Our Favorite Brooklyn Bookstores
Embark on a captivating exploration of Brooklyn’s vibrant literary scene to kick off Book Lovers Day. From well-established gems to newly blossoming additions, these shops are more than just places to purchase books—they’re vibrant community hubs where ideas flow and connections flourish. Join us on this journey where every page turned is a step closer to discovering the heart and soul of Brooklyn book lovers.
Community Bookstore
Park Slope
Photo courtesy of Community Bookstore
A Park Slope treasure since 1971, Community Bookstore offers a curated collection that speaks to every reader. They host literary events that include appearances by legendary authors and a book club, and true to its namesake the store acts as a gathering space for readers and community members to mingle. If you’ve frequented this shop over the years, you’ve probably noticed the quaint backyard garden and comforting animal presence that has included cats, dogs, rabbits, a dragon lizard and the wise John Turturtle. Whether we’re showing homes for sale in Park Slope or running errands, we always find a moment to lose ourselves in its pages.
Community Bookstore
143 7th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Terrace Books
Windsor Terrace
Photo courtesy of Terrace Books
A literary sibling of Community Bookstore, Terrace Books emerged in 2013, a haven where a helpful team conjures book recommendations like magic. If your desired read can’t be found in the store, fear not—the staff just might be able to source if from its sister shop, ensuring no book out of reach. They even share a virtual realm where you can order books, gift cards and subscriptions with a few simple clicks.
Terrace Books
242 Prospect Park West
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Adanne Bookshop
Dumbo
Photo courtesy of Adanne
Unveiled in June 2021, Adanne (pronounced ah-dahn-eh), a captivating Black-owned bookstore, sprung forth thanks to NYC native and former English teacher Darlene Okpo. With a fervor for celebrating authors of color, Adanne isn’t just a bookstore, it’s a hip haven pulsating with life. Join creative community events like painting James Baldwin, music bingo or immersive book clubs. In addition to a rich selection of books, discover totes, t-shirts, body oil and letterpress journals. Dive into Adanne’s world through their website, where a treasure trove of literary gems awaits.
Adanne Bookshop
53 Bridge Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Powerhouse
Dumbo, Park Slope, Industry City
Photo courtesy of Powerhouse Books
Powerhouse stands as a lauded publisher specializing in photography, fine art, fashion and pop culture books. At their Dumbo site, the Powerhouse Arena comes alive with exhibitions, readings and creative events. Peruse the captivating array of art and design books, fiction, nonfiction, cooking, kids’ reads and unique gifts, all within an expansive space adorned with high ceilings and glass walls that transform window shopping into an enchanting experience. Journey to their Park Slope haven, where a mini gallery, reading club and diverse book genres await. And in Industry City, more books beckon alongside a subterranean photo gallery and delightful coffee and spirits cafe. For updates on new releases and events, explore their website.
Powerhouse Dumbo
28 Adams Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Park Slope Location
1111 8th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Industry City
220 36th St. Building #2
Brooklyn, NY 11232
Books Are Magic
Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights
Photo by Pel
Perhaps the iconic Books Are Magic mural has caught your eye as you wander along Smith Street or scroll through Instagram. Yet, the true enchantment of this inclusive family-owned bookstore awaits within its doors where you’ll find staff recommendations via handwritten notes, a book section featuring local authors, events, gifts and a warm, welcoming team. Their second location in Brooklyn Heights mirrors this enchantment, brimming with order and staff favorites. Visit their website where you can immerse yourself in events, shop for books and explore some of those staff picks that continue to capture our hearts.
Books Are Magic Cobble Hill
225 Smith Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Brooklyn Heights Location
122 Montague Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Cafe con Libros
Crown Heights
Photo courtesy of Cafe con Libros
A haven of inclusivity, Cafe con Libros (coffee with books) stands proudly as an Afro-Latinx owned intersectional feminist bookstore and coffee shop. Its lively space is dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging and celebration for all, embracing womxn-identified folx with open arms. Savor a cup of coffee or tea while flipping through pages at one of their inviting outdoor tables. Join the ranks of the Feminist Book Club, partake in engaging events, or explore their collection of transformative books and meaningful gifts. Take a look at their website to see what else they have to offer.
Cafe con Libros
724 Prospect Place
Brooklyn, NY 11216
And because there are always new stores popping up here in Brooklyn, we wanted to shout out to a couple new—or soon to open—Brooklyn bookstores that are on our radar.
- Tayler & Co — Cortelyou Road’s first bookshop in 20 years opened earlier this year in Ditmas Park. The Black-owned family-run store houses new and used books in addition to comics and gifts
- The Ripped Bodice — This steamy Los Angeles-based romance bookshop opened a Brooklyn location earlier this month in Park Slope
- Lofty Pigeon Books — Making its debut in Kensington this fall with more than 5,000 books representing a variety of genres thanks to husband and wife team, bibliophiles Briana Parker and Davi Marra
To further celebrate Book Lovers Day, check out these 20 Children’s Books by Brooklyn Authors.
If you’re a book lover looking to buy, sell or rent in Brooklyn
