Ready to add to that to-read pile? Head to these local bookstores

Check out these local booksellers that offer everything from new fiction to rare finds.

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It can be tempting to go for the quick, easy option and go online or to a big bookseller when you're on the hunt for a new read. But trust us when we say that taking the time to browse these independent bookstores is always worth it. Whether you're into sci-fi and fantasy, graphic novels, buzzy fiction, or hard-to-find titles, there's a local shop that can help you out. And if you're not sure what it is you're looking for? Well, that's okay too. Just ask your friendly neighborhood bookseller for a recommendation. 

Apotheosis Comics & Lounge: In addition to the wide selection of comics, graphic novels, and games Apotheosis Comics & Lounge has to offer, customers are also welcome to attend monthly events, including study tables, comedy shows, and educational lessons for kids. 3206 South Grand.

The Book House: Located in historic downtown Maplewood, The Book House carries books of all kinds, including selections of new, used, rare, and out-of-print titles. Also be on the lookout for two unique booksellers—black cats Zelda and Gatsby. 7352 Manchester.

Betty's Books: A St. Louis first, Betty’s Books is a one-of-a-kind, family-friendly specialty bookstore featuring comics, graphic novels, and manga for all ages. Owner Betty Brayer hopes to encourage all ages to immerse themselves in and learn more about graphic literature. 10 Summit.

Dunaway Books: Inside of an impressive architectural space, Dunaway Books shelves nearly 80,000 volumes for book lovers and antiquarians. The bookstore is often a good place to search for hard-to-find titles. 3111 S. Grand.

Eye See Me: Eye See Me makes it their mission to be a resource to parents, teachers, and schools in providing children’s books promoting positive images and stories about African-American culture and history. The store hopes to help bridge the cultural divide by improving African-American literacy in children and exposing others to African-American culture. 6951 Olive.

Hammonds Books: This Antique Row bookstore houses everything from $10 used books to collectible tomes worth hundreds of dollars. Hammonds is a treasure trove for those who love to dig through the stacks. 1939 Cherokee.

Left Bank Books: In 1969, a group of graduate students at Washington University set out to create a space where someone could find all kinds of literature. They opened Left Bank Books, the oldest and largest independently owned, full-line bookstore in St. Louis. Left Bank offers both a wide selection of new and used books and exciting events with local authors. 399 N. Euclid.

Main Street Books: Founded in May 1993 by Mary Fran Rash and originally housed in Collier Cottage, this St. Charles shop has since changed hands—and locations. But it's still a treasured part of the charming Main Street Historic District. Be sure to check Main Street's shop book club, which has been running since 1994. 307 S. Main.

The Noir Bookshop: Cherokee Street's "book lady," Ymani Wince, started her bookshop to create a space dedicated to Black experience. She carries both new and used copies of books by Black and brown authors that fit various themes. There's also an in-store "Little Noir Library" that offers two-week book checkouts. 2317 Cherokee.

The Novel Neighbor: This charming, independent bookstore is housed inside a community space decorated with work from local artists. To promote the value of reading, art, and gathering as a neighborhood, The Novel Neighbor offers their space for book clubs, classes, author events, and after-school activities. 7905 Big Bend.

Subterranean Books: This standby in The Loop has been around for more than 20 years, and in March 2021, Subterranean Books expanded to better serve their customers and offer a bigger selection. The store has a focus on independent bookstore best sellers, small presses, timeless fiction, and timely non-fiction. 6271 Delmar.

The Webster Groves Bookshop: The Webster Groves Bookshop promotes the idea that “a good bookstore is an integral part of any strong community.” After receiving an outpouring of support after closing in 2016, the bookstore reopened just down the road from its original location on Gore Avenue. 27 N. Gore.

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