the 5 best bookstores in richmond, va
richmond, virginia has been my hometown for over 15 years now, and i couldn’t love this river city any more. it’s truly the best, home to so many gems, from hiking trails along the james river, to awesome music venues, to the most delicious restaurants, to the CUTEST bookstores full of treasures.
here are 5 of my most favorite, most frequented bookstores in rva:
i’m a little biased because i know and love the family who owns this sweet shop (i used to babysit their twin girls when they were little and they are now in COLLege!!) but it is truly the absolute best spot for young readers and curated picks for adult readers, too. i love jill, the owner, so freaking much and the way she can sell me a massive stack of books just by telling me about her own experiences reading them… she’s the best, best, best bookseller because she’s a true book lover and it’s contagious. this is my most beloved bookstore!
i have never loved a bookstore as much as i love this one. it's jam packed of amazing books, used and new alike, organized by genre, and well-priced. i can't leave without an armful of new goodies. upstairs is full of TONS of used books, and downstairs has new releases (and some used ones, too), all arranged by genre. be sure to look for the shop cats, page and mylar! (rip to the og, wonton)
the book bar
1311 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23219
this combination book + wine shop is Black-woman owned and centers bipoc authors and brands. it’s a fun vibe and such a great way to support and center a culture that is far too often marginalized and silenced, while also getting some great book recs and drinks to enjoy all in one stop. win-win-WIN.
this little gem used to be located in an old house and now has a new (larger!) location. it has been around richmond for 30+ years, and it's amazing. the owner is the sweetest, elderly german woman who knows her books and somehow knows everything tucked into the nooks and crannies of her shop. it's a little unorganized, in all the best ways.
this shop is quaint and well-stocked, right in the heart of the cobblestone streets of shockoe bottom. love the knowledge of the workers here, and all their events, autographed copies, locally focused featured books, etc! (3rd picture above!)
