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    A Novel Idea

    4.8 (18 reviews)
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    Bill M.

    For my first review of 2019 I'll be the first to review East Passyunk Ave's very needed new bookstore. I covered in my last bookstore review of Shakespeare & Co (https://www.yelp.com/biz/shakespeare-and-co-philadelphia-2) how despite my love of reading, new bookstores are something that I rarely find myself visiting unless they offer up an ample amount of additional features. And from bringing local Philly writers to the front of the store and also selling used books (supplied by us South Philly folk who read a lot!), to hosting events like author readings and bookclub sessions, A Novel Idea is that community bookstore that goes well beyond the norm. It's the perfect location for a fun couple who aspired to have a community events space for local artists and writers to hangout and discuss what they're reading and writing in (https://www.broadstreetreview.com/creative-economy/a-novel-idea-opens-on-east-passyunk-avenue?fbclid=IwAR3EmUFEAOo75oMF8CeyfxczGCA23988IPRRr4zmJONBn8DHQ_cWrDz8Hh4#). The popular reading and new release books are perfectly lined up on center tables like most bookstores. But I always make a point to visit their local Philly section since there's plenty of harder to find reads and first pressings from local publishers. Someone whose predominately a used bookstore browser like me will also be content with browsing their 2 shelf section that's loaded with plenty of novels, cookbooks, nonfiction, and more. The store's Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/anovelideaphilly/) is also worth a visit so you can keep track of their scheduled author readings, workshops, and other events.

    Flush entrance then two large steps to get to two thirds of the store.
    Lauren B.

    This would be a true gem if they were accessible to me. It wouldn't be so disappointing if they didn't advertise themselves as wheelchair accessible. You can roll in the front door, yes, but the bulk of the books are up two large steps. They have not procured a portable ramp, which shouldn't be cost prohibitive. Were they to do so, they'd be fully inclusive except for bathrooms which may not even be available for any customers anyway. The employee I spoke with was apologetic but seemed confused when I said it was a matter of the decision to get a ramp, not that the space could not be more inclusive. *shrugs*

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    4 years ago

    Fabulous. If you are missing the world where there were local bookstores, stop in here.

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    Ask the Community - A Novel Idea

    Is there a wheelchair accessible way to access all parts of the store?

    Hi Keri, thank you for reaching out! Currently, the entrance to the store is wheelchair accessible and this gives access to half of the bookstore. This area includes the following sections: fiction, small press, Philadelphia authors, and books about… Read more

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    Review Highlights - A Novel Idea

    The store is cozy and welcoming, the owners are very friendly, and if they don't have a book you're looking for in stock they're always happy to place an order.

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

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