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 or gift for your favorite bookworm. 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 OK, too. Just ask your friendly neighborhood bookseller for a recommendation.
Anchovy Book Co.: This pocked-sized slice of Cherokee Street is full of stunning cookbooks covering a wide range of techniques and cuisines. Need a guide through all the options? Check out Hot Dish!, the store’s potluck-style cookbook club. 2619 1/2 Cherokee.
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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. 8772 Big Bend.
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.
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.
Leviathan Bookstore: After impressing book-lovers with their offerings as a pop-up shop, Leviathan has found a permanent home on South Grand, where they host author events, Unseen STL History talks, and event partied to honor Pynchon. 3211 S. Grand.
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 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. The shop also curates a collection of books available for purchase at The Lobby by Union Studio (5127 Delmar). 7905 Big Bend.
Open Door Romance: The Novel Neighbor’s all-romance sister store is a bright, cozy space dedicated to all things love. Need some guidance for your next romance read? Join any of the shop’s thriving themed book clubs, which include groups for fans of contemporary, historical, and queer romances.
Read A Book STL: This Dutchtown secondhand bookstore is dedicated to “salvaging books and keeping knowledge accessible and affordable for all.” While used books are their main focus, the shop carries limited new titles and is also able to take special orders.
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.
