Book Soup (Los Angeles), Time Tested Books (Sacramento), Chaucer’s Bookstore (Santa Barbara)

6. Colorado’s Top Bookstore: Tattered Cover // Denver, Colorado

Since its founding in 1971, Denver’s iconic Tattered Cover has undergone many changes, including relocations, expansions, and the addition of cafes. Once even featuring a restaurant and bar, it now stands as one of the nation’s most successful independent bookstores, offering new and used books at multiple locations in Denver and Littleton. The store boasts international bestsellers, indie titles, and a vast selection of used books. It also hosts writing workshops, book clubs, author events, film screenings, and children’s storytime, and in 2019, launched the Colorado Book and Arts Festival.

More Colorado Bookstores We Recommend: Book Cranny (Arvada), Boulder Bookstore (Boulder), Capitol Hill Books (Denver)

7. Connecticut’s Best Bookstore: R.J. Julia Booksellers // Madison, Connecticut

For decades, R.J. Julia has been a top destination for book lovers in Connecticut. Recognized by New England magazine as one of the “Best Bookstores to Spend the Day” in 2018, this Madison gem offers an extensive collection of books and gifts, a welcoming cafe, and a highly knowledgeable staff. Beyond shopping, the store hosts over 300 annual events. Owner Roxanne J. Coady is passionate about matching readers with their ideal books, launching the Just the Right Book subscription service in 2009 and a companion podcast featuring interviews with bestselling authors. For those unable to visit, the store’s “What’s Your Perfect Next Read” online quiz is a great way to discover your next favorite book.

More Connecticut Bookstores We Recommend: Hickory Stick Bookshop (Washington Depot), Byrd’s Books (Bethel)

8. Delaware’s Top Bookstore: Browseabout Books // Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Established in 1975, Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach is a beloved institution, celebrated to the extent that Delaware’s governor and several state senators attended its 40th anniversary. In 1992, it expanded into a former open-air mall, now offering gifts, toys, stationery, and a coffee bar alongside its book collection. Recognized by Poets.org as a poetry-friendly bookstore, it was praised by writer Anna March in Tin House for its diverse selection, including bestsellers, local authors, literary fiction, and a robust children’s section.

Other Delaware Bookstores We Love: Bethany Beach Books (Bethany Beach)

9. Florida’s Best Bookstore: Books & Books at The Studios of Key West // Key West, Florida

Books & Books has multiple locations across South Florida and the Cayman Islands, but the Key West branch holds a unique charm for bibliophiles. This location, founded by Judy Blume and her husband George Cooper, is housed in a former Masonic Temple turned nonprofit arts space. Designed with readers in mind, it features reading lights, a thoughtfully curated collection of literary fiction, poetry, art books, and bestsellers, plus a dedicated room for professional art supplies. It’s also the only bookstore where you might receive recommendations directly from Judy Blume herself.

More Florida Bookstores We Recommend: Murder on the Beach Mystery Bookstore (Delray Beach)

10. Georgia’s Top Bookstore: Charis Books // Atlanta, Georgia

Established in 1974, Charis Books And More is the South’s oldest independent feminist bookstore. Its diverse inventory includes LGBTQ fiction and non-fiction, works on food issues, body image, anti-ableism, race, and reproductive rights. Committed to supporting local authors, Charis invites writers of all backgrounds to submit their books for sale. The store also organizes around 270 annual events focused on literature, social justice, and education.

Other Georgia Bookstores We Love: Book Nook (Decatur), Avid Bookshop (Athens), A Cappella Books (Atlanta)

11. Hawaii’s Top Bookstore: Talk Story Bookstore // Hanapepe, Kauai

As the westernmost bookstore in the U.S., Talk Story Bookstore offers a vast collection of over 150,000 new, used, and out-of-print titles, ranging from mysteries to Hawaiiana. The only bookstore on Kauai, it’s a cherished community hub, known for its welcoming owners, Ed Justus and Cynthia Lynn, who have run the store since 2004.

More Hawaii Bookstores We Recommend: da Shop: books + curiosities (Honolulu), BookEnds (Kailua)

12. Idaho’s Top Bookstore: Rediscovered Books // Boise, Idaho

Since its establishment in 2006, Rediscovered Books has become a favorite among literary enthusiasts. The store hosts numerous book clubs and events, including author signings and their popular Book & Booze nights, catering to a wide range of adult interests.

More Idaho Bookstores We Recommend: The Well-Read Moose (Coeur d’Alene), BookPeople of Moscow (Moscow)

13. Illinois’ Best Bookstore: Anderson’s Bookshop // Naperville, Illinois

A cornerstone of the Naperville community since 1875, Anderson’s Bookshop is still run by the fifth generation of the founding family. Known for its author events, book clubs, and children’s activities, the store also offers a vast selection of books. Don’t miss their monthly staff picks to expand your to-be-read list.

More Illinois Bookstores We Recommend: Bookman’s Corner (Chicago), The Book Cellar (Chicago)

14. Indiana’s Top Bookstore: Hyde Brothers // Ft. Wayne, Indiana

Hyde Brothers, self-proclaimed as “Indiana’s best-loved bookstore,” lives up to its reputation. This cozy secondhand shop is packed with books stacked on towering shelves, offering specialties like history, literature, nature, sports, horror, and religion. Step stools and ladders help you navigate the collection, and don’t miss the chance to meet the store’s resident cats, Scout and Sherlock.

Other Indiana Bookstores We Love: Indy Reads Books (Indianapolis), Main Street Books (Lafayette)

15. Iowa’s Best Bookstore: The Haunted Bookshop // Iowa City, Iowa

Here’s a spoiler: This secondhand bookshop isn’t actually haunted (its name is inspired by Christopher Morley’s novel). While that might be a letdown, the shop’s extensive collection certainly isn’t. Housed in a historic 1847 mansion with 10 rooms, it offers a wide range of genres, including fiction, world cultures, history, art, regional history, science, and more.

More Iowa Bookstores We Recommend: Source Book Store (Davenport)

16. Kansas’ Top Bookstore: Rainy Day Books // Kansas City, Kansas

Rainy Day Books is a must-visit for authors and readers in Kansas City. A pioneer in hosting author events to build a literary community, it now boasts one of the busiest event schedules nationwide. Alongside its curated selection of books, the store highlights staff picks that showcase both emerging writers and bestsellers.

Other Kansas Bookstores We Love: Watermark Books and Cafe (Wichita), The Raven Bookstore (Lawrence)

17. Kentucky’s Top Bookstore: Joseph-Beth Booksellers // Lexington, Kentucky

Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Lexington is a haven for book lovers. Known locally as JB, this store has six locations across Kentucky and Ohio, but the Lexington branch stands out for its beauty. Enjoy a book and a meal at the Brontë Bistro, while basking in the natural light streaming through the skylight in the vaulted ceiling.

More Kentucky Bookstores We Recommend: Carmichael’s Bookstore (Louisville)

18. Louisiana’s Best Bookstore: Faulkner House Books // New Orleans, Louisiana

It’s no surprise that William Faulkner’s former New Orleans apartment now houses Faulkner House Books. Nestled on Pirate’s Alley in the French Quarter, this charming store offers a curated selection of Faulkner’s works, Modern First Editions, Southern Americana, and books by Tennessee Williams and Walker Percy.

More Louisiana Bookstores We Recommend: Garden District Book Shop (New Orleans)

19. Maine’s Top Bookstore: Longfellow Books // Portland, Maine

Portland, often dubbed Maine’s “hippest city,” is home to several indie bookstores. Among them, Longfellow Books stands out. Named after local poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the store regularly hosts book launches, poetry readings, and showcases a diverse selection of staff picks.

Other Maine Bookstores We Love: Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café (Camden), Annie’s Book Stop (Wells), Gulf of Maine Books (Brunswick)

20. Maryland’s Best Bookstore: Second Story Books // Rockville, Maryland

The expansive warehouse of Second Story Books in this Washington, D.C. suburb is filled with used books, rare editions, antiquarian collections, art, antiques, and more, all organized into delightfully niche categories (think Byzantine studies or polar exploration). Be prepared to uncover hidden gems at half the cover price. A smaller branch is also located in D.C.’s Dupont Circle neighborhood.

More Maryland Bookstores We Recommend: The Book Escape (Baltimore), Normal’s Books and Records (Baltimore)

21. Massachusetts’ Top Bookstore: Trident Booksellers & Cafe // Boston, Massachusetts

Given the abundance of colleges in Massachusetts, it’s no surprise the state boasts an impressive selection of bookstores. Trident Booksellers & Cafe not only offers a fantastic book collection but also features a cafe open until 10 p.m., serving breakfast all day—perfect for students. Visitors can enjoy a meal or coffee while exploring the bookstore and one of the city’s best magazine selections.

More Massachusetts Bookstores We Recommend: Raven Used Books (Cambridge), Titcomb’s Bookshop (East Sandwich), Grolier Poetry Book Shop (Cambridge)

22. Michigan’s Top Bookstore: John K. King Used and Rare Books // Detroit, Michigan

Book enthusiasts could easily lose themselves for hours at John K. King Used and Rare Books in Detroit. The store spans four floors and houses over a million books, including 25,000 rare volumes. Don’t be daunted by its size—staff provide maps to help visitors navigate the extensive collection.

Other Michigan Bookstores We Love: Brilliant Books (Traverse City), Kazoo Books (Kalamazoo)

23. Minnesota’s Top Bookstore: Wild Rumpus // Minneapolis, Minnesota

While its collection is tailored to younger readers, any book enthusiast would find it hard to skip this delightful store, named after Where the Wild Things Are. Since its opening in 1992, Wild Rumpus has aimed to be more than a bookstore—it strives to inspire a lifelong love of reading through virtual bilingual story times and age-specific book clubs. The shop is also home to animals like Dave the cockatiel and Eartha Kitt the kitten. It’s no wonder the store was named Publishers Weekly’s Bookstore of the Year in 2017, the first children’s store to earn this honor.

Other Minnesota Bookstores We Recommend: Birchbark Books (Minneapolis), Magers & Quinn Booksellers (Minneapolis), Sweet Reads (Austin)

24. Mississippi’s Best Bookstore: Square Books // Oxford, Mississippi

Oxford’s Square Books proudly spans “four stores on five floors in three buildings 100 feet apart.” The main store, located in a historic building with a block-long balcony, is complemented by a children’s bookstore and “Off Square Books,” which focuses on lifestyle titles and bargain books. The newest addition, Rare Square Books, opened in September 2019 and specializes in rare first editions and vintage finds. Beyond author events, the store hosts Thacker Mountain Radio, a weekly live show featuring literary and musical talent. It’s no surprise Publishers Weekly named it Bookstore of the Year in 2013.

More Mississippi Bookstores We Recommend: Lemuria Books (Jackson)

25. Missouri’s Top Bookstore: Left Bank Books // St. Louis, Missouri

Established in 1969 by Washington University graduate students seeking a hub for diverse literature, St. Louis’s Left Bank Books has been a community cornerstone for over 50 years. The store supports literacy initiatives in St. Louis public schools and hosts monthly open book clubs, including groups for gay men, lesbians, resistance-themed readings, and horror novel enthusiasts.

More Missouri Bookstores We Recommend: Prospero’s (Kansas City), Well Read Books (Fulton)

26. Montana’s Top Bookstore: Country Bookshelf // Bozeman, Montana

Founded in 1957, Country Bookshelf exudes a nostalgic charm and boasts a knowledgeable staff that consistently earns praise. Beyond hosting author events and book clubs, the store collaborates with Bozeman schools and the public library to support literacy through its “One Book—One Bozeman” initiative.

More Montana Bookstores We Recommend: Shakespeare & Co. (Missoula), Tumbleweed Bookstore and Cafe (Gardiner)

27. Nebraska’s Top Bookstore: Indigo Bridge Books // Lincoln, Nebraska

Combining a bookstore with a coffee shop, Indigo Bridge is a welcoming space for readers of all kinds. The store has deep ties to the local community, with some areas designed by children, and donates all coffee proceeds back to community initiatives.

Other Nebraska Bookstores We Love: The Sequel Bookshop (Kearney), A Novel Idea Bookstore (Lincoln)

28. Nevada’s Best Bookstore: Sundance Books and Music // Reno, Nevada

Who would have thought a state like Nevada, home to Las Vegas, would have avid readers? Sundance has thrived since 1985 and moved to its current location in 2011. The store is set in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, now a sanctuary for book lovers. Conveniently located near the airport, it’s perfect for grabbing a book before your flight.

More Nevada Bookstores We Recommend: Bauman Rare Books (Las Vegas), Copper Cat Books (Henderson)

29. New Hampshire’s Top Bookstore: Gibson’s Bookstore // Concord, New Hampshire

If you need a reason to step away from online shopping and visit a physical bookstore, Gibson’s in Concord offers a strong one. Operating since 1898, the store not only features books and a coffee bar but also integrates educational toys and games from the local Imagination Village.

More New Hampshire Bookstores We Recommend: Book and Bar (Portsmouth), Escape Hatch Books (Jaffrey)

30. New Jersey’s Top Bookstore: Montclair Book Center // Montclair, New Jersey

Some fans joke that being locked inside the Montclair Book Center wouldn’t be a bad fate. The store spans over 10,000 square feet, packed with new and used books, including an extensive selection of vintage sci-fi and history titles. It also features a room filled with used records for music enthusiasts.

Other New Jersey Bookstores We Love: Books and Greetings (Northvale), WORD (Jersey City)

31. New Mexico’s Top Bookstore: Collected Works Bookstore and Coffeehouse // Santa Fe, New Mexico

At Collected Works in Santa Fe, you can unwind with a book and organic, locally roasted coffee, either indoors or on the patio. The store offers over 30,000 titles and hosts numerous author events. Visitors often praise its cozy ambiance and delicious desserts as reasons to stay longer.

More New Mexico Bookstores We Recommend: Page 1 Books (Albuquerque), Bookworks (Albuquerque)

32. New York’s Best Bookstore: The Strand Bookstore // New York, New York

The Strand boasts a multi-story collection so vast it spills onto the sidewalk. The store claims its shelves stretch 18 miles, filled with new, used, and rare books, with multiple locations and kiosks across the city.

More New York Bookstores We Recommend: Housing Works Bookstore Cafe (New York City), Binnacle Books (Beacon), Dog Ears Bookstore (Buffalo)

33. North Carolina’s Top Bookstore: Main Street Books // Davidson, North Carolina

Despite fierce competition in North Carolina, Main Street Books in Davidson stands out as one of the state’s best. Operating since 1987 in a converted general store, it offers a variety of programs for book enthusiasts. Through its subscription service, “The Matchbox,” customers can receive monthly staff-curated selections from kids’ books, first editions, or paperbacks.

More North Carolina Bookstores We Recommend: Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe (Asheville), City Lights Bookstore (Sylva)

34. North Dakota’s Top Bookstore: Zandbroz Variety // Fargo, North Dakota

In May 1989, brothers Jeff and Greg Danz fulfilled their dream by opening Zandbroz Variety in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Its success led to a second location in Fargo. The Fargo store offers a unique blend of quirky items, but books take center stage, including a section for local authors and regional history. The store also features greeting cards, toys, jewelry, housewares, and excellent coffee, making it hard to leave.

Other North Dakota Bookstores We Love: Main Street Books (Minot), Sweets N Stories (Oakes)

35. Ohio’s Best Bookstore: Loganberry Books // Cleveland, Ohio

Loganberry Books, named after owner Harriet Logan, has been a beloved alternative to chain bookstores in Cleveland since 1994. With over 100,000 new, used, and rare titles, it rivals mainstream stores. Online, it offers “Stump the Bookseller,” a service where customers can describe books they can’t remember, hoping fellow book lovers can help identify them.

More Ohio Bookstores We Recommend: The Ohio Book Store (Cincinnati), Gramercy Books (Bexley)

36. Oklahoma’s Top Bookstore: GypsySnark Books // Stillwater, Oklahoma

This cozy used bookstore and eclectic shop in Stillwater offers something for everyone, from sci-fi and horror to gardening and local history. Its unique name reflects the owner’s passions: Susan Thomas, a retired U.S. Forest Service analyst, studied gypsy moths (now called spongy moths) and loves Lewis Carroll’s poem “The Hunting of the Snark.” Combining the two, she created GypsySnark.

Other Oklahoma Bookstores We Love: Full Circle Bookstore (Oklahoma City), Chapters (Miami)

37. Oregon’s Top Bookstore: Bloomsbury Books // Ashland, Oregon

For almost four decades, Bloomsbury Books has aimed to provide an unadulterated reading experience. Named after the early 20th-century London literary circle, the Bloomsbury Group—where Virginia Woolf was a key member—this bookstore mirrors her legacy. Seek staff recommendations and enjoy your new book in their inviting coffee shop.

More Oregon Bookstores We Recommend: Powell’s Books (Portland), Gold Beach Books (Gold Beach)

38. Pennsylvania’s Top Bookstore: Farley's Bookshop // New Hope, Pennsylvania

Situated in the vibrant downtown of New Hope, a charming town along the Delaware River, Farley’s has been a local staple since 1967. The store exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of pre-Amazon days, with a staff of avid readers who can seemingly decipher your vague book requests. A rare perk is its private parking lot, a blessing for shoppers who lose themselves in its meticulously curated collection.

More Pennsylvania Bookstores We Recommend: Head House Books (Philadelphia), The Old Library Bookshop (Bethlehem), Books Galore (Erie), City Books (Pittsburgh)

39. Rhode Island’s Best Bookstore: Charter Books // Newport, Rhode Island

Founded in 2020 by Steve Iwanski, Charter Books caters to both Newport residents and visitors. Named after the Rhode Island Royal Charter of 1663, the store aims to foster community and local culture through its diverse book selection, events, and open exchange of ideas. It also offers a “Signed First Editions Club,” delivering a signed hardcover by a staff-selected author every four to six weeks.

More Rhode Island Bookstores We Recommend: Barrington Books (Cranston)

40. South Carolina’s Top Bookstore: Blue Bicycle Books // Charleston, South Carolina

Don’t be deceived by its modest storefront: Blue Bicycle Books on Charleston’s Upper King Street stretches 172 feet deep. The store hosts over 200 author events annually, accommodating up to 150 attendees. Since opening in 1995, it has welcomed notable authors like David Sedaris, R.L. Stine, Sue Monk Kidd, Bill Murray, and Neil Gaiman. The shop highlights local Charleston writers and military history, while also featuring bestsellers and rare signed first editions by authors like Harper Lee and William Faulkner. It also runs a summer writing camp for kids and organizes YALLFest, a YA festival drawing over 12,000 fans each November.

Other South Carolina Bookstores We Love: M.Judson Booksellers (Greenville), Fiction Addiction (Greenville)

41. South Dakota’s Best Bookstore: Mitzi's Books // Rapid City, South Dakota

For over a decade, Mitzi’s has provided Rapid City’s book lovers with a thoughtfully curated selection in a cozy, home-like setting. Feel free to relax in a chair and spend hours reading a staff-recommended book—lingering is encouraged. The store also boasts a diverse children’s section, making it a perfect destination for all ages.

More South Dakota Bookstores We Recommend: The Book Zealot (Watertown)

42. Tennessee’s Top Bookstore: Parnassus Books // Nashville, Tennessee

Parnassus Books (“An Independent Bookstore For Independent People”) has become a haven for Nashville readers. Co-founded by bestselling author Ann Patchett and publishing expert Karen Hayes in 2011, it was created to fill the void left by the absence of bookstores in the city. Inspired by Patchett’s childhood love of intimate bookshops, Parnassus prioritizes books and readers over gimmicks. The store features works by local authors, an exceptional biography section, passionate staff, regular author events, and a monthly book subscription club.

Other Tennessee Bookstores We Love: Burke’s Book Store (Memphis), Landmark Booksellers (Franklin), novel., (Memphis)

43. Texas’ Top Bookstore: BookPeople // Austin, Texas

Over the past decade, Austin, Texas, has transformed significantly, but some beloved institutions remain. BookPeople, a local gem since 1970, captures the essence of “old” Austin. With knowledgeable staff, a reliable stock of classics, and a commitment to promoting new literature, it’s a must-visit. The store has hosted some of the biggest authors for readings and events, solidifying its status as Austin’s best bookstore.

More Texas Bookstores We Recommend: Interabang Books (Dallas), Burrowing Owl Books (Canyon), The Twig Bookshop (San Antonio)

44. Utah’s Best Bookstore: The King’s English // Salt Lake City, Utah

When Ann Berman and Betsy Burton opened King’s English in 1977, they initially sought a space to work on their novels. Instead, they built one of Utah’s most cherished bookstores. While it has drawn famous admirers like James Patterson (who funded the children’s section), it remains a community-focused shop where staff know your name and reading tastes.

More Utah Bookstores We Recommend: Weller Book Works (Salt Lake City), Back of Beyond Books (Moab)

45. Vermont’s Top Bookstore: Northshire Bookstore // Manchester Center, Vermont

This cozy, family-run bookstore has been a local favorite since 1976, now housed in a historic inn. With an excellent selection, inviting reading corners, and a loyal staff (some with decades of experience), it’s the perfect place to discover your next great read. A third of the store is devoted to children’s books, making it ideal for families.

More Vermont Bookstores We Recommend: The Vermont Book Shop (Middlebury), Crow Bookshop (Burlington), Bartleby’s Books (Wilmington)

46. Virginia’s Top Bookstore: Shelf Life Books // Richmond, Virginia

Shelf Life Books (previously known as Chop Suey Books) features two floors of new and used books, along with Wonton, a beloved black-and-white cat often seen lounging in the store windows.

Other Virginia Bookstores We Love: One More Page Books (Arlington), BookPeople (Richmond), Blue Whale Books (Charlottesville)

47. Washington’s Best Bookstore: The Elliott Bay Book Company // Seattle, Washington

A cornerstone of the community since 1973 (though some still miss its original Pioneer Square location), Elliott Bay Books is a haven for discovering both acclaimed authors and emerging talents. New releases and hidden treasures are highlighted with handwritten staff recommendations, and the local history section is especially robust. The downstairs area hosts readings by local and visiting authors, while the cafe offers a cozy spot to relax or work (if you can snag a seat). For book lovers, it’s a must-visit in the Pacific Northwest.

More Washington Bookstores We Recommend: Third Place Books (Seattle), Auntie’s (Spokane), Darvill’s Bookstore (Eastsound, Orcas Island)

48. West Virginia’s Top Bookstore: Taylor Books // Charleston, West Virginia

It’s easy to lose yourself for hours at Taylor Books, Charleston’s hub for all things creative. Beyond its charming brick walls and extensive book collection, the store offers a cafe serving coffee and scones baked by owner Ann Saville, pottery classes, an art gallery, and weekend live music performances.

More West Virginia Bookstores We Recommend: Paradox Book Store (Wheeling)

49. Wisconsin’s Top Bookstore: Dotters Books // Eau Claire, Wisconsin

This woman-owned independent bookstore carefully curates its collection to highlight works by women, authors of color, and smaller presses. Every book is displayed face-out, ensuring none are overlooked. For those unable to visit, the store offers a monthly subscription service delivering the book club pick, a recommendation list, and a locally designed bookmark.

Other Wisconsin Bookstores We Love: Boswell Book Company (Milwaukee), Village Booksmith (Baraboo)

50. Wyoming’s Top Bookstore: Sidekicks Bookbar // Rock Springs, Wyoming

This vibrant, cozy spot in downtown Rock Springs is perfect for a relaxing evening, whether solo or with friends. Browse the floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with books, settle into one of the plush white couches, and enjoy wine and charcuterie. Partnering with Jackson Hole Winery, Sidekicks offers a curated selection of local wines alongside its collection of bestsellers.

More Wyoming Bookstores We Recommend: Jackson Hole Book Trader (Jackson)

By Colin Ainsworth, Erika Berlin, Michele Debczak, Shaunacy Ferro, Kat Long, Bess Lovejoy, Emily Petsko, Javier Reyes, Jake Rossen, and Jenn Wood.

This article was originally published in 2019; it has been updated for 2023.