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Discover New York City’s Literary Landmarks: 20 Beloved Bookstores

As a person who writes about classic books and bookstores, New York City is one of my favorite literary scenes. Not only is it filled with the most unique stores that have been featured in movies and television shows. It should be noted that New York City is considered one of the great literary capitals of the world. Many authors and publishers are located in the city of dreams. The city is known for setting countless works of fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction.  

Many of the neighborhoods in New York feature several bookstores and cafes that support artistic movements. In this article, I will explore the many bookstores in the great city that house numerous new releases, independent presses, and social media famous books. Since 2020, there has been a rise in upcoming authors who are mainly being supported by the many bookstores in New York City.

With the rise of modern media, it is no shock that most readers prefer online reads to paperbacks. It is no secret that there are many options for e-books such as Kindle, Wattpad, and Goodreads. These e-books cater to the needs of young adults, teens, and adults. However, for the classic bibliophiles who prefer their books the “old fashioned way” then here are the 20 Beloved Bookstores in New York City.

1. Strand Bookstore

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It is an independent bookstore that was founded in 1927 by Benjamin Bass. It is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. The store has a vast selection of new, used, and rare books. The store has over 2.5 million books spread out over 18 miles of shelves. The Strand Bookstore has been featured in films and television including Sex and the City and When Harry Met Sally. It should be noted that the store is a popular tourist destination. 

2. Gucci Wooster Bookstore

It was founded in 2018 by David Strettell, the founded of the renowned independent bookstore Dashwood Books. The store has 2,000 titles across subjects such as fashion, art, architecture, design, out-of-print titles, and rare books. Gucci Wooster Bookstore has an intimate reading space with an aesthetic echoing the Gucci brand. The store represents a fusion of luxury fashion and intellectual pursuits. 

3. McNally Jackson Bookstore

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It was founded in 2004 by Sarah McNally daughter of the founders of the Candian McNally Robinson Booksellers chain. There are five locations in New York City including Downtown Brooklyn, SoHo, Williamsburg, Seaport, and Rockefeller Center. The store has a wide range of used and new books across genres such as fiction, children’s literature, and non-fiction. Most of the locations offer coffee and other refreshments. McNally Jackson Bookstore hosts events such as book signings and author readings. 

4. Albertine Bookstore & Reading Room

The store is named after Albertine Simonet, a central character in Marcel Proust’s novel “In Search of Lost Time” They foster French-American cultural exchange through literature and intellectual dialogue. It has over 14,000 contemporary and classic titles in French and English from 30 French-speaking countries. They host regular author readings, discussions, and film screenings. Albertine Bookstore has an annual festival that brings together writers, activists for thought-provoking debates, and French-American thinkers.

5. Rizzoli Bookstore

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It was founded in 1964 by Angelo Rizzoli. It focuses on illustrated books and foreign language titles. The store has a curated selection of over 80,000 titles covering photography, art, design, architecture, and travel. It also hosts events such as book signings, author readings, and discussions with industry professionals. Rizzoli Bookstore provides a space for them to connect with readers and showcase their work. The store is a cherished New York institution that has been featured in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Sex and the City.

6. Three Lives & Company

It is an independent book that offers a curated selection and personalized experience. The store focuses on lesser-known authors and independent presses. Three Lives & Company creates an inviting and engaging atmosphere for browsing. They host literary events including book clubs and author readings. The store is known for supporting diverse voices and promoting the joy of reading. Three Lives & Company has a social media presence that helps them connect with their younger audience.

7. Berl’s Poetry Shop

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It is New York City’s only all-poetry bookstore. It was opened in 2018 by Farrah Field and Jared White, who are both poets and long-time advocates for small-press poetry. They exclusively focus on poetry books from publishers such as small presses, established publishers, and chapbooks.

The store hosts poetry readings and events that feature established and emerging poets. They also provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work. It should be noted that the store utilizes recycled materials and eco-friendly practices.

8. Books are Magic

It was founded in 2017 by bestselling author Emma Straub and her husband Michael Fusco-Straub. The store offers a curated selection across genres including new releases, classics, and children’s literature. The store also has a cafe that offers coffee, tea, and pastries. It hosts author readings, book signings, children’s story times, and book clubs. Books are Magic features hidden nooks for reading and gumball machines filled with poetry. The store is known for supporting diverse voices and promoting the joy of reading through engaging events.

9. East Village Books

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It was founded in 2003, by Michael O’ Beirne and Michael O’Connell. It specializes in scholarly and rare books across subjects such as art, photography, philosophy, literature, and science fiction. The store provides a valuable resource for students, researchers, and scholars.

East Village Books regularly updates its social media with interesting finds and new arrivals. The store is noted for having a warm and inviting atmosphere. It also has characterized wooden floors, the scent of old paper, and high shelves that are packed with books.

10. Center for Fiction

It was founded in 1820 as the Mercantile Library making it one of the oldest cultural institutions in New York City. The store changed its name to The Center for Fiction in 2005. It encouraged people to read and value fiction. The store is a community hub that hosts events including discussions, workshops, and author reading.

They also have an annual fiction award that recognizes outstanding works in different categories. Center for Fiction also has educational programs for students and educators. It should be noted that the store is a non-profit organization that relies on memberships, donations, and grants. It also has an entire section that holds a collection of nineteenth-century. 

11. Molasses Books

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It was opened in 2017 and was founded by Matt Winn, a book hawker at flea markets and festivals. The store has a curated selection of used and new books across genres such as fiction, non-fiction, and timeless classics. It should be noted that the store emphasizes poetry and local authors. The store also has a cozy bar serving coffee, beer, and cocktails. Molasses hosts events including open mic nights, book clubs, and author readings. 

12. Spoonbill & Sugartown Books

It was established in 1999 by Miles Bellamy and Jonas Kyle. It focuses on books related to art, architecture, and design. The store has been noted as a treasure trove for collectors who are seeking hard-to-find art publications. Spoonbill & Sugartown Books features a curated selection of literature, poetry, and children’s books.

The store regularly hosts events including author readings, book signings, and exhibitions. Aside from the events they have all year round, the store also participates in art fairs and events that help them connect with a wider audience. It should be noted that the store encourages critical thinking and engagement with art and design. It also has an online presence that showcases its inventory and upcoming events about the art world. 

13. Aeon Bookstore

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It was established in 1979 and has a well-established presence in the New York City literary scene. The store mainly focuses on occult books across topics such as magic and the paranormal. It also features titles on alternative art movements, practices, and unconventional aesthetics. Aeon Bookstore hosts events including lectures, discussions, and workshops that cover various topics.

The store is noted for providing a platform for exploring alternative perspectives and engaging with marginalized voices. It also greatly supports independent publishers and artists. Aoen bookstore is known for being a haven for artists, writers, and scholars.

14. Argosy Bookstore

It was founded in 1925 by Louis Cohen and it is noted for being New York City’s oldest independent bookstore. The store offers a vast selection of antiquarian and out-of-print across Americana, modern first editions, antique maps, and history of science. Argosy Bookstore is known for hosting all year-round events such as author readings, book signings, and book clubs that foster a vibrant literary community.

The store is a cherished destination for bibliophiles and collectors worldwide. Their events have been able to support the community and engagement between readers and writers. Its involvement in the community has been able to be one of the founding members of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America.

15. Bluestockings Bookstore, Cafe, and Activist Center

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It was established in 1999 as a feminist bookstore by volunteers. It is operated by a collective of volunteers and workers. The store carries over 6,000 titles encompassing feminism, queer, animal rights, political theory, social justice issues, and gender studies. The store also has a cafe that offers coffee, tea, and vegan snacks that support fair labor practices.

Bluestockings is known for hosting events including author readings, workshops, film screenings, open mic nights, community meetings, and training. The store also provides a platform for marginalized voices, collective action, and critical thought.

16. The Mysterious Bookshop

It was opened in 1979, making it one of the oldest mystery-specific bookstores in the United States. It was founded by Otto Penzler, a renowned editor and publisher in the mystery genre. The store has a vast selection of new and used books that cater to both casual readers and avid collectors.

It is dedicated to mystery fiction including detective fiction, crime novels, and suspense. It should be noted that the store has the largest Sherlock Holmes collection in the world. The Mysterious Bookshop regularly hosts events such as book signings, discussions, and author readings.

17. 192 Books

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It opened its doors in 2003, making it a well-established presence in the New York City literary scene. The store offers a general interest selection of books across genres such as fiction, non-fiction, and timeless classics. The store also has a selected section of rare and out-of-print books that cater to collectors. 192 books provide options for younger readers and families.

It should be noted that the store is a community hub that hosts group readings, and story times. The store has a website and social media channels that showcase its inventory, upcoming events, and news about the literary world.

18. Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks

It was founded in 1997 by Bonnie Slotnick. The store focuses on used and rare cookbooks across cuisines and historical periods including classic cookbooks, international cookbooks, and modern cookbooks. It is a cherished destination for both casual cooks and culinary professionals. The store is noted for offering regular events such as cooking demonstrations, and author talks.

Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks has been recognized for its unique collection and has been featured in numerous publications. It is also noted for its contribution to the culinary landscape through participating in book fairs and events. The store offers online shopping options that allow customers to shop in the comfort of their homes.

19. The Corner Bookstore

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It was opened in 1978 and it is a vital part of the Upper East Side community. The store offers a general interest selection of books across genres such as classics, history, biography, travel, and bestsellers. They also have an entire section for younger readers and families. The store hosts regular events such as book clubs, children’s story times, and author readings.

The Corner Bookstore features comfortable seating and well-organized shelves that encourage browsing and exploration. The store has a website and social media channels that showcase its inventory, upcoming events, and news about the literary world. 

20. Books of Wonder

It is the largest and oldest independent children’s bookstore. It was established in 1980 by Peter and Peggy Rennert. The store offers a vast curated selection of books for young readers. Some of the books the store offers include board books for infants, picture books, chapter books, and young adult novels.

Books of Wonder is a treasure trove for all parents looking for a vast collection of books that cater to children. It should be noted that the store encourages creativity, critical thinking, and exploration.

All in all, these bookstores have helped in growing the literary scene of New York. The city is known for being the hub of museums, art galleries, and libraries that bring back the movie-like reality that most people generally need after a long day. Bookstores in New York City offer a vast selection of workshops and book clubs that cater to book lovers of all ages.