Austin's Best Independent Bookstores

Summer reading season may be ending, but that just means it's time for cozy reading season — and in Austin, there's no shortage of places to curl up with a good book.

BookPeople

Recently voted one of the best independent bookstores in the country, BookPeople is the largest independent bookseller in all of Texas. Come for their huge selection of books and bookish gifts, regular author readings and other events, and on-site coffee shop.

First Light Bookstore

Housed in an old post office in Hyde Park, First Light Bookstore is the perfect place to grab a free drip coffee and a seat in the courtyard and people-watch — or browse their colorful space and find your next read. Or, try out one of their book clubs.

Black Pearl Books

This Black-woman-owned bookstore in North Austin prioritizes stocking books that are banned in Texas schools and libraries. They also have a "take one, leave one" bookshelf.

Vintage Bookstore & Wine Bar

As Austin's first independent bookstore wine bar, this family-owned business always has something going on, and is open until 10 or 11 p.m. most days.

Monkeywrench Books

This all-volunteer event space, bookstore, and social hub in North Loop is about as indie as it gets, with a tagline of providing "insurgent literature for aspiring partisans."

Reverie Books

This relative newcomer to the bookstore scene has quickly made a name for itself in South Austin. Located in the Crockett Center strip mall, Reverie Books runs a community book giveback program and focuses on uplifting marginalized voices.

BookWoman

Established in 1975, BookWoman offers a wide selection of books by LGBTQ+ and women-identifying authors. You can shop at their North Austin location or online.

Alienated Majesty Books

This bookstore boasts a curated collection of lesser-known works, and also functions as a community space in Central Austin.