The Denver independent book scene is one that will spark your literary curiosity. There are many unique and diverse shops across the Denver Metro Area; some have been in business for more than 40 years. While each business has its own identity, they all have two things in common - their love for literature and dedication to the community. Avid readers can find their people through book clubs and discussion groups. Educators can access affordable resources and support, and locals can broaden their literary horizons.
Here are some of our favorite independent bookstores in Denver with a passion for the community.
The Bookies Bookstore
4315 E. Mississippi Avenue, Denver CO
50 years ago, owner Sue Lubeck sought out to create a magical bookstore for the children of Denver in service to the community. Today, the Bookies is a magical community-focused bookstore with a mission to support literacy, freedom of expression, diversity, equality, inclusion, and environmental stability. In keeping with its mission, 10% of all book sales are donated to the local non-profits, and support an incredible program called Fill The Shelves, allowing customers to help support a local teacher's classroom library.
Photo Credit: Mutiny Information CafÃ
Mutiny Information CafÃ
2 S. Broadway, Denver CO
The epicenter of all things creative, the Mutiny is a bookstore, comic book store, record store, coffee bar, breakfast bar, and live event spot right in the heart of Denver. Enjoy a fabulous drip or French Press while browsing their literary favorites. You can even order whole beans from their beautiful new Trinidad, CO coffee roasting facility.
The Book Rack
4061 E. Wesley Avenue, Denver CO
University Hill's very own used book store. The Book Rack has been a neighborhood staple in the literary community, by offering a trade-in program so you never have to worry about an overflowing book collection. Next door is Kokoro, a fabulous Japanese restaurant with a drive through. A great option for a book club night out!
Photo Credit: The Hermitage Bookshop
The Hermitage Bookshop
290 Fillmore Street, Denver CO
The antiquarian book sellers and dealers of Denver, Hermitage Bookshop has one of the most incredible selection of rare and out of print books. Located in the heart of Cherry Creek North, Hermitage is considered one of the oldest independent bookstores in Denver, creating a unique experience for book lovers to feed their love of literature.
Printed Page Bookshop
1416 S. Broadway, Denver CO
Printed Page is Denver's first ever literary co-op, with more than 10 different participating booksellers. Dedicated to the independent, community focused, used-bookstore, Printed Page prides themselves on creating a relationship-based experience for their readers and collectors. In search of something specific? They'll put their years of literary industry experience to work and find you just about any title or genre!
Shop at Matter
2134 Market Street, Denver CO
Perfect for the creative, Shop at Matter is a black and women-owned indie bookstore that sells so much more than books. It is a retail and community space for designers and creatives to share their incredible works of art while provoking thoughtful and insightful conversations through book clubs and events. Enjoy every inch of their store in the Ballpark neighborhood, or check out their selection online.
Photo credit: Lampoon Magazine
Tattered Cover Book Store
Colfax Avenue, Aspen Grove, McGregor Square, Union Station, Westminster, Stanley Marketplace, Park Meadows, Colorado Springs
A Denver institution, Tattered Cover Book Store has a total of eight unique stores across Colorado, each offering a well curated selection of books, local gifts, and a calendar of literary events. Each store is unique and offers something special. At their Stanley Market location, they have a dedicated children's section, Colorado Springs, Westminster, and Colfax locations feature a local eatery, Best Cellars, for guests to enjoy.
Whether you are interested in exploring a new genre or geeking out over rare literary classics with fellow bookworms, the community of independent bookstores in Denver will satisfy your literary hunger.
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