Behind the dazzling lights and the busy lifestyle of New York City are some of the most amazing and coziest bookstores around, offering respite amidst the city that never sleeps. Here is our list of 11 of the best used bookstores in New York City.
1. Bauman Rare Books
A favorite place among bibliophiles, Bauman Rare Books is an elegant and upscale used bookstore that specializes in extremely rare and old editions that cannot be found in other places. The shop’s pride is a collection of magnificent and exquisite antiquarian books that date back to as far as the 16th century! Other than its antiquarian collection, the shop also offers a regular collection of used books on topics such as architecture, archaeology, children’s books, history, and much more.
The store allows you to shop on its website as well as at its brick-and-mortar store. It is located in the borough of Manhattan. For further inquiries, you can contact the store right here.
2. Westsider Rare & Used Books Inc.
Another haven for book lovers in Manhattan, this bookstore is a hidden gem amidst the concrete jungle. The store features an impressive collection of fiction, poetry collections, books on philosophy, etc. There are some rare leather-bound editions if you are hunting for antiquarian books. Most of the books are in very good condition as the store does not accept books that have been damaged and books that have handwriting in them.
You can actually buy books from this bookstore online, but only through vendors such as ABEBOOKS.com or Amazon.com. Otherwise, you will have to go to their store on Broadway. If you wish to ask for a specific title, it would be best to contact them here beforehand.
3. East Village Books
East Village Books is a popular used bookstore in the borough of Manhattan. It offers a great collection of books on scholarly subject matters such as philosophy, social sciences, critical theory, music, and much more. There is also a good selection of books on cults and esoteric topics. The store is also popular with students thanks to its rather impressive collection of recently used textbooks. Do note that the store accepts cash only.
You can check out their collection and make purchases online through their Amazon storefront. Alternatively, you can buy books directly at their brick-and-mortar store on St. Marks Pl. If you have a specific title in mind, don’t hesitate to let the bookstore know in advance so they can hold the title.
4. Codex
Another cozy nest for introverts, Codex is a quaint little bookstore/coffee shop that offers not only a superb collection of literary fiction and art books but also amazing cups of coffee. The store also comes with a sit-in area with a good selection of cakes, allowing you to unwind and chat with your friends about your favorite books while enjoying delicious desserts.
The store occasionally hosts some events. You can check their schedule on their website here. The store only allows in-store purchases for now. The store is located in the borough of Manhattan.
5. Argosy Book Store
Since its establishment in 1925, Argosy Book Store has been offering a great collection of rare out-of-print editions. A family-owned business, the bookstore currently houses more than 140,000 volumes of books on various topics, including fiction, biography, architecture, arts & culture, poetry, philosophy, and much more. Among these books are rare gems dating back to as far as the 17th century! Interestingly, there is also a collection of antique maps on the second floor of the store.
You can make purchases on their website as well as at their brick-and-mortar store. If you have inquiries about their collection, don’t hesitate to reach out to them here. The store is located in the borough of Manhattan.
6. Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks
Established in 1997, Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks is the destination for both dedicated bookworms and foodies. It features an impressive collection of cookbooks and magazines that date back to as far as the 18th century, making this spot very popular with antiquarian book collectors. Occasionally, there will be a haul full of treasures, and the bookstore will post notices about these hauls on their website, so be sure to check in with them regularly!
The store sells books at their physical shop only. You can make one-on-one appointments with the owner here if you wish to avoid the crowd. Their store is located in Manhattan.
7. Turn the Page Again
A non-profit bookstore aimed at helping individuals with mental illnesses, Turn the Page Again was established in 2010, and it has been offering an eclectic collection of children’s books, fiction, history books, cookbooks, and much more. Occasionally, there will be interesting finds. The price tags for the books are quite reasonable, with most titles costing $1-$5.
You can only buy books at their brick-and-mortar store. You could try checking in with them for some book recommendations before coming. The store is located in Queens.
8. Mast Books
Established in 2010, Mast Books is an up-and-coming bookstore with a focus on rare out-of-print editions as well as new books from small publishing houses. The available books are on the topic of arts, architecture, photography, and much more. The store also hosts several interesting events as well as art exhibitions on a regular basis.
The store offers in-store shopping only. To make appointments, try contacting them here before entering. The store is located in Manhattan.
9. Mercer Street Books & Records
A favorite spot for locals, Mercer Street Books & Records is the place to be if you are looking for both rare books and records. Since its establishment 30 years ago, the store has been offering a great collection of literary fiction and music books. They also offer really rare LPs, so don’t hesitate to ask around, and you might find some gold.
The store is located in Manhattan. They offer in-store shopping only, but you can contact them through their website if you have questions.
10. Human Relations
Located in Brooklyn, Human Relations is a relatively new bookstore run by a team of passionate young individuals. The store offers a diverse collection with a focus on fiction, philosophy, film, foreign language literature. The collection is large enough for you to explore the store over multiple visits!
Human Relations is currently offering in-store shopping services only. You could contact the store here for more information about their collection or their opening hours.
11. The Corner Bookstore
Opened in 1978, The Corner Bookstore has always been famous with local bibliophiles with its carefully curated collection of fiction as well as non-fiction. The store’s available genres include history books, travel guides, cookbooks, poetry, mysteries, fiction, and arts. Occasionally, the store will host events, so be sure to follow the event schedule on their website.
You can order book deliveries, but only through email and phone. Alternatively, you can check out their collection at their brick-and-mortar store in Manhattan. To check if a specific title is available at their store, you can contact them here.