New York City is home to some of the best bookstores in the world. Whether you’re looking for a new release, a classic, or a rare find, there’s a bookstore for you. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of some of our favorite bookstores.
Albertine (Upper East Side)
Albertine Books is one of the most hidden bookstores in NYC. It is located within the French Embassy and can easily be missed if someone does not know to look for it. This bookstore is devoted specifically to French literature but carries some English titles as well. The store is on the smaller side, which makes their vast selection of 14,000 books (spanning two floors) all the more impressive. It would not take too long to peruse the store, but the remarkable hand-painted celestial ceiling on the second floor is worth the visit alone. Albertine Books is a must-see for anyone with even the faintest interest in beautiful bookstores or in New York. The store can be a bit overwhelming for anyone who is not familiar with the French language, but it is still worth the visit.
The strong sense of community is what sets this bookstore apart from others. There is no shortage of interesting events or guest speakers at the store (you can check out upcoming events here). Today, Greenlight Bookstore is the first place that comes to mind whenever I need to attend an author discussion, book signing or simply hear an interesting topic analyzed via panel.
Greenlight Bookstore (Fort Greene, Brooklyn)
Greenlight Bookstore is an independent bookstore located in Brooklyn. The store was founded in 2009 in a neighborhood that was in need of a quality independent bookstore. The founders of the store wanted it to become a community hub for the neighborhood, and they could not have anticipated how well-received the space would eventually become.
As for the book selection, the store is well-curated and the knowledgeable staff are always happy to point you in the right direction or offer a personalized recommendation. This is the very reason why I prefer shopping at a friendly neighborhood bookstore as opposed to buying online.
Greenlight Bookstore is a true reflection of the beautiful partnership between a welcoming community and a small business. You will always leave with a smile on your face.
The Corner Bookstore (Upper East Side)
Ah, the Corner Bookstore. The Upper East Side of New York’s most beloved and famous bookstore there is. This is a place that I visit often and I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me each time I step inside. The shelves are stocked with an impressive selection of books and there is something for everyone. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
I have been visiting the Corner Bookstore since I was a child and it has always been a special spot to me. With its old-fashioned charm and eclectic choice, it’s a venue that I can always count on to inspire me. From the vintage posters on the walls to the cozy reading nooks, that encourages creativity and exploration.
The Corner Bookstore is also well known for its impressive collection of books. The bookstore’s shelves are full of classic and contemporary titles from a variety of genres. From the latest bestsellers to rare and out-of-print titles, there is something for everyone. I’m always amazed at the options and I often find myself browsing for hours.
The Corner Bookstore also offers an array of events and activities. From book signings and author talks to storytelling hours and book clubs, there is always something going on. I love attending the events and I always come away feeling inspired and energized.
If you’re looking for a great site to explore and discover your next book, then the Corner Bookstore is the place for you. This beloved bookstore is a true NYC gem and I highly recommend it.
Rizzoli Books (Flatiron)
When it comes to finding the coolest bookstore in Manhattan, Rizzoli Books (Flatiron) is the spotto go. Located in the heart of the Flatiron District, this bookstore has been a staple for book lovers for decades. From its selection of rare books to its unique choices of both new and used books, Rizzoli Books (Flatiron) has something for everyone.
I can’t begin to express how much I love Rizzoli Books. As a lifelong bibliophile, I’ve been visiting this store since I was a young adult and I’m still a regular customer. The store is split into two parts, with the limited and used books on the left and the new books on the right. It’s easy to get lost browsing the shelves, as there is so much to see.
When it comes to the selection of rare books, Rizzoli Books (Flatiron) is hands-down the best. They have an incredible collection of scarce books, from first editions of classic works to signed copies of modern books. I’ve only ever seen such a collection of rare books in one place here.
The selection of new books is also very impressive. They always have the newest releases, as well as some of the bestsellers. I’ve been able to notice books that I’ve been searching for everywhere else. They also have a great choices of signed copies of books, which are always very popular.
The store is also very well organized. The staff is always helpful and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to assist you in finding the book you’re looking for. They also have a great selection of gift items such as postcards, mugs, and other items.
Overall, Rizzoli Books (Flatiron) is an amazing bookstore. Whether you’re looking for rare books, new books, or just browsing, you’ll detect something here. With its great selection, helpful employees, and unique atmosphere, it’s easy to see why this bookstore is one of the most famous in New York.
Strand Bookstore
Ah, Strand Bookstore in New York City—the best bookstore in town. It’s one of my favorite spot to go for a dose of literary nostalgia. From its crowded hallways to its worn-in books, Strand Bookstore offers a unique shopping experience that I’ve come to love.
Strand Bookstore has been around for over 90 years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s the largest used and new bookstore in the city, with 18 miles of bookshelves and over 2.5 million books. And while they specialize in new and used books, they also have a great selection of DVDs, CDs, and even vinyl records.
The atmosphere of Strand Bookstore is like no other. It’s a maze of bookshelves, and it’s easy to get lost. It’s crowded, it’s noisy, and it’s chaotic, but it’s also warm and inviting. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and the collection is unbeatable.
When I’m at Strand Bookstore, I like to take my time and peruse the shelves. I love to look through the used books, with the yellowed pages and the worn-in covers. It’s like taking a step back in time, and it’s always exciting to discover something old and forgotten.
I also love the events that Strand Bookstore hosts. They offer book readings and signings, author talks, and even film screenings. It’s a great way to meet authors, discover new books, and be part of the literary community in NYC.
Overall, Strand Bookstore is a must-visit for any book lover. From its vast selection to its unique atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. So if you’re looking for a great bookstore in New York City, be sure to check out Strand Bookstore. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Three Lives & Company
Ahh, Three Lives & Company, I am constantly in awe of the sheer beauty of this book store. From its cozy shelves lined with books of all shapes and sizes to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this bookstore has a special charm that can’t be found anywhere else.
I recently took a trip to Three Lives & Company, and I was so impressed. Not only does it have an amazing selection of books, but it also has a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect book for your needs. They also have an incredible picks of magazines, art, and gifts, so you can obtain something for everyone.
The store is located in the heart of Greenwich Village and is a great area to explore. When you enter, you can’t help but feel like you’ve stepped into a different world. The walls are lined with bookshelves, and the floor is dotted with comfy chairs and tables. It’s the perfect place to curl up with a good book and relax.
The personnel is incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to help you discover what you’re looking for. They have a great selection of books and always have a few special finds that you won’t detect anywhere else. I’ve picked up some amazing books on my visits to Three Lives & Company, and I can’t wait to go back and find more.
If you’re ever in NYC, you should definitely pay Three Lives & Company a visit. Not only is it one of the coolest bookstores in town, but it’s also one of the most unique and charming spots in the city. Whether you’re looking for a good book to read or a special gift for someone, you’ll buy it at Three Lives & Company.
Housing Works Bookstore Cafe
If you’re looking for the best bookstore in New York City, then you have to check out Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. This spot is a true gem, and it’s a great place to shop for books, meet up with friends, or just relax with a good read.
The bookstore itself has a great selection of genres, from fiction to non-fiction to children’s books. Whether you’re looking for something to read on the subway ride home or a gift for someone special, you’ll find something here. They also carry a great choice of magazines and newspapers, so you can stay up to date on the latest news.
The cafe is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat while you peruse the shelves. The menu is always changing, but you can usually discover an array of sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts. Plus, they serve up delicious coffee and tea drinks to help you get through your afternoon.
The atmosphere of Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is one of its best features. The space is filled with comfy chairs and couches, perfect for curling up with a book. There’s also plenty of natural light, so you can read in a comfortable, inviting environment.
One of the things that makes Housing Works Bookstore Cafe so special is that it is a nonprofit organization. All of the proceeds from their sales go to helping people living with HIV/AIDS. So when you shop here, you’re not only getting great books, you’re also helping out a great cause.
If you’re looking for the cutest bookstore in NYC, then you should definitely check out Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. With its great selection of books and magazines, cozy atmosphere, and delicious cafe menu, it’s the perfect location to find what you’re looking for and help out a great cause at the same time.
McNally Jackson Books
McNally Jackson Books is an independent bookstore located in New York City. It’s been around since 2004, but has been a favorite spot for book lovers since its opening. It’s known for its wide selection of books, its knowledgeable staff, and its cozy atmosphere.
The store is located in SoHo, which is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city. It’s one of the few bookstores that still survives in the age of e-books and online shopping. When you walk into the store, you can tell that the owners take great pride in the shop. The bookshelves are lined with beautiful hardcover and paperback books, and the walls are covered with posters and artwork. It’s the perfect place to browse and find something special.
The workers at McNally Jackson Books is incredibly knowledgeable. They can recommend books based on your interests, and they always have suggestions for what you should read next. They are passionate about books, and they always make sure that you have a great experience in the store.
In addition to the books, McNally Jackson Books also offers a variety of other items. They have a wide array of magazines, newspapers, and journals. They also have a great selection of cards, stationery, and gifts. The store also has regular events such as book signings, author talks, and book clubs.
McNally Jackson Books is one of the cutest and best bookstores in NYC . It’s the perfect place to find new books, catch up with friends, and just relax. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always eager to help. If you’re looking for a great bookstore in the city, McNally Jackson Books is the place to go.
The Mysterious Bookshop
This unique bookstore has been around since 1979 and is located in the heart of Manhattan. It is one of the cutest bookstores in the city and is a great place to find rare and out-of-print books. From vintage detective novels to classic science fiction and fantasy, The Mysterious Bookshop has something for everyone.
The store itself is a sight to behold. It is decorated with vintage posters, photographs and other memorabilia from the world of mystery and suspense. The walls are lined with bookshelves filled with books from all genres and eras. The employees are knowledgeable and friendly, and they will help you discover whatever it is you’re looking for.
The Mysterious Bookshop also hosts a variety of events and readings throughout the year. They bring in authors from all over the world to discuss their work and answer questions from the audience. This makes it a great location to meet and interact with authors and discuss their work.
The Mysterious Bookshop is a great place to find books that you won’t find anywhere else. It is a unique and fascinating venue to explore and discover something new. So if you’re in New York City and you’re looking for something a little different, make sure to check out The Mysterious Bookshop.
Argosy Book Store
If you’re looking for the best bookstore in New York, you’ll want to head on over to Argosy Book Store. This spotis a real gem for book lovers!
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Argosy Book Store is a must-visit spot for any book enthusiast visiting the city. Established in 1925, Argosy is one of the oldest and largest used and rare bookstores in the world. It’s a truly unique experience—you can find everything from rare first editions to signed copies to out-of-print titles.
When you enter the store, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff, who are always willing to answer any questions you may have. They’ll be more than happy to help you find the perfect book for your reading needs.
The store has an impressive selection of books, ranging from the latest bestsellers to classic literature and scarce finds. You’ll discover books from all genres, from fiction to nonfiction, and from all eras, from the Victorian era to the 21st century. You’ll also find a great choosing of maps, prints, and artwork.
Argosy Book Store is also known for its expansive selection of out-of-print and singular books. If you’re looking for a hard-to-find title, you’ll likely find it here. And if you’re looking to add to your collection of rare books, this is the place to go.
The store doesn’t just offer books—it also offers a variety of other items, such as postcards, prints, and ephemera. You’ll find an amazing choices of vintage items from all over the world.
If you’re looking for a great place to discover books in NYC , Argosy Book Store is the place to go. This incredible bookstore is a must-visit spot for any book lover. Whether you’re looking for the latest bestsellers or singular books, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. So, head on over to Argosy for a truly unique book-shopping experience!
The Astoria Bookshop
Ahh, NYC . The city of dreams, the city of lights, the city of books! I’m sure all of us bookworms out there would agree that New York has some of the best bookstores around. And one of the best is the Astoria Bookshop.
Located in the heart of Astoria, Queens, the Astoria Bookshop is the largest independent bookstore in Queens. With over 15,000 titles, the Astoria Bookshop has something for everyone. From children’s books to adult fiction and non-fiction, you’ll find it all here.
The bookstore is well-organized and neatly laid out, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. The shelves are lined with books in all genres, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They’re always happy to help you find what you’re looking for and will even recommend books based on your interests.
The Astoria Bookshop also has a wonderful selection of gifts and cards. They have a great collection of art prints, notebooks, journals, and stationery. They also have a great choices of book-related items such as bookmarks, booklights, and even book-themed jewelry.
The best part about the Astoria Bookshop is the events. The bookstore hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as author readings, book clubs, and book signings. They also host story time for children, giving them the opportunity to explore the wonderful world of books.
If you’re ever in the NYC area, the Astoria Bookshop is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a new book to read or just want to browse the shelves, this bookstore has something for everyone. Stop in and explore the wonderful world of books.
Conclusion
My guide to New York City’s best bookstores has come to an end! I hope you found the information useful and I have given you a few ideas of where to go and what to look for. Bookstores in NYC are a great place to find books, as well as get lost in a world of ideas and stories.
From the sprawling Strand and its 18 miles of books, to the cozy and curated McNally Jackson, to the iconic and historic Argosy, there is something for everyone and every budget. These bookstores are more than just a place to buy books, they are havens of knowledge, culture, and creativity.
So, if you’re ever in New York City, take some time to explore the amazing bookstores it has to offer. You’ll be glad you did!
