Georgians are voracious readers, and as such continue to support a robust independent bookstore community. The state has found unique and innovative ways to keep the local bookstore scene thriving. Below you’ll find 9 of the best bookstores in Georgia that continue to carry the flame of the written word!
The Book Nook in Decatur, Georgia, sells books, music, and comics. According to their website, “Since 1973, the Book Nook has been helping readers, music lovers, and videophiles find quality material.” Item categories include used books, used DVDs, used CDs, bargain paperbacks, children’s books, back-issue comics, graphic comics, comic supplies, vinyl records, action figures, toys, collectibles, and more. Book Nook will buy your items on an as-needed basis. Check their website for current rates.
Charis Books and More is proud to be “the nation’s oldest independent feminist bookstore.” With over 42 years in business, Charis specializes in unique children’s books, feminist culture, and LGBTQ writing. Charis has been featured in many articles, including Publisher’s Weekly, AJC, Examiner, and Creative Loafing. According to Charis, this might be the store for you if “You’re pro-peace, progressive, radical, ‘part of the left,’ liberal, or anything in-between.” While that might leave some readers out in the cold, for those looking for a strong independent bookstore with a voice and point of view, Charis is perfect.
Avid Bookshop has two locations in Athens, Georgia, one on Prince Avenue and one near Five Points. With over two million books in stock, Avid will most certainly have something for you. Shop online and have your item shipped anywhere in the U.S. Consider joining their innovative Subscription Program, in which the program manager will hand-select a title for each subscriber, tailored to suit his or her individual tastes, to be shipping to them. In addition, Avid hosts many author events and book clubs. Check their website for a full list of upcoming events.
Horton’s Books and Gifts is Georgia’s oldest bookstore, having opened for business first in 1891. Antique shelves and display units are still used to showcase for-sale items. In addition to the wide-range of books and genres, Horton’s sell imprinting and personalized stationary, gift wrapping, book repairs, custom binding, wedding supplies, and notary seals. Shop online or in person.
Corner Bookstore in Winder, Georgia, sells new, old, used, and rare books. They are proud members of the Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance. Occasionally, Corner Bookstore will host events, so check back from time to time to see if they’ve uploaded their calendar. Bring your used printed books, pamphlets, and audio books in to trade.
Gottwals Books is a quickly-expanding independent book empire, with nine locations in Georgia alone. Stop by their storefronts in Warner Robins, Byron, Tifton, Commerce, Peachtree City, Macon, Perry, Watkinsville, Ellijay, or Columbus, Georgia. Most of the books sold at Gottwals are second hand and are typically 75-90 percent off the retail price. You’ll have no trouble finding audio, local authors, non-fiction, new releases, movies, teen, young adult, science, kids, history, and many more genres.
The Phoenix and Dragon Bookstore in Atlanta, Georgia, sells books and gifts that celebrate the human spirit. For almost 30 years, Phoenix and Dragon Bookstore has provided the Atlanta area with an almost Buddhist outlet, with the mission that “all of our merchandise serve the common purpose of nurturing the mind, body, and soul.” Pick up a few books before stopping by the psychic to gain further clarity. Besides books, Phoenix sells calendars, chimes, clothing, chakras, crystals, fountains, herbs, and more.
The Bookshelf in Thomasville, Georgia, functions as “a hotbed for literary talent and a showcase for local artists and instructors.” In business for over 30 years, the Bookshelf believes in their role as a community centerpiece as well as a bookstore. To those ends, they host regular book clubs and other events. Sign up for their subscription service to receive indie books delivered to you right to your door. Take the Bookshelf with you by downloading their podcast, From The Front Porch, which features the owner and staff members talking about books and all things literary.
Read It Again books in Suwanee, Georgia, is proud of their independent roots. They often promote indie bestsellers and what’s coming out next in the independent publisher world. They sell new and used books, as well as gifts, cards, and novelties. Check their website for book reviews and an updated list of upcoming events. Shop in-person or online. Their entire inventory is electronic, so you’ll always know exactly what they have in stock.