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20 Unique Bookstores in Nashville, TN

Nashville, Tennessee is known for having a creative hub that attracts musicians, artists, and writers from across the country. The city is known for boasting a vibrant literary scene that is anchored by independent bookstores. It should be noted that the local bookstores in the area continue to thrive and expand through author events writing workshops, and children’s story times.

There are also a number of large bookshops that have cafes as well as nooks that allow readers and book lovers to relax while they enjoy their books. Through this article, I will explore the 20 Unique Bookstores that are known for being a big part of the literary community in Nashville. 

It should also be noted that the bookstores listed are known for being deeply embedded in the culture of Nashville. Whether you are a book enthusiast or a seasoned reader, the bookstores listed below are literary havens that allow you to connect with other readers.

1. The Bookshop

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It is an independent store that has a curated selection of new and used books as well as new releases, bestsellers, and classics. The Bookshop was founded in 2017 and has become a great part of the community. The store is known for hosting events such as author reading and book clubs. It has a special book club for each genre including the In Other Worlds Book Club which is a sci-fi and fantasy club, the Meet Cute Book Club for rom-coms, and the Unlikeable Femakes Book Club.

2. Rhino Booksellers

It is a neighborhood bookstore that is locally owned. It has operated since 2002 and since then it has specialized in gently used books and collectibles. Fred K, who is the owner of the store, has been a bookseller since 1973. He is passionate about music, books, and the Nashville community. The store is known for having a wide selection of books that range from classic literature to contemporary bestsellers. They also offer a curated selection of collectible first editions and vintage vinyl records. Rhino Booksellers hosts live music nights, author readings, and book clubs.

3. Novelette Booksellers

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It is a new bookstore that is located in East Nashville. It is known for being a cozy store that attracts book lovers of all kinds. Novelette booksellers have a wide selection of books across a number of genres such as fiction, graphic novels, non-fiction, and romance. The store has recently introduced a system where after purchasing a specific title, you are automatically enrolled in that month’s nook club.

4. Half Price Books

It is an amazing store that occupies the historic Hillwood House that was built in 1922. The store boasts over 100,000 new and used books in various genres. It also offers movies, music, comics, and games that cater to the diverse interests of bibliophiles. Half Price Books is famous for catering to the literary community through author readings, book signings, and discussion groups.

The store also participates in local events and initiatives that help Nashiville’s community. It should be noted that the store has a cafe where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a snack.

5. Defunct Bookstore

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It is a unique bookstore that has been operating since 2014. It is a literary legacy for having out-of-print books, poetry collections, forgotten cookbooks, and bizarre biographies. Defunct is known for supporting upcoming authors as well as independent presses. Through this, they are able to give a platform to voices that are often ignored. The store hosts lively events such as themed reading nights, author talks, and open mic nights that enable a community. In order for the store to have an eclectic atmosphere, it is decorated with DIY furniture and mismatched prints.

6. Books-A-Million

It was founded in1917 and is noted for being the second-largest bookstore chain in the U.S. It has over 260 stores across 32 states. Their stores offer a diverse selection that is beyond books including magazines, manga, toys, collectibles, technology, and gift items. Books-A-Million is a one-stop shop that caters to all your entertainment needs. The store hosts events such as author readings, book signings, and panel discussions that allow readers to meet their favorite writers.

7. Mostly Happy Books

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It is a bookstore that offers used books. It is noted as a hidden gem of the literary scene in Nashville. The shelves are arranged in a way that communicates to readers. Bibliophiles have commended the store for having a carefully curated selection of books.

8. Fairytales Bookstore

It is an enchanting store that is nestled in the heart of Nashville’s Five Points neighborhood. It is known for being a portal to endless imagination because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The store offers a wide selection from classic fairytales to contemporary gems as well as a collection of children’s books. It has everything for every reader. The shelves of the store are lined with educational toys, creative art supplies, and engaging games that ensure hours of imaginative play and learning.

It should be noted that the store greatly believes in nurturing the magic of childhood within the community. They usually host storytimes, author visits, and workshops that enable children to connect, learn, and grow.

9. Elder’s Bookstore

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The store was founded in 1930 by Charles Elder who was a Vanderbilt graduate. It is one of the oldest bookstores in continuous operation in Nashville. Their shelves are lined with antique maps, rare first editions, and contemporary bestsellers. Elder’s bookstore has been the champion of Southern literature because of its extensive collection of regional works as well as author events and book signings. The store is known for being more than a bookstore because of the many community events it hosts every year.

10. Parnassus Books

It was founded in 2011 by author Ann Patchett. The store is named after the legendary home of Muses, and goddesses of art, music, and literature. The name aligns well with the store’s purpose of fostering creativity and celebrating the written word. Parnassus has a diverse and curated selection of books that communicate with book lovers. The store hosts events such as author readings, book signings, and panel discussions. The store received the 2016 IndieBound Bookstore of the Year Award.

11. Recovery Books and Things

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It is a non-profit bookstore that sells books and other materials that are focused on addiction recovery, mental health, and trauma. The store offers gifts and apparel with inspirational messages. They also have a variety of resources and support services including 12-step program materials, trauma and healing resources as well as meditation and mindfulness resources.

12. St. Mary’s Bookstore and Church Supply

It is a store that caters to the Catholic community in Nashville. They have a vast selection of religious materials including bibles, prayer books, devotional materials, books on theology, saints and Catholic history, religious items, and Church supplies. The store is deeply rooted in the Nashville community. They are partners with a number of local organizations and schools, They also offer job opportunities for members of the community. St. Mary’s Bookstore serves as a place of support and guidance for the Catholic community.

13. Vanderbilt Bookstore

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It is a beloved institution on the campus of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. The store is a one-stop shop for everything including hoodies, hats, accessories, and T-shirts. It is a vibrant place that allows people to study, hang out, and connect with other students. They have comfy seating areas, a cafe, and even a computer lab for getting work done. Vanderbilt is known for advocating the work of local authors and publishers. The store provides a platform for Nashville’s literary talent and allows students to discover new voices.

14. Tenessee State University Bookstore

It is a hub of community events and academic resources. They offer a selection of new and used textbooks. They have a wide range of fiction, romance, and non-fiction books as well as captivating novels and insightful biographies. TSU has an extensive collection of T-shirts, hats, bags, and accessories that are adorned with the Tiger logo. The store hosts a number of events such as author readings, book signings, and workshops that create a dynamic space for study and faculty to connect and celebrate the literary landscape.

15. Rick’s Comic City

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The store has a vast selection of new and back-issue comics across various genres. They have the classic Superman tales and the latest Avengers adventures as well as hidden gems from smaller publishers. Rick’s Comic City has a diverse range of graphic novels, manga, and independent comics. Every Wednesday, the store is transformed into a hub of excitement with the arrival of the latest issues from Marvel, DC, Image, and Dark Horse.

16. Gospel Advocate Co

It is an institution steeped in history and dedicated to spreading the message of Christianity through publication. It serves as a voice for the Churches of Christ. The magazines that are issued feature articles, sermons, and commentaries on a wide range of topics related to Christian faith and practice. The store offers a number of resources including study guides, books, and online content that caters to the needs of their audience.

17. Lipscomb University Bookstore

It is a hub for university spirit, social gatherings, and diverse resources in the heart of Nashville. The store has a wide selection of new and used textbooks. It also has a good number of fiction and non-fiction books as well as informative biographies. Lipscomb has a comfortable seating area with computers for studying, a cafe, and a stage for small-scale performances. The store operates in collaboration with Tree of Life Bookstore, which is a respected Nashville Bookseller

18. Landmark Booksellers

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It is a mysterious store that has a diverse selection of new, used, and rare books. The store is known for specializing in Southern Americana, Tennessee history, and regional titles. It has an intimate atmosphere that helps readers to relax and feel at home. It hosts events such as poetry readings, and book signings. It is a favorite spot got bookworms because it offers a charming literary experience.

19. McKay’s Nashville

It is a treasure trove that has become a haven for bookworms. They have a vast selection of used books, CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, instruments, video games, and furniture. It is a community hub that hosts regular events such as author talks, trivia nights, themed sales, and book signings. The store is known for creating a vibrant atmosphere that caters to bibliophiles and bookworms. For music lovers, the store has an impressive vinyl selection. It has thousands of records from genres such as classic rock and indie bands.

20. The Oxford Comma

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It is a small independent store that focuses on used books and sometimes new books. It was opened in January 202 and has since been a loved part of the literary community of Nashville. The store has a curated selection of books across genres such as thrillers, horror, fiction, romance, fantasy, and children’s literature. They host events such as author readings, book clubs, and workshops for readers and writers.

All in all, Nashville has a great literary scene that supports upcoming writers as well as independent publishers. It is evident that the communities that are created by these bookstores are very beautiful and supportive. Aside from that, the bookstores listed above are loved for their ability to create activities that cater to readers, writers, and bibliophiles all at once.