Whether you’re a voracious or casual reader, these independent bookstores in Seattle are a must.
The last Saturday of every April, we celebrate Independent Bookstore Day. We’re just a week away! Booklovers from around the city get together and compete in a contest of who can visit and buy the most books from indie retailers in the least amount of time. This year, you’ll be able to be part of it in person or online.
These local indie bookstores are hidden gems in Seattle. Even if nowadays most of us resort to buying books online without human contact, nothing will ever be as comforting or as special as listening to the literary recommendations from the bibliophile sitting behind that enormous mahogany desk. These are our favorite ones:
1. Open Books
Where: 2414 N 45th St Seattle, WA 98103
What: Open Books is the sole poetry-only bookstore in Seattle. You’ll find new, used and out-of-print poetry books that you can enjoy reading while getting cozy on one of their couches.
Hours: Mon – Closed Tue-Sat 11am – 6pm Sun 12pm -4pm Curbside pickup: Mon-Sat
2. Ophelia Books
Where: 3504 Fremont Ave N Seattle, WA 98103
What: Ophelia has been open in Seattle for over 20 years, selling used books of all genres. Located in the heart of Fremont, this bookstore is definitely a diamond in the rough. You’ll need at least an hour to go through its broad selection.
Hours: 12pm -7pm daily
3. Left Bank Book Collective
Where: 92 Pike St Seattle, WA 98101
What: At walking distance from Pike Place Market you can find Left Bank Book Collective. A small bookstore that has a selection of over 10,000 books divided into 70 sections. They specialize in independent, radical and small-press titles.
Hours: Wed-Sun 12pm-5pm
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4. Magus Books
Where: 1408 NE 42nd St. Seattle, WA 98105
What: Located in Seattle’s vibrant University District, Magus is the spot to choose if you’re looking to sell your book collection or find the perfect unexpected gift. You can choose between a broad product range that goes from antique books to reading accessories and essential oils.
Hours: Sun – Thurs 10am-8pm Fri-Sat 10am-10pm
5. Mercer Street Books
Where: 7 Mercer St Seattle, WA 98109
What: The warm service of staff at Mercer Street Books and their quaint decoration will make you feel right at home. Walking through the aisles is almost an adventure and you’ll always be able to take a literary treasure with you at great prices!
Hours: Mon-Tue Closed Wed-Sat 12pm-8pm Sun 11am-7pm
6. Secret Garden Books
Where: 2214 NW Market St Seattle, WA 98107
What: It’s pet friendly! I repeat, you can browse through books in the company of your pup. With more than 40 years of experience in the indie bookstore industry, The Secret Garden is a safe bet when looking for new, used and antique children’s books.
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-8pm Sat 10am-7pm Sun 11am-5pm
Featured image by Free Photos from Pixabay.