Looking for a good read? Perhaps even coupled with a welcoming space to enjoy it in? Come along as we share some of our favorite local independent options for bookworms and lovers of all things literary.
Cellar Bird Books
cellarbirdbooks.com
Shoppers here will find a thoughtfully curated selection of new books for all ages, along with a variety of literary-themed gifts. Puzzles, greeting cards, notebooks, and other unique items from independent makers can also be found.
Orchard House Books & Cafe
plumfieldbooks.com
Good vibes, a great selection of books, caffeinated (and not) beverages, seating in a sunny former greenhouse space, classes and meetups in said greenhouse space ... what more could you ask for?
Plumfield Books
plumfieldbooks.com
Sister store to Orchard House, Plumfield Books is an adorable shop located right in charming downtown Ada. Whether you’re looking for the newest release, local author events, or even the perfect pen for your own writing, this is your spot.
Pages & Grapes
pagesandgrapes.com
Need a little romance in your life? Pages & Grapes, a truly unique romance-only book shop accompanied by a selection of locally sourced wines, has whatever you seek. From the mild to the most spicy, the shop’s judgement-free staff can help you find a book that suits your style. And don’t miss Bookstore Romance Day, coming up on August 15!
Black Dog Books & Records
blackdoggr.square.site
An unapologetically no-bullshit independent book shop that offers a mixture of used books, vinyl, cassettes, Blu-rays, and VHS tapes. Stop in for quality secondhand and perspective-broadening physical media.
Redux Books
reduxbooks.com
An antiquarian book store in Eastown specializing in rare, out of print, and antiquarian books, Redux Books is a must-visit. Looking for a hard-to-find edition? Redux staff love a good hunt, even if it’s not in their current inventory. You can also sell your books.
Schuler Books
schulerbooks.com
With four locations throughout Michigan, including a Grand Rapids location that opened in 1982, Schuler Books is an expansive yet charming independent bookstore with a wide variety of new and used books and fun gifts. Stop in for a special event, grab a chai latte and tasty bite from the Chapbook Cafe, preorder the next best seller, and more.
Pages & Peonies
Pagesandpeonies.com
A cozy, inclusive romance-focused bookstore, Pages & Peonies offers shoppers titles by indie and traditionally published authors, hand-crafted gifts & goods from local artists, fresh bouquets, and good vibes all around.
Argos Book Shop
Argosgr.com
An Eastown staple since 1975, Argos Comics and Used Books is the oldest comic shop in Michigan and the oldest bookstore in Grand Rapids. Stop in for new and back issue comics, all genres of books, along with goods such as vintage toys and Pokémon.
Great Matter Books
greatmatterbooks.com
With over 20 years of experience in the used and rare book industry, Great Matter Books is a great stop for both shopping and selling your books. The shop carries all kinds of reads, but specializes in non-fiction. Paper items such as maps and prints are also of interest!
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
Photos courtesy of Amy Squires; Courtesy of Orchard House Books & Cafe.
