We don’t know about you, but our reading list is about a mile long. We’ve definitely been using some of our extra time to check out new books…and we love supporting our local book stores while we do it! Here’s a (pretty long) list of some of the book stores in and around Pittsburgh to feed your reading habit.
Amazing Books & Records (Downtown, Squirrel Hill)
Between both Amazing Books & Records stores, back rooms, and online inventory, they have close to 60,000 books! They also have thousands of used books available. We’re excited about their Lit Love Custom Concierge Surprise Package (say that 3 times fast!) – get all the details on their site.
Beyond Bedtime Books (Dormont)
Beyond Bedtime Books sells a variety of new and gently used books plus rare and out-of-print books – or they can order the book you’re looking for if it’s not in stock. They also have an amazing children’s room. AND they sell unique greeting cards, so it’s a one-stop-shop!
The Big Idea Bookstore and Cafe (Bloomfield)
The Big Idea Bookstore is an antiprofit bookstore and cafe that’s been open since 2001. Their mission is to promote their values through books, events, and conversations. Because of Coronavirus, they’ve temporarily closed – and could use your support. Read more about their mission on their site and support them with a donation if it’s up your alley.
Caliban Book Shop (Oakland)
Request a browsing appointment to check out the books, autographs, photographs, printed material, and original artwork at Caliban Book Shop. Don’t forget to browse their basement inventory of paperback fiction, mysteries, and science fiction!
City Books (North Side)
City Books is currently open Wednesdays and Saturdays, or by appointment (but check their site for the latest info!). They also have a few ways you can support them during this uncertain time – get all the details on their site.
City of Asylum Bookstore at Alphabet City (North Side)
City of Asylum specializes in works in translation and world literature. They also create a thriving community for writers, readers, and neighbors. And, they provide sanctuary to endangered literary writers to make sure their voices are not silenced. Make an appointment to visit, or place your order online.
Classic Lines (Squirrel Hill)
Classic Lines is the place to go in Squirrel Hill if you’re looking for new books, jigsaw puzzles, stationary, or other book-lover-paraphernalia. And, if you’re looking for a job, they’re currently hiring!
Copacetic Comics (Polish Hill)
If you thought comics were just for kids, think again. Comics are a form of art, in addition to literature. And Copacetic Comics is *overflowing* with new arrivals. It’s in the same building as Kaibur Coffee – and we think that’s a perfect setup.
Few of a Kind Store (Bloomfield)
Few of a Kind isn’t just a gift shop, it’s a not for profit organization dedicated to education, supporting local women, and providing a safe space. They sell products created by local women entrepreneurs, and they support the local Muslim Women-owned shelter that has served approximately 200 needy families from around the globe. Check out their inventory and read more about what their doing on their site.
Kards Unlimited (Shadyside)
Kards Unlimited is the perfect stop if you’re looking for ways to stay entertained – like books, games, and puzzles – and maybe pick up a few gifts, too. From sassy to fun, political to yinzer, there is something for everyone. They’re also amplifying Black voices through children’s and adult books – just check out their site.
Mystery Lovers Bookshop (Oakmont)
If you love mystery fiction, you need to get to Mystery Lovers Bookshop. They’re the third largest mystery book store in the US, specializing in crime and mystery fiction. HELLO, YES PLEASE! They’ve also begun to expand their general interest and children’s book sections, and host a variety of events when they’re able. Keep an eye out for their book clubs to start back up!
Penguin Bookshop (Sewickley)
Penguin Bookshop has been selling books in Sewickley for over 90 years, although it has switched ownership and moved locations several times (get the full history on their site). They offer an extensive collection of new fiction and non-fiction for all ages.
Riverstone Books (McCandless)
After Borders closed years ago, book lovers in the North Hills cheered when Riverstone Books opened. They host a well-curated selection of literary and popular fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books, in addition to a variety of gift items. They place value on talking with a fellow reader when you’re looking for a book – whether it’s for yourself or someone else.
Shadyside Books (Shadyside)
Shadyside Books is located on the second floor of the Caboodle Trading Post. They sell a range of used books, with over 5,000 books in stock! Their storefront is currently closed, but check back on their site for details on when they reopen – or shop online!
Spark Books (Aspinwall)
Spark Books is a children’s book and toy store – with everything from board books for babies to young adult novels. They believe early literacy is imperative for every child and want to help build the personal libraries for the kids in your life. Our inner child is totally wishing we had been able to go here as a kid to pick out a book and a toy!
The Tiny Bookstore (Ross Township)
The Tiny Bookstore is…well, a very small book store! Because of that, they might not have the book you’re looking for, but they’re pretty sure you’ll walk out with a book you love that you didn’t know existed. And, they can order that specific book you want, just ask!
White Whale Bookstore (Bloomfield)
At White Whale, they’re passionate about books. Their selection includes contemporary and literary fiction and nonfiction, poetry, history, philosophy, local authors, independent presses, children’s books…we could go on. They also host events when they’re able – check back on their website for the latest information.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
