Seattle is practically flooded with amazing independent booksellers. These are our picks for the 10 best bookstores this UNESCO City of Literature has to offer.
Recognized as a City of Literature by UNESCO in 2017, Seattle takes its designation very seriously—and so do its many bookstores and book enthusiasts.
Elliott Bay Book Company
Elliott Bay Book Company has been around since 1973, originally in Pioneer Square and moving to Capitol Hill in 2010. The current building used to be a truck service facility from the early 20th century, and it shows in the exposed timber trusses, industrial sash windows, and high ceilings.
Nowadays, it plays host to author events (more than 500 every year), a café, and over 150,000 book titles. As you might imagine—especially with all the authors showcased here—this store is a big part of Seattle’s literary scene.
Third Place Books Ravenna
This is actually one in a chain of bookstores, with branches in Lake Forest Park and on Wilson Avenue. The name was inspired by sociologist Ray Oldenburg’s concept of “third places,” which are community gathering spaces beyond home and work. And for book lovers, this is truly a home away from home.
In addition to a wide variety of new and used books, the Ravenna location offers an on-site café with plenty of seating. Overall, a great place to relax and unwind after a long day.
Kinokuniya Bookstore
Kinokuniya is one of the biggest bookstore chains in Asia, originally founded in Japan with stores all around the world. As a Japanese company, you better believe it’s filled to the brim with manga (Japanese graphic novels), Studio Ghibli merchandise, plus a whole lot of books from across Asia. It’s a great place for any fan of Japanese media (manga, literature, or anime) or for anyone who’s curious to see what all the hubbub is about.
Left Bank Books Collective
Settled in Seattle’s Pike Place Market is a not-so-little store called Left Bank Books. The people who started this bookstore used to be a part of Red and Black Books 50 years ago before splitting off and going their own way. And I say “people” rather than “owners” for a reason; unlike most stores with one or two clear owners, Left Bank is collectively owned and operated by its workers with no bosses or managers.
True to the way they run their business, they specialize in radical and independent publications—think anti-authoritarian and even anarchist titles, plus books covering trans, queer, feminist, and multiethnic topics.
Ophelia’s Books
In the middling of Seattle’s bustling Fremont neighborhood, Ophelia’s is a cozy oasis of books. This place is filled to the brim with an eclectic collection with a mixture of both new and used fare. They also buy used books every afternoon except Sunday; just be sure to call ahead since they need some time to prep.
The store’s earthy green and brown interior is calming to the senses, accented with a spiral staircase leading to a world of mystery, fantasy, and a bunch of historically-oriented finds. It’s quite a beloved staple of the neighborhood, complete with resident cats and sofas for leisurely reading sessions.
Arundel Books
If you’re ever in Pioneer Square, you have to check out Arundel Books. It began specializing in art and poetry, but grew over time to sell rare and out-of-print books. In the modern day, its stock has broadened even further to encompass photography, Pacific Northwest literature, and more.
The inside has high, vaulted ceilings, which gives the inside a surprisingly spacious and elegant feel. It’s a pleasant blend of century-old design coming together with a clean, modern sleekness.
Queen Anne Book Company
With a name like “Queen Anne,” you might expect a regal or classical air to exude from the very walls themselves. But this particular bookshop got its name from the neighborhood, and presents a warm, welcoming environment for visitors. Though only established in 2013, it has a vibrant energy that keeps readers coming back.
The store offers a large collection of contemporary and children’s literature, and hosts literary events throughout the year, including monthly book discussions, lectures, and local author get-togethers.
Secret Garden Books
Secret Garden Books is dedicated to creating a community space where all can feel welcome. It has been an independent bookseller for nearly half a century and is still going strong, with books meant to encourage a love of reading in everyone. However, it pays special attention to children’s books and supporting youth literacy in general. This can be seen in its participation in local school book fairs and the book clubs it hosts for both adults and the younger generation.
As a cherry on top, the store also offers services like free gift wrapping, educator and book club discounts, and even shipping.
Ada’s Technical Books & Café
Ada’s takes pride in being a little geeky. Named after Ada Lovelace, often considered the world’s first computer programmer, the store aims to provide a space for “geeks” (or anyone, really) to explore technical knowledge. This combination bookstore/café is bright and airy, with a fun vibe sure to put anyone in a good mood.
True to its geeky goals, its collection has a clear focus in STEM-related fields: computer science, engineering, architecture, math, science… plus a little splash of fantasy and sci-fi. Great fuel for the actual science, doncha know.
Twice Sold Tales
Ophelia’s isn’t the only spot in Seattle with fuzzy resident cats. One such cat features prominently on Twice Sold Tales’s storefront sign, and another on its webpage.
Aside from its feline attractions, the store has a focus on used and rare titles, plus a decent number of collectibles. The shelves are piled high with a wide range of genres, creating a maze-like experience any literature lover will be happy to get lost in.
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Migz
K Lou
K. Lou is a writer born in the U.S. who found her way to Japan through a spiritual calling—or, more precisely, better access to tea. She writes about travel, culture, and the occasional creative piece, inspired by her enduring love of books. This love began in high school when K. Lou carried books around to avoid seeming odd while lost in thought. Once she started reading, she never stopped. With zero regrets, she continues to explore the written word and invites others to join her in celebrating its varied forms.
