Mouthwatering Bookstores in Saint Paul

SubText - A Bookstore

★★★★★ 4.7 (20) • $$

"I was a big fan of Subtext pre-pandemic, but now I'm a diehard fangirl book-pushing evangelist. My handsome manfriend and I were discussing our book order pickup from there this afternoon and he made the mistake of asking why I am so friggin loyal to them. After five minutes or so his eyes glazed over but you, dear reader*, may be interested.This little bookstore is resilient as hell and seamlessly transferred its best qualities- its crazy-competent and well-read staff, its responsiveness, and its ordering- into this pandemic context. I know it takes extraordinary effort and work behind the scenes but from the customer side, it's been flawless.I'm gonna rhapsodize here a little on each of those points because they each deserve a bit of shine:a) THEIR STAFF. Y'all. Sue, Matt, and Sarah are some of the best bookshop employees I've ever worked with. They read good books. Their recommendations are typically spot-on. And they're KIND. The last thing I want in a pandemic is some fucking stuck up bookstore employee shaming me for ordering another Jasmine Guillory romance novel. No one will sling that kind of attitude at you here. They RECOMMENDED those novels to me! TAKE MY WALLET.b) Their responsiveness. They answer their phones. They answer their emails. If I place an order via email, I usually hear back from them the same day. The orders are done on time and perfectly executed.c) Their ordering. They can mail your books to you or do in-store pickup, and I've found mailing to be super easy and cheap ($4-5 per order). They send you an email that has tracking info, and usually the books get to me (in Minneapolis) within a day or two. They did gift wrapping for the holidays.They also go out of their way to work with you on pricing. If it looks like the book you want is super expensive, they'll double check with you before ordering it. I got kneecapped, Tonya-Harding-style, by a local business recently who cooly charged me $25 for 3 oz of loose leaf tea without saying a word about the price over the phone, and it made me realize how rare it is for a shop to be like, "So, here are your options- this one is fairly expensive, but I can get it from this other vendor for less- it might take longer... is that ok?" Subtext is spoiling me, team. And they'll spoil you, too. *Apologies- been binging too much Bridgerton- a series which I will absolutely order from Subtext within the month."

Chapter One

★★★★★ 4.7 (3)

"The cutest bookstore I've ever been to! Great book selection, great book related gifts, and great vibes. i highly recommend checking this place out! Thank you for a great experience :)"

The Irreverent Bookworm

★★★★★ 4.9 (11)

"A new bookstore, Hooray!Though they aren't quite officially open I've been lucky enough to attend some pre-open events. They have a great selection of gently used books. Their sense of humor shines through with the cheeky section titles and interesting artwork.There are comfy chairs to sit in and narrow down your purchase selection. Plus they are one of three women owned businesses in the same building!If you are ever in the southern part of the cities you need to check this gem out! Bring your own books to get store credit for any they choose."

Excelsior Bay Books

★★★★★ 4.8 (8) • $

"Small, cozy, intimate setting on a picturesque street in one of the best "old" down-towns around. Maybe this place is so special because there simply aren't many independent bookstores around anymore but I think this place stands out based on its friendly staff, well chosen book selection, and perfect location.Nothing better in the summer than a cone from Licks Unlimited, a movie at the Dock and a book from Excelsior Bay Books."

Paperback Exchange

★★★★☆ 4.3 (17) • $

"Is it just me or is there something about used book stores that really make you have to poop?Is it the overwhelming choice? Is it the slightly lumpy floor that even though is covered in carpet, still squeaks?Is it the smell of pulp? Not quite to the level of the a moldy basement, as the Paperback Exchange is very clean and has some quality books, but almost.Is it the sound damping quality that comes from being surrounded by vertical feet of used books? Like, you could scream in here and nobody would know. Like a tomb.So. If you like to read, or suffer from constipation, head over to this used book store. Massive selection, great and friendly staff. They also buy books, so as Jess R knows, you can feed your habit (hence the name...Exchange. Get it?)."

Tropes & Trifles

★★★★★ 5 (6)

"The store offered a wide selection of romance novels, thoughtfully categorized by type and sub-genre, with tables for everything (historical, L.G.B.T.Q., YA, supernatural, romantasy, sports-themed, vampires, aliens, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, forbidden love, secret identity... I could go on). They also carry both indie published and traditionally published books!Customers are encouraged to leave book recommendations on cards for each other, so you can spread the love for your favorite. Staff are super friendly and even all the customers seemed determined to make this a welcoming and inclusive space. I fell in love with the tote bags, couldn't decide which one to buy, and then bought all three of them. Then, on the way to check out with my pile of books and pile of tote bags, I got caught by the stickers, and had to buy some of those too.Tropes & Trifles is a wonderland and I wish I could live there.You should absolutely support this women-owned, local and independent business."

Niche Books

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Stopped by while walking around downtown Lakeville and noticed that the store was open. What a cute, hole-in-the-wall bookstore! As an avid reader, I love going to local bookstores and absolutely love the name of the store.There was a large selection of books and even an area for kids with a little table and blocks to play with. My toddler loves that section and had fun flipping through the pages of kids' books.The staff member at the store was very sweet and welcoming and interacted plenty with my toddler. We felt right at home. They also have plenty of little trinkets and gifts. We didn't buy anything this time around but I know I will in the future ! Prices are pretty standard for a bookstore and they have a lot of fun specialty items. Excited to visit again. It's located right next to Tapestry coffee, so don't forget to grab some caffeine after."

Buffalo Books & Coffee

★★★★★ 4.7 (21) • $

"I love this place! When I went there, they were working on replacing their sign so I had to look at the address. They serve delicious and cheap/affordable coffee. They have a great service. The barista was quite funny and seemed to know a lot of the patrons. The lower level was great. It was like a nice reading nook and lots of children's books. If you want to order your coffee and drink it in silence, I suggest downstairs. I would return and definitely recommend it."

Wild Rumpus

★★★★★ 4.7 (125) • $$

"Oh my gosh, what an incredibly whimsical bookstore. And the whimsy starts with the front door that is painted purple (I'm pretty sure it was purple). But there were actually two doors (that both opened), a small one for children and a normal sized one for the adult humans. I, of course, had to go through the small door. I wanted the full experience. The bookstore is insanely adorable. The book selection is fantastic. The decor is amazing and the staff is super nice. Walking in you want to look at ALL the books and you want to explore the whole store.And yes, they do have live animals (they're in cages...mostly). The front of the store is for your younger readers. As you make your way through to the back of the store, there are books for older readers. I could've spent all day in that bookstore probably. So many books I just wanted to explore and look at more. Great place for gifts or to take children.TLDR: definitely worth checking out especially for children"

Birchbark Books & Native Arts

★★★★★ 4.7 (41) • $$

"I visited Minneapolis with a friend for Memorial Day weekend, and we're both big readers and love to visit and support independent bookstores. When we were planning our weekend, we knew we had to stop at Birchbark! Owned by Native American author Louise Erdrich, Birchbark is committed to stocking Indigenous American authors and titles and has an amazing selection of books and other items! I loved visiting the store. It's tiny (and a little cramped) but lovely. Definitely check it out. Support your local independent bookstores (stepping off my soapbox now)!"

Well Read Books

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"My new "hot" spot in downtown Elk River! Grand opening of a new & used bookstore. Cozy spot along the downtown with a welcoming vibe! In this warm & friendly shop, they have dedicated about half the space to their children's area! Excellent service found here! Think the opposite of Barnes & Noble and more like the corner meeting bookshop! I found an unbelievable deal: The Ultimate Crochet Bible (hardback, 304 pages, brand new condition) for $13.95 (retail £25 in the UK, $29.95 in the US). I couldn't find this online for anywhere near this price, especially since it is in pristine condition. Lots of paperbacks, book bags, kids books-all new & used! Stop in and take a browse!"

The Vintage Storyteller

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"The Vintage Storyteller is a MUST VISIT on the 2024 Twin Cities Book Passport Route. From the cute table out front and bright green trim outside, we were excited. Upon entering we were met with an amazing maple scent (the candles are for sale!) and an offer to choose some songs from the jukebox (quarters provided). The books ranged from witchy, spiritual, cooking, self-improvement, and crafting. There even appeared to be some groups and upcoming events! I was honestly shocked when the owner mentioned that the store had only been open for about a year. She could have told me the store was passed down through generations and I would have believed it after seeing and feeling the vintage cozy of the shop.The owner was friendly, the books and curios were intriguing, and the vibes were cozy. A must-visit if you are looking for a hidden gem bookstore!"

Ben Around Books

★★★★★ 5 (3) • $

"Ben Around Books has the best selection of books that I have seen in a long time and I used to work at a book store when I went to college.The owners are fantastic and funny. They also have their own book for sale so get it signed while your there. Both owners are also military veterans who care about their community and treat each person who enters the store with dignity and respect. I look forward to seeing them monthly."

Legacy Toys

★★★★☆ 4 (1)

"Looks like a new store in the mall but unfortunately it can easily be missed. Legacy toys is located in the 2nd floor next to the entrance to the soon to open Dicks Sporting goods. Only reason we knew it was there was a sign by AT&T store saying there's a toy store. It's so far down the hallway it is easily missed. Great selection of toys , puzzles and games. Prices are pretty standard and the lady there was very nice . Will definitely be stopping by again."

Moon Palace Books

★★★★★ 4.5 (32) • $$

"Wow. I've bicycled by here many times, meaning to stop some rainy day and I needed a good book. A bookstore with a coffee/pizza place in the back. Don't forget to check out the used books upstairs!"

Kappa Toys

★★★★★ 4.5 (2)

"I love LOVE how bright and vibrant the store is. They have so many options of toys from Sonny Angels, Smikis, and more. Great customer service and affordable pricing!"

Memories of Home

★★★★★ 5 (3) • $

"This is a great store! It is a faith-based store filled with spiritual and uplifting items for the home. Every time I come here to buy a gift for someone, I end up buying five or six additional items. The store owner, Joann, is extremely warm-hearted and helpful. Yesterday, my wife and I stopped by the store to purchase a Christmas gift for that "hard to buy for" person. Joann walked around the store with us pulling out items she thought might be appropriate. Her ideas were spot-on. We ended up buying one of her suggested items- and then, as usual, five or six other items. The prices are very reasonable and the store is very warm and inviting. It's worth the trip!"

Once Upon A Crime

★★★★★ 4.9 (16) • $$

"I'm a mystery buff. Grew up with Sherlock Holmes, Agatha Christie and Nancy Drew. I've graduated to Henning Menkel and Donna Leon and have fond memories of the Prey series among others. Simply put, I love myself a good crime story. For that reason, I can't believe it took me so long to go here as this is a mystery readers dream store. There are sooooo many books out there to choose from that I never knew about that my head is spinning. I need more hours in the day. The best part is that if you pop in during the day you can pick up a novel and head to Bulldog or even CC club and grab a drink and delve into your new adventure. It's a great independent bookstore, so support it!! And if they don't have what you need, they'll get it for you."

Dreamhaven Books & Comics

★★★★★ 4.7 (28) • $

"I LOVE THIS PLACE! What a quirky slice of heaven this bookstore is, truly a fanboys dream.having a wide variety of books of all genres in stock as well as a rom of memorabilia concerning such classics as Universal Monsters, Godzilla and others, walking in here give a you all the right "feels".the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, the store is the right amount of organized without losing the treasure hunters sense of discovery and it smells like literature. this is a regular stop every time I am in town. Thanks Dreamhaven!"

Eat My Words Bookstore

★★★★★ 4.8 (16) • $

"I went to the grand opening. I'd say this is a med. size, not ridiculously small or half-price large. Book cases are in neat rows, and labeled. They have one double row of Agatha Christie and a full single row of Rex Stout. They have a good variety and selection of most genres. So in general it's used books but they'll carry new local authors, which is the perfect combo. I introduced myself to Scott, the owner. This will be a good double destination. A block away you'll be able to check out your new purchases at Maeve's, and have a meal at the Anchor. Since there aren't any restaurants on the 2nd St. block, on street parking is not a problem."

Strive Bookstore

★★★★★ 5 (6)

"This store is simply a gem and the people who work there are incredibly welcoming. There is a great selection of books--mostly focused on African Americans and very well curated. They also have some nice gifts. I had fifteen minutes to look around before a meeting but I ended up coming back to buy some goodies! Affordable and locally owned. Check it out!"

Magers & Quinn Booksellers

★★★★★ 4.6 (126) • $$

"I've walked past this bookshop so many times, and when I needed to buy a hardcover book recently, instead of heading to Amazon I decided to order it through their online shop and pick up in person. WOW, I was not prepared for how massive this place is! From the outside it looks so quaint and small. NO, this shop goes on for what feels like miles, with shelves upon shelves of books inside. What a place to get lost for an afternoon!It was my first time in and the front cashier helped direct me to where I'd pick up my online order. The online order team was very helpful. I stopped to peruse and look around a bit, but know I'll have to come back for a full day of exploring. My online order was reasonably priced and great to have instore pickup to skip the shipping costs. I'll be back!"

Midway Used & Rare Books

★★★★☆ 3.8 (39) • $$

"Really surprised by the somewhat mixed reviews. This is the kind of gem you hope to find when you visit a new city for the first time. Lots of antique books as well as just a good selection in all topic areasWhat makes this place stand out though is the number of old pulp novels and magazines that's one of the best I've seenThey also have an outstanding comic book selection that has a lot of depth. Lots of back issues though you have to jump through some hoops to go through themPrices seemed more than reasonable for every book I picked up! This is a place I would spend hours in if I had the timeA grand discovery of you love books!"

Valley Bookseller

★★★★★ 4.5 (11) • $$

"Great selection for a small bookstore. When you spend $50 or more they let you pick a prereleased booked for free:"

Avant Garden

★★★★☆ 4 (85) • $

"Best Coffee shop in Anoka! The staff here is friendly, welcoming and warm! The upstairs bookstore is a great addition! We just live coming in to support this business!"

Big Hill Books

★★★★★ 4.5 (2)

"This is a very charming and eclectic bookstore, with quite an inventory of books! They also have home and garden merchandise, book-themed t-shirts, toys, puzzles, gifts and greeting cards. There's even a cozy basement space called "The Church Basement" with tables and chairs, and some comfy couches for book clubs and meetings. This morning, I participated in a ladies meeting, where we brought in our treats. Fresh brewed coffee was provided by the store! There's two friendly cats: Goose and Adso, a brother and sister tuxedo cat who are mascots to the bookstore, who came by to say hello! LOVE!"

James & Mary Laurie Booksellers

★★★★☆ 3.8 (13) • $$$$

"A fab bookstore, but perhaps a little high-end for my needs. I tend to inhale paperbacks, so a bookstore selling tomes and selling autographed copies is going to be more than I need. Great selection of lots and lots AND LOTS of books. I actually got a little lost exploring the fiction shelves downstairs."

Red Balloon Bookshop

★★★★☆ 4.3 (26) • $

"Ok, so ten years ago Red B. was kind of competing with Bound To Be Read across the street. I loved the latter because it was cuter AND every time I wanted a book, Red Balloon didn't have it and had to order it. Thanks, I'll just use Amazon.However, after all these years I decided to stop in to browse. Before my browse, I was in a Grinchy Christmas mood. Last minute gifts, no ideas, stressed out!Within two minutes I had found a book for every person on my list. These were books I hadn't ever heard of, but went with a series that they liked. Then I got caught up in all the signed copies of beautiful childrens book and yes let me tell you, my heart LITERALLY grew 3 sizes that day. I felt a swell of love for books and man-kind."

Paperbacks Plus Bookstore

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"I enjoyed my trip to this little independent used bookstore - it is packed with books. There are even nice signs hanging up over each genre/section so you can figure out where to look.I was just browsing but I left with several books. The lady had her two dogs at work with her but they were calm and stayed behind the counter. There was no pet odor even though they look to be frequent visitors. There's just the lovely smell of books :)I will be back!* side note - It looked like there might be several cute shops or cafes on this street to visit as well. I can also recommend the post office nearby as the clerk was helpful and friendly. Make a nice afternoon of it!"

Chapter2Books

★★★★☆ 4.2 (6)

"The new location isn't cramped. Angled Parking is still street but more spaces It's run by awesome owners, Brian and Sue, who support local authors of all genres and have many launches and signings. Very kid friendly. Only inconvenience is it's down a flight of stairs. They can't control the building and were lucky to get it when they were rushed out of the old one. My pet peeve is the fiction and mysteries are still mixed, but the sci-fi has its own spot. So much more room. They often have random books on sale. Many older books in hard cover. Sometimes there is no rhyme or reason to what they carry, but you will find something. Always a pleasant day trip to Hudson."

Boneshaker Books

★★★★★ 4.6 (16) • $$

"This review is best enjoyed with the following aperitif: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYiKdJoSsb8This bookstore is the best tool you'll find for putting your fury somewhere productive. The economy sucks! The corporations are buying our democracy! The earth is full of garbage! Kids these days have bad grammar and ugly shoes!Yah, yah, yah, fine- but you won't be able to do a damn thing about those helpful observations without getting yer facts straight first. That's why you need Boneshaker Books.They have books on everything you're mad about. Angry about capitalism? Please help yourself to dozens of books that suggest alternatives to our happy little (effed up) economic system. Sick of watching the feminist movement wheeze through its 40-year-old song and dance? Pick up a few books from writers on the vanguard of feminist theory who can give you the what-fer and some new ideas to bat around with your friends. Wanting to know why Minnesota is so freaking awesome? They have books on how the labor and progressive movement built this state to serve all Minnesotans, not just the wealthy few.They also have well-chosen fiction, some discount used books, Occupy publications, and a GREAT zine collection. Yes, their books are $15- but (prepare for the mantra) you've investing in your local radical community. It's good for you. It's a worthy investment.In the timeless words of En Vogue, "Free your mind/and the rest will follow.""

Olio Vintage

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"It describes itself as "A unique collective of specialty vintage retailers under one roof + local makers & artists."Hours: Open 11am-6pm daily (closed Tuesdays).I appreciated the open non-cluttered space in this store! Walking in didn't overwhelm me at all, and I found some cute household items in the back. They also had cookies and beverages out for shoppers. There is no bathroom in the store, so go before you walk in. The clerk was very helpful and even offered to call the artists when I had questions about how a piece of jewelry was made."

Mayday Bookstore

★★★★☆ 4.3 (15) • $$

"I love the progressive bookstore scene and this place is close to the top of the list. Found a number of books I'd put on my Amazon wish list. A very good selection on a number of topics. The only downside is they don't take CC's but then if they did it wouldn't make them very authentic. Great store."

Milkweed Editions Books

★★★★★ 4.8 (5) • $$

"Milkwood Edition Books is a small bookshop located within Open Book! My friend and I stopped by to visit when were exploring downtown Minneapolis over Memorial Day. It's small but well curated (there dozens of books that caught my eye - and tons of books I'd never heard of). They sell their own books (Milkweed is a publisher) but also lots of other books/authors. Definitely stop by if you're in Open Book!"

Next Chapter

★★★★☆ 4.3 (53) • $$

"My friend and I stopped by Next Chapter when we were visiting Minneapolis this weekend, and we were really impressed! It's a good size (not as tiny as some independent bookstores) and really well stocked (there were so many books I wanted to buy). The staff were really friendly, and the store was really well organized and laid out. Just a really nice independent bookstore!"