This bookstore is incredible! It's part of my North Loop Jaunt (every few months I head over to the…read moreneighborhood and hit up my favorite places). Did you know it's run by volunteers? Yep, how wonderfully Austin. The book selections focus on social justice, economic justice, etc. It's a gathering space for like-minded people and I feel so at home when there. They have different events like creative art nights and study groups. There's an area that has a shelving unit containing free items. Sofas, lounge area, coffee/tea area. Space for kids to create. It's a welcoming and inclusive shop that's important in today's world. Support local.

The staff is so friendly- this is a great example of an ATX bookstore and has a purpose . It is a…read morebit hippyish but that's what's so great about it. But also the other best part: VEGAN DONUTS- get them! You can really find some books that are a gem here and very good prices.

This bookstore is one of Austin's best hidden-in-plain-sight gems…read more It's tucked away just three blocks from downtown in a beautiful old two-story house that has been turned into a bookstore, wine bar, and coffee shop. Each room has its own type of books, along with original artwork, so it feels fun just wandering from room to room. There are plenty of places to sit inside, plus outdoor seating on both floors. If you head upstairs, you'll find a great view of downtown while you sip a glass of wine and flip through your newest book. The staff really know their books and their wine, and I love that you can walk around the store with your glass in hand while you browse. My only suggestion would be to add a small collection of vintage magazines. I'd probably never leave.

This place is such a gem! A bookstore, cafe, and study spot all in one...house? Amazing! In…read moreaddition, they become a wine bar at night! I come here to study and love this place, but this time I got their salted caramel iced latte, which was average, I'll probably get something else next time!!

We came here as our city is being a jerk and closing this down. I know some of that is that our…read moreolder generation didn't want any new taxes on anything as they are selfish and don't want to pay taxes on the 3 houses they own or whatever. Still it sucks to see this going away. We came in, bought some books and browed a bit. They place had a fair amount of people, still quite a few books, music, and movies. I couldn't find much I was intersteied in but Shana did and even found me a book or two. The bathroom is weird, it is around a corner that looks like you are not allowed to go to and there is a key on a hanger that you take in with you, you don't need to unlock the door and I am not sure it even locks. If the key is missing that is how you know the bathroom has someone in it, there is a small hook on the inside to hang the key while you are in the restroom. So you have to hope people notice it is gone and you have to hope everyone puts the key back. But they are clean and they have a sign in the bathroom that the front desk can supply you with pads if needed. The one misstep here was the guy running the front desk, he was not super friendly, I heard his reaction to a lady gushing about how great the place was and how many books she found for such a good price, some were gifts and he could care less. He wasn't rude but he was doing that thing where you just nod and say uh huh. I also heard him later say he was from another branch of the library, I don't know which but I hope we don't run into him again. We got something like 7 or 8 books for 9 bucks which is fantastic. He checked us out fast, as he had better things to do and we headed out.

Recycled reads is a really interesting place. I found out about it from Google when I was looking…read morefor a used copy of a specific book. Let me start with - it's not a big place, and the selection isn't huge so it's not terribly likely you'll find something very specific, much less a popular title. However, it's a nice concept. They sell retired library books for VERY cheap, so if you're list looking for a new book in general, this is actually a pretty decent spot to get some and save money. They have a small lot out front but I had no trouble finding parking. The staff there were really friendly and helpful; they don't have a catalog because of all the turnover but they do have things arranged by genre so they could point me toward where I might find the book I was looking for.

I love Book Woman!! Been here several times over the years (even long before relocating to Austin)…read more So rad they've been around since 1975 as a feminist, LGBTQIA+ shop. Always progressive, always on the right side of history. It's definitely the center of the community. They've got an amazing collection of books including the important banned books. They host lots of events with authors, they've got book clubs, and more. It's really like a collab of like-minded folks gathering together over a shared love of literature as well as wanting to make the world a better place. It's wonderful to walk into a space like this where you're always treated like a lifelong friend or family member. If I'm in the mood for a read and not sure what I want, their recommendations are always spot on. In addition to books, they carry some really neat gift items too. Support local. Reading is fundamental.

The sweetest girl greeted me upon entering the store. I was looking for some different books, as…read morewell as the usual ones. But mostly different books by new authors with different storylines. I found it here, and it was such a refresher. I mean, the selection of new authors and books was right here in front of me. So I took my time with the different genres. I like how they dedicate areas to this subject and to other types of books. She also told me she can order books that are out of stock, which is great for me. I like to keep one-of-a-kind books on my bookshelves at home. They have so much worth and lessons I like to refer back to. Well, you have to be an author or writer to understand that last sentence. I made myself laugh! I saw an area for authors to speak, and we talked about the monthly events they host. They are an independent bookstore, which is high on my list because you cannot only find the best books, but also new books and authors, but also other items like accessories and more. And it goes back to the events of hearing an author read an excerpt from their book. I always say it's worth the cost and value, which isn't expensive, to experience what the independent bookstores offer.

Kinokuniya Books is one of the coolest bookstores I have ever visited in Austin. Calling it a…read morebookstore is almost a misnomer...it is so much more. In addition to an incredible selection of Japanese and English-language books, the store is filled with stationery, art supplies, anime merchandise, pens, unique gifts, charms, and all kinds of fun gadgets. Wow, wow, wow! I was completely overwhelmed...in the best possible way. There was so much to see that I had to take three deep breaths, slow down, and explore one aisle at a time. Everywhere I turned, I discovered something new and interesting. I found myself just as captivated by the beautifully displayed merchandise as I was by the books. As soon as I walked in, a friendly staff member greeted me and asked if I was looking for anything in particular. When I replied, "No, I'm just browsing," she smiled and pointed out the store's main sections, making it easy to begin my adventure. Everything I looked at was reasonably priced. Fun, eclectic, non-standard bookstore...

Such a helpful staff!!!! Whether in person or over the phone they are SUPER helpful, there's one…read moregentleman in particular (I wish I had gotten his name) very friendly and polite. Despite the fact that they have products up to the brim- everything is very organized. The only problem is trying to decide what to get without breaking the bank!!!

On June 20, 2026, a beloved north Austin bookstore will cease operations as a brick-and-mortar…read moreshop. Their online presence will continue during the transitionary period. Black Pearl Books, one of Austin's few Black-owned independent bookstores, is closing this chapter of their physical operations. Husband-and-wife owners Eric and Katrina Brooks stated that this move comes as they "rethink life as empty nesters." I got an opportunity to chat with the couple. Eric said their daughter, Alicia, will be going off to college. He said they still continue to do pop ups with community partners like ACC Highland campus and the Austin Public Library. The owners will work toward their future plans and continue to host authors through the fall. The closing celebration on Saturday will include live illustrations, henna, matcha, and a live reading and book signing. Importantly, the City of Austin has designated June 20, 2026, as Black Pearl Books Day. This bookstore has been a beacon of light in the Austin community and will be sorely missed! For me, it is a bigger issue...we see more and more smaller businesses closing especially over the last few years. Big box national book sellers seemingly are expanding. While Black Pearl Books owners are closing their brick-and-mortar shop, I am excited for the new opportunities that await them. We say so long for now...not goodbye!

Now that they're about to close, I decide to write my review. Well, it's another one that has been…read moresitting for SO LONG as a pending draft, I may as well get to it. Though they are closing the brick & mortar, the owners say they aren't going anywhere and this makes me happy. I am hoping this means we will continue to see them involved in all things books, social justice, and more. This is a place I started going to when I first started coming to Austin on twice-yearly visits (prior to relocation here). For several years in fact. It is one the best places to obtain banned books. The collection is impressive and IMPORTANT. Though it is a small shop, they have EVERYTHING. If they don't they get it for you. They go above and beyond! I write this as if they are still in existence and that's because as I write this, they are. While there is still time, get out and support this local, Black-owned, glorious bookstore! When they're gone and doing other things, continue to support them. We need MORE people and MORE places like this. Period. They walk the walk and talk the talk! A++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Cute neighborhood bookshop :)…read more Lots of community events for adults and kids. There's always something for everyone. They carry a lot of book titles and if they don't have it in store, you can order online as well. They also sell notebooks, cards, merch, and lots of knick knacks. Seating inside can be limited but there's lots of outdoor seating too. There's a parking lot across the street if the parking lot next door is full and they also have lots of neighborhood parking. Overall, great place to browse books, stationary, read, and grab a drink!

First light books is everything & more I wanted in a modern bookstore…read more Great selection with staff notes in every genre. Easy to navigate and choose. Additionally there's cards, magazines, stationery, merch, etc. It's bright, relaxing and just a space you want to stay in all day. The outside seating is nice on a cooler day as well. Their cafe serves great coffee & matcha. I love first light and recommended it to everyone.

We found this place due to looking for independent bookstores when we travel. This one is tucked…read moreaway in a nice little spot. Parking is pretty good. It is not super big but it makes great use of the space it has tons of pre loved books, stickers, various gifts, oracle and Tarot cards, witches candles and so much more. SHANA SAYS: Super cute atmosphere, fun organizing of the books like pre loved, and lots of cute gift items. Plus a cat with its own hours! Kathy was super friendly and helpful. Made the whole experience better and is a genuine person. They do have a game room and a snack bar with free water as well as a keuring and snacks for sale. The bathroom is for everyone and they are very welcoming. Of course as an independent bookstore they have a wide variety of titles with some new books thrown in. They do mystery sells and bundles where you get a vague description of a book that is covered up and you take a chance. It should go without saying but as you are supporting local businesses the prices are a little higher the HPB or Amazon but it means more here and you should buy local when you can. I highly recommend this place. They even have a section where if you spend $50 you get to choose a free gift from books to sunglasses to other items. Go in, say hi to Kathy and The Cat!

What a wonderfully weird place! I was looking for a local bookstore that was close to my hotel and…read morewould let me explore a little. The Book Burrow did the trick! I will start with the "downsides" (as few as they are). This place is pretty small. Like smaller than I thought. Because of this, its not the greatest place for browsing. They had some "witch" stuff which was interesting, but I was looking for a book. Also, most of the books are used which isn't terrible, but not exactly clear. As for the positives, this place is a true small business so you really get the personal touch when it comes to service. I also picked this place because it did a "blind book" service where they will pick out a book or two for you based on your description. A bunch of bookstores do this, but the Book Burrow understood the assignment exactly. They got me THREE books and all of them were PERFECT. I was surprised how they found my vibe and found me unique books! They also wrapped it in a beautiful paper and addressed it to me! It was like a little birthday gift to myself! As you can tell, I was very floored by the selections. This is the small business of small businesses so I am so HAPPY that I was able to stop by! While the place is small and their selection is in flux, I really appreciated the personal touch from the staff at The Book Burrow.