Must Visit Indie Bookstores around St. Louis

There’s something magical about walking into an independent bookstore. The smell of the paper, the friendly face of the employee, maybe a quirky bookstore cat and the feeling of towering shelves stacked with stories in every direction. If you’re like me it’s both an awe and a bit of frustration that there are so many books to read and never enough time. (mom problems?). We are so lucky to have a lot of indie bookstores in St. Louis and they are vital parts of our neighborhoods and communities. Sure, it’s easy to click “add to cart” online but please use this as your reminder to get out and support the local shops, author events, kid’s activities and community these bookstores provide every day! Here’s a round up of some of my favorite across the St. Louis region!

Belleville Books is an old bank turned bookstore and it’s so special!

Left Bank Books is one of the best local book shops in St. Louis!

• Left Bank Books

  A St. Louis institution, Left Bank Books has been connecting readers with great books for decades. Located in the Central West End, this beloved shop is known for author events, thoughtful staff recommendations, and a strong selection of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s titles. Don’t miss the used section downstairs!

• Leviathan Bookstore

  Leviathan Bookstore is one of the city’s newer literary spots. Tucked along South Grand, it offers a curated mix of books, gifts, and a modern indie bookstore vibe that keeps locals coming back.

• Dunaway Books

  If you love used bookstores, Dunaway Books is a must-visit. Packed floor to ceiling with titles in every genre, it’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time while discovering unexpected treasures.

• Read A Book

  Read A book is another great second-hand bookstore in South St. Louis City with a mission to keep things affordable.

• The Novel Neighbor

  One of the most popular bookstores in the region, The Novel Neighbor is a Webster Groves staple with books, gifts, and frequent events. It’s especially great for families, gift shopping, and browsing staff picks.

• Open Door Romance

  The neighbor to Novel Neighbor. This connecting store is dedicated to our romance readers!

• The Book House

  Part bookstore, part treasure hunt, The Book House in Maplewood is famous for its sprawling collection of new, used, and rare books.

• Subterranean Books

  Located in The Loop, Subterranean Books is a longtime indie favorite with literary fiction, poetry, essays, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for serious readers.

• Betty’s Books

  A comic book and graphic novel focused bookstore in Webster Groves, Betty’s Books has quickly become a charming stop. Plus they have a coffee shop inside!

• Double Dog Bookshop

  What started as a mobile bookshop is now the newest bookstore in St. Charles County. Located in Wentzville, Double Dog Bookshop is a cute community focused bookstore.

• Main Street Books

  Located in historic St. Charles, Main Street Books is the perfect stop during a day on Main Street. Check out their new location and grab a book to add to your TBR pile!

• Neighborhood Reads

  Worth the drive, Neighborhood Reads offers a warm small-town bookstore feel inside a charming historic setting in Washington, MO.

• EyeSeeMe

  EyeSeeMe is really amazing, a bookstore specializing in children’s books featuring African American characters and stories. It’s a nationally recognized resource and a must-visit for families and educators.

• Reservoir Books

  A new kid on the block! This indie bookstore is now open at the City Foundry featuring a great selection of books as well as a full calendar of events!

• Belleville Books

  Across the river, Belleville Books adds another independent gem to the metro area and is worth adding to any Metro East outing. Plus it’s built inside an old bank with gorgeous ceilings and a real life bank vault you can go inside!