There’s something magical about walking into a bookstore in New York City. Whether you’re after rare first editions, the latest bestsellers, or a cozy reading nook to escape the city buzz, NYC delivers. In 2025, these 15 iconic bookstores still stand out—not just for their shelves, but for the stories, history, and community they hold.
1. The Strand Bookstore – Union Square
If you only visit one bookstore in NYC, make it The Strand. Founded in 1927, this literary landmark boasts “18 miles of books”—a claim you’ll believe as soon as you step inside. From floor-to-ceiling shelves of classics to tables stacked with new releases, The Strand is a paradise for every type of reader.
Massive selection of over 2.5 million books
Rare book room with signed first editions
Affordable tote bags and literary gifts
Frequent author signings and events
- Location: 828 Broadway, Manhattan
- Visit The Strand Bookstore
- Tip: Head upstairs to the rare book room for a treasure hunt—it feels like stepping back in time.
2. Books Are Magic – Brooklyn
Bright, welcoming, and packed with personality, Books Are Magic has become a community hub in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. Opened in 2017 by author Emma Straub, this independent bookstore is known for its thoughtful curation and colorful Instagram-famous mural.
Diverse selection of contemporary fiction & nonfiction
Weekly storytime for kids
Engaging book club events and readings
Friendly, knowledgeable staff
- Location: 225 Smith Street, Brooklyn
- Explore Books Are Magic
- Tip: Snap a photo outside at the “Books Are Magic” mural—it’s a must for your NYC book lover’s photo album.
3. Housing Works Bookstore Cafe – SoHo
A hidden gem in the heart of SoHo, Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is more than just a bookstore—it’s a nonprofit supporting people living with HIV/AIDS and those experiencing homelessness. Every purchase here supports a good cause.
Affordable secondhand books, records, and movies
Charming two-level space with cozy seating
Delicious coffee and pastries from the in-house café
Regular readings, concerts, and charity events
- Location: 126 Crosby Street, Manhattan
- Tip: Visit during one of their big seasonal book sales for serious bargains.
4. McNally Jackson Books – Multiple Locations
Known for its intellectual charm and carefully curated selection, McNally Jackson is a favorite among writers, academics, and serious readers. Their flagship location in Seaport District is a bright, airy space perfect for browsing or working with a coffee in hand.
Expertly chosen literary fiction & poetry
Excellent selection of international literature
In-house café with great lattes
Monthly events and writing workshops
- Flagship Location: 4 Fulton Street, Manhattan
- Check McNally Jackson
- Tip: Ask about their print-on-demand book machine—you can get your own manuscript printed while you browse.
5. Albertine – Upper East Side
Nestled inside the historic Payne Whitney Mansion, Albertine is New York’s only French-language bookstore, offering more than 14,000 titles in both French and English. It’s an absolute dream for Francophiles, complete with a celestial-themed reading room.
Beautiful 2-story shop with ornate design
Huge selection of French literature, philosophy, and art books
Free cultural events, author talks, and debates
Peaceful escape from the city crowds
- Location: 972 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
- Discover Albertine
- Tip: Even if you don’t read French, the space alone is worth a visit—it’s one of NYC’s most beautiful bookstores.
6. Rizzoli Bookstore – NoMad
An elegant, old-world-style bookstore, Rizzoli is a paradise for lovers of art, photography, fashion, and architecture books. With tall ceilings, chandeliers, and shelves lined with beautifully bound editions, it feels like stepping into a European literary salon.
World-class selection of art, fashion & design books
Rare and imported editions from Italy and beyond
Elegant store design with carved wood shelves
Frequent art & culture events
- Location: 1133 Broadway, Manhattan
- Visit Rizzoli Bookstore
- Tip: This is the perfect spot to find a coffee table book that doubles as home décor.
7. Three Lives & Company – West Village
Small but legendary, Three Lives & Company is the definition of a neighborhood bookstore. The staff knows their inventory inside out, and the intimate space creates an atmosphere where every book feels personally recommended.
Expertly curated literary fiction & essays
Friendly, passionate staff
Historic location since 1978
Cozy West Village vibe
- Location: 154 W 10th Street, Manhattan
- Tip: Chat with the staff—they’ll give you spot-on book suggestions based on your tastes.
8. Mast Books – East Village
For art lovers and design aficionados, Mast Books is a dream. Specializing in photography, rare art monographs, and vintage fashion books, this minimalist shop is both a gallery and a bookstore.
Unique focus on visual culture
Rare and collectible photography books
Chic, minimalist space with artful displays
Vintage magazines and zines
- Location: 72 Avenue A, Manhattan
- Explore Mast Books
- Tip: Keep an eye on their Instagram for new arrivals—rare titles disappear quickly.
9. Greenlight Bookstore – Brooklyn
Located in Fort Greene and Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Greenlight Bookstore is a Brooklyn institution. It’s known for a wide selection of titles, inclusive literary events, and deep connections to the local community.
- Diverse range of fiction, nonfiction & children’s books
- Frequent author readings and panel discussions
- Excellent local author section
- Staff picks that never disappoint
- Main Location: 686 Fulton Street, Brooklyn
- Visit Greenlight Bookstore
- Tip: If you can, visit during a literary festival—Greenlight is always heavily involved.
10. Bluestockings Cooperative Bookstore – Lower East Side
Bluestockings is more than a bookstore—it’s a feminist, queer, and activist community space offering radical literature, zines, and socially conscious books you won’t find in mainstream shops. It’s also worker-owned, making every purchase a direct support for their mission.
Wide selection of progressive and activist literature
Community events, workshops, and book clubs
Zine and indie publishing section
Cozy café with ethically sourced drinks
- Location: 116 Suffolk Street, Manhattan
- Check Bluestockings Cooperative
- Tip: Grab a drink from the café and join a discussion group—it’s a welcoming, inclusive environment.
11. Book Culture – Upper West Side
A neighborhood favorite for Columbia University students and locals alike, Book Culture offers an excellent academic selection alongside general fiction, children’s books, and stationery.
Strong selection of academic and scholarly works
Beautiful children’s section
Seasonal sales with deep discounts
Locally owned and community-focused
- Location: 2915 Broadway, Manhattan
- Visit Book Culture
- Tip: Don’t miss the clearance tables out front—you can score great books for just a few dollars.
12. Kinokuniya New York – Midtown Manhattan
For lovers of Japanese literature, manga, anime, and stationery, Kinokuniya is a must-visit. Spread over three floors, it’s a treasure trove of books in English and Japanese.
Huge manga and graphic novel section
Japanese stationery and art supplies
Imported magazines and design books
In-house café serving matcha drinks and Japanese snacks
- Location: 1073 Avenue of the Americas, Manhattan
- Explore Kinokuniya NYC
- Tip: Head to the lower floor for rare and limited-edition manga box sets.
13. Molasses Books – Bushwick, Brooklyn
This cozy bookstore-bar hybrid is a Bushwick favorite. Molasses Books sells used books, serves beer and coffee, and often hosts poetry readings and DJ nights.
Affordable used books in all genres
Laid-back, artsy vibe
Great for meeting fellow creatives
Drinks and books in one spot
- Location: 770 Hart Street, Brooklyn
- Tip: Their rotating selection means every visit feels like a treasure hunt.
14. Argosy Book Store – Midtown Manhattan
Founded in 1925, Argosy is NYC’s oldest independent bookstore. Specializing in rare books, maps, and prints, it’s a haven for collectors and history lovers.
Rare first editions and antique maps
Historic, old-school atmosphere
Knowledgeable staff who know the art of book collecting
Vintage posters and ephemera
- Location: 116 E 59th Street, Manhattan
- Visit Argosy Book Store
- Tip: Even if you’re not buying, browsing here feels like stepping into literary history.
15. Unnameable Books – Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
A quirky indie bookstore with both new and used books, Unnameable Books is beloved for its eclectic selection and unpretentious vibe.
Excellent poetry section
Affordable used books mixed with new titles
Community events and readings
Outdoor racks with budget finds
- Location: 615 Vanderbilt Avenue, Brooklyn
- Tip: Bring cash if you want to score the $1 outdoor rack deals.
Final Thoughts
New York City’s bookstores aren’t just shops—they’re cultural landmarks, community spaces, and safe havens for readers. Whether you’re hunting for a rare edition, a cozy reading corner, or a lively literary event, these five iconic spots will keep your love for books alive in 2025.
FAQ
Q1: Are NYC bookstores open late?
Most close around 8–9 PM, but check individual schedules.
Q2: Can I order books online from these stores?
Yes—most offer online ordering and nationwide shipping.
Q3: Which bookstore is best for rare books?
The Strand’s Rare Book Room is the top pick for collectors.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
