Uncover Literary Treasures: A Splattering of Pacific Northwest’s Still-Open Independent Bookstores
The Pacific Northwest is known for a lot of things: stunning mountain views, evergreen forests stretching as far as the eye can see, and of course, that delicious cup of coffee. But nestled amongst the natural beauty, you’ll find a treasure trove of independent bookstores, each with its own unique charm and character. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill chain stores; they’re spaces where the love of reading comes alive, offering a respite for bookworms and a chance to discover something truly special. Forget the usual tourist spots and dive into these hidden gems. Let’s go exploring!
Portland’s Pages: Beyond Powell’s
While Portland is rightfully famous for Powell’s City of Books, venturing beyond its iconic doors reveals a whole new world of literary delights. One such place is Annie Bloom’s Books in the Multnomah Village neighborhood. This cozy shop has been a community cornerstone for decades, offering a carefully curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about reading, always ready with a recommendation or a friendly chat. They even have a robust author event schedule, making it a vibrant hub for literary lovers.
Seattle’s Storytellers: Indie Bookstores with a View
Seattle’s bookstores aren’t just retail spaces—they’re living, breathing reflections of the city’s creativity. Whether you’re a poetry lover, a tech enthusiast, or a parent seeking children’s books, there’s a store here to match your passions. So grab a coffee, settle into a corner, and let the pages turn.
Seattle’s largest independent bookstore is a titan of the literary world, Elliott Bay Book Company. With over 150,000 titles spanning genres from classics to contemporary fiction, Elliott Bay has been a cornerstone since 1973. Its hand-built cedar shelves and cozy café (Oddfellows) evoke a timeless charm, while its author events—featuring luminaries like Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen—cement its status as a cultural institution. Don’t miss the staff recommendations lining the shelves, a testament to their expertise.
Charlies’ Queer Books: a Fremont gem is Seattle’s first LGBTQ+-owned bookstore, offering a welcoming space for queer literature, events, and community gatherings. With a focus on inclusivity, Charlie’s hosts book clubs and author talks, fostering connection among readers.
One of this author’s favorite stores is Open Books:A Poem Emporium. Seattle’s only poetry-exclusive bookstore relocated to Pioneer Square in 2023. Dive into new, used, and rare poetry collections, and linger on plush couches for an immersive literary experience.
Tucked into Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, Queen Anne Book Company is a literary gem where charm meets community. This indie bookstore blends a curated selection of new titles with a welcoming atmosphere, including a sunny patio perfect for sipping coffee and getting lost in a good book. The team at Queen Anne Book Company is renowned for its knowledgeable staff and thoughtful recommendations. Shelves are adorned with handwritten staff picks, guiding readers to hidden gems.
Seattle is dotted with independent bookstores. If you know of one that we should highlight, please let us know at tips@uppeleftus.com.
Spokane’s Literary Gems
Spokane, Washington, is home to a vibrant collection of independent bookstores that cater to every literary taste. Among these treasures is Auntie’s Bookstore, a cornerstone of the community known for its extensive selection of new and used books, as well as its welcoming atmosphere and frequent author events.
For those seeking a cozy café experience alongside their reading, Atticus Coffee & Gifts offers a delightful combination of books and beverages.
Nestled in Spokane’s South Perry District, Wishing Tree Books is more than a bookstore—it’s a vibrant community hub where stories come alive. This women-owned indie shop specializes in diverse children’s literature, ensuring kids from all backgrounds see themselves reflected in its shelves. With a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a focus on inclusivity, Wishing Tree Books isn’t just a place to buy books—it’s a catalyst for connection and growth.
The Garland District in Spokane offers several local bookstores and a variety of vintage shops to wander through on your next visit.
Beyond the Cities: Discovering Literary Havens in the PNW
Nestled in downtown Ashland, Bloomsbury Books has been a cornerstone of the city’s literary scene since 1980. Specializing in contemporary fiction, children’s literature, and a robust Shakespeare/theater section (reflecting Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival ties), the store also stocks diverse genres like mystery, memoirs, and local authors. Its upstairs café—Bloomsbury Blends—offers coffee, wine, and live music nights, blending literary culture with a vibrant social atmosphere
These are just a few of the many hidden gem bookstores waiting to be discovered in the Pacific Northwest. Each shop has its own unique personality and offerings, making them well worth a visit. So, ditch the chain stores and explore the literary landscape of the PNW. You might just find your new favorite bookstore, and a few new favorite books along the way. Happy reading!
Let’s Not Forget Libraries
Small-town libraries are more than just places to borrow books—they are the heart of their communities. Often serving as gathering spaces, they provide free access to knowledge, technology, and cultural resources that might otherwise be out of reach for residents. Beyond their bookshelves, they offer programs for children, adults, and seniors, from storytimes and book clubs to job search assistance and local history archives. In towns where entertainment and educational opportunities can be limited, libraries become hubs of connection, learning, and discovery. Their dedicated librarians foster a sense of belonging, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or background, has a place to explore new ideas and expand their horizons.