With big book chains like Barnes & Noble and Amazon taking over the paperback game- it’s a hard knock life for little independent bookstores out there. I know it’s super easy to just go online and order the book you what, but let me tell you- stepping into a book store that is owned by someone who truly loves books is an experience you cannot pass up.
From the smell of old books, to getting to chit chat with people who love books just as much as you- there’s just no getting around how great bookstores are. I can tell you there are dozens of books I would have never even picked up if it weren’t for custom recommendations by bookstore owners- I also have quite an extensive record collection because of it too.
Don’t let the Meg Ryan corner store of books get eaten alive by the Tom Hanks mega-store. This isn’t You’ve Got Mail- we still have time to support local bookstores before they all become a thing of the past.
So if you’re looking for some new books to add to your mental library this year, maybe pass up just checking out the best seller list on Amazon and instead research the local bookstores in your area and plan a trip out of it. I promise you, you will not regret it!
We put together a list of the best local bookstores around Dallas for you to explore. Visit one or visit them all and track down that special book sitting on the shelf just waiting for you to come pick it up.
The Wild Detectives– This is a bookstore-bar. A bookstore-bar. Opened by two Spanish civil engineers, they opened their doors in 2014 to the public. Since then, they have won several awards and have been picked up by a handful of news outlets. Their plan as a store? “To feed them, culture them, and get them talking.” This place is a must-stop for booklovers in Dallas!
Lucky Dog Books – Your friendly neighborhood bookstore that is stocked with recycled books, movies, music and more! With a great selection and even better prices, people online can’t stop talking about how much they love Lucky Dog Books!
Deep Vellum Books – The ultimate independent bookstore- Deep Vellum is rated as one of the best bookstores in Dallas! Barely 2 years old, their mission is “to amplify the voices of local to global communities we serve through writing, art, music, film, performance and culture.” They have an amazing event calendar with weekly events that will keep you coming back for more than just books!
Interabang Books – If you’re looking for knowledgeable and experienced booksellers, then look no further. The crew at Interbang Books is here to serve you and all of your book needs. Not only do they have events for you, but also for your kiddos! Because reading should be encouraged at all ages!
The Tattered Jacket– They specialize in the rare! The Tattered Jacket in Historic Town Square, is an indie bookstore that is your go-to for hard-to-find or out-of-print books! Their store has been praised as original and a wonderful stop that even offers free coffee to its customers.
So stop by and support your local bookstores because they need you just as much as you need them! And don’t forget, if you don’t have the money- your local library is always around the corner waiting to help you and your budget get your read on!
Follow our MCLife Dallas Facebook Page to stay in the know and live like a Dallas local!