Are you a avid book lover or just looking for a good deal? Check out these local bookstores that not only sell literature, but take advantage of atmosphere.
1. Baldwin’s Book Barn
Arguably the most interesting bookstore in the greater Philadelphia area, Baldwin’s Book Barn exudes antiquated charm from its stone walls. The bookstore has several stories of rare books, prints and maps. While it looks like an average colonial house from the outside, inside is reminiscent of lost treasures and remarkable finds galore. Visiting this gem should be top priority for rare book lovers, making sure to take the time to sit in a rocking chair in the secluded attic and soak in the atmosphere.
2. The Spiral Bookcase
Home to book-enthusiasts and indie-readers alike, The Spiral Bookcase truly has something for everyone. This quirky little bookshop is tucked into a Manayunk sidestreet, where it lures readers into its homely interior. Take a moment out of the busy college lifestyle to sit in a comfy chair with a good book. Don’t forget to say ‘hi’ to the resident book store cat, Calliope.
3. Showcase Comics
Self-advertised as Philadelphia’s Premier Store for Comics and Gaming, Showcase Comics is famous in its community for providing a cozy place for comic-lovers in the greater Philadelphia area. Its two locations in Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore hold large collections of comic books, graphic novels, board games, and more. While it’s not a traditional book store, Showcase Comics is definitely a place to check out.
4. Red Fox Book Shop
Inside the Red Fox Book Shop is a browser’s paradise, filled to the brim with new books each day. It is a completely community-based store, stocked by donations from the area and run by volunteers. The store’s incredibly low prices have funded the Tredyffrin free library since 2009 as a way to keep the library open as a resource to the community. Red Fox Book Shop is located in Paoli, attached to the Tredyffrin Township Library.
5. Cathy’s Half-Priced Books
Located in Havertown, PA, Cathy’s is known for its affordable literature and abundance of floor to ceiling bookcases. If you’re looking for something fun to read on a rainy day college budget, Cathy’s is the place for you!