Whether you're a seasoned reader, a certified bookworm, or just seeking the perfect gift, Boston's bookstores offer a haven for literary enthusiasts and are a great opportunity to shop local and support creatives. Discover some of Boston’s most unique bookstores below!

 

Our Top Picks:

Trident Booksellers & Café

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338 Newbury Street, Boston

Trident Booksellers & Café has been a staple in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood since 1984. Offering various genres of literature, book recommendations, an event series and a café that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner – this Newbury Street location is the perfect place to catch up with friends, grab brunch, or browse their wide selection of books, magazines and gifts. 

 

Brattle Book Shop

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9 West Street, Boston

A beloved Boston landmark and one of America’s oldest and largest used bookstores, Brattle Book Shop has been captivating book lovers since 1825. Owned by the Gloss family since 1949, this shop offers an incredible selection of used books spanning both genres and decades. Explore two floors of general used books, a third floor dedicated to rare and antiquarian treasures, and the iconic outdoor sale lot.

 

Posman Books

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127 Newbury St, Boston

Located on Newbury Street, Posman Books is a family-owned business run by lifelong book lovers. They offer thoughtfully curated recommendations, books, gifts, stationery, toys and more. Trust us when we say that you’re bound to leave with a few things you didn’t know you needed. 

 

Beacon Hill Books & Café

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71 Charles Street, Boston

Beacon Hill Books & Café is a newly opened bookstore in Boston’s iconic Beacon Hill neighborhood. The shop pairs a curated selection of reads with a warm atmosphere, including a locally sourced café offering tea, wine, and small bites.

 

Commonwealth Books

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9 Spring Lane, Boston

Located Downtown, Commonwealth Books is a unique and intimate used bookstore that is a must-visit for all book and history lovers. Along with its expansive book collection with an emphasis on the arts, architecture, history, literature, philosophy and religion, the bookstore also offers a large selection of antique prints and maps. This is definitely the go-to shop for rare finds and literary treasures.

 

Brookline Booksmith

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279 Harvard Street, Brookline

Family-owned and locally operated since 1961, Brookline Booksmith offers a huge collection of both new and used books. The shop also has an expansive selection of gifts, stationery, events, snacks and beverages.

 

Harvard Book Store

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1256 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge

Harvard Book Store has been a locally owned and independently run Cambridge landmark since 1932. Located right next to Harvard Yard, the bookstore carries new, used and remaindered books. Make sure to check out their curated reading lists or host author events during your next visit!

 

Raven Used Books

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23 Church Street, Cambridge

Located in Harvard Square, Raven Used Books offers over 1,000 new (used) books every week, with discounts from 50% to 80% off. Specializing in scholarly and literary books, you will find everything from Philosophy, social theory, art and architecture, music, history, classical studies and more.  

 

Frugal Bookstore

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57 Warren Street, Roxbury 

Frugal Bookstore has created a community of book lovers in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood. The only black-owned bookstore in Boston, Frugal has shelves filled with new releases, young adult novels, biographies and so much more. With a passion for promoting literacy in teens and adults, the store is also well known for its expansive collection of children’s books. 

 

Parkside Bookshop

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260 Shawmut Ave, Boston

Everyone knows a neighborhood isn't complete without a bookshop, and Parkside Bookshop has done just that. Located in Boston's historic South End, Parkside Bookshop is a dog-friendly bookstore complete with new and best sellers, children's favorites, timeless classics and even events. Grab a coffee from the South End Buttery and stroll down the street to a place both you and your pup can enjoy!

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