No matter where I travel, one of the first things I look to find is the local independent bookstores. There is something so charming about a well-curated selection, personable staff who love books as much as you do, and attention to what the locals are really interested in reading. Every little charming street and local hood in the Twin Cities has a favorite bookstore and this Saturday, April 29, 2023, we get to let these stores know how much we love them! It’s Independent Bookstore Day!
Independent Bookstore Day is celebrated once a year in April all over the country when bookstores hold events, special promotions, book signings, etc. Essentially it’s a party at your local bookstore and who doesn’t love a book party?!
To celebrate this day, Rain Taxi, an organization dedicated to literary events and publication, has pulled together a Twin Cities Independent Bookstore Day Passport! Passports will be available at the participating bookstores listed on their website starting Monday, April 24, and continuing to IBD itself on Saturday, April 29. Grab a passport, check out the events happening in your area, and join the nationwide party celebrating books while also giving love and attention to your favorite local store.
We have curated a list of our favorite bookstores here. But here are five more bookstores you might want to check out in your area!
Valley Book Seller | 217 Main Street North Stillwater MN
This little bookstore in the heart of Stillwater’s charming downtown is the perfect spot to find your next favorite book. They love featuring local authors so check their events page for live book talks and signings.
Comma, a book shop | 4250 Upton Avenue S, Minneapolis MN
If you love local independent children’s bookstore Wild Rumpus, then you will love this brand new bookshop just around the corner focusing on books Wild Rumpus doesn’t carry–books for grownups! In fact, make it a dual visit and you’ll be stocked with some of the best books for all ages curated by these great local shops!
Lake Country Booksellers | 4766 Washington Sq, White Bear Lake, MN
This charming bookshop tucked into the cutest little house in downtown White Bear Lake is what you dream of in a bookstore. With a small selection you know you are getting well-curated books, but they are also always happy to order whatever you need.
Chapter One | 7924 Victoria Drive Victoria, MN
When a bookstore is owned and run by a mother and former teacher, you know the children’s section is going to be magnificent. There are also great ways to get involved in book clubs and connect with other readers. I also appreciate browsing their handpicked book lists for inspiration.
Cream and Amber | 1605 Main Street, Hopkins, MN
Any place that promises books and beer is the place for me! Cream and Amber in Hopkins’s cute downtown features bookshelves filled with great books, great local beers on tap, and the perfect environment to gather with your neighbors to enjoy both!
