Charleston is home to many great bookstores that are known for bringing the community together by uniting seasoned readers and newfound bookworms alike. What better place to bask in the sun with a book than in the Holy City? Whether you’re looking for a quaint shop to purchase a book and go or a place to unwind and discuss, Charleston has the bookshop that is your perfect match!
Nestled downtown, Buxton Books is an easily accessible bookstore for both visiting and local bookworms. Selling best sellers, literary classics, and unique titles from local authors, they have acquired a vast and diverse selection of books to choose from. Buxton Books is also known for hosting author events, such as Meet the Author, city tours, in addition to events such as The Lost Stories of Black Charleston and The Ghosts of Charleston. Their website includes a virtual book catalogue so you can shop from the comfort of your own home or feel out the store before visiting. For more information about their inventory, events, and staff, visit their website!
- 160 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
Blue Bicycle Books is housed in a quaint and historic Charleston building downtown, matching the signature nostalgic charm of the city. Their inventory includes new, used, and rare to find books, making it literary gem. Among their curated selection, highlights include paperback fiction, military history, literary classics, modern firsts, children’s books, and even cookbooks, which are also available to view online. The bookstore knows that connection to the community is of utmost importance, which is why they are known for hosting events such as book signings, readings, and the annual YALLFest, which is a young adult book festival that attracts authors and readers nationwide. Additionally, the offer a children’s reading and writing camp and post poems written by local elementary students. To access information about their book selection, events, and staff, visit their web page!
- 420 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Philosophers and Fools is a great option for those with a taste for the unusual. Not only is it a bookstore, but it also serves as a bar and cafe. While you’re reading from their vast collection, relax and have a beverage, snack, toastie, or exquisite wines or beer! Community is a top priority as seen in their dedication to blending intellectual curiosity and socialization. To set themselves apart, Philosophers and Fools promises to foster open dialogue and conversation about pieces of literature and encourages discussion in their store. Aside from the reading, conversation, and dining options, the store hosts a podcast and offers a venue for book clubs to meet up and socialize! To check out their schedule, dive into book discussion, or view their menu, check out their website!
- 50 Bogard St Suite A, Charleston, SC 29403
An indépendant bookstore in North Charleston, Itinerant Literature is deemed as Charleston’s neighborhood bookshop! The shop is mobile and travels wherever you can dream of, especially schools, parks, and other community areas. From the classics to modern contemporary, Itinerate has it all. Aside from their selection, the store offers online book requests if you’re hunting for a book and can’t seem to find it. Additionally, they offer gift cards and book packages for seasoned readers and customers to reap rewards as they read on the go! You can also preorder signed books! For more information about their schedule, events, book selection, of gift ideas, visit their website!
- 4824 Chateau Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
Located in Mount Pleasant, The Village Bookseller is a small shop with a large selection. From classics to children’s books, fiction to non-fiction, they promise a valuable selection for every visit. They emphasize the importance of book discussion and host bookclubs multiple times per month for various book styles and genres, such as memoirs, mystery, and historical-fiction. They also have a large selection of audio books to choose from if that is your preference! Additionally, the store is open 7 days a week ensuring that you can get your literary fix whenever is most convenient for you! For book selection, audio books, book clubs dates and information, and anticipated literature, check out their web page!
- 761 Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
If you’re searching for a more economical way to dig into new literature, Trade a Book in Mount Pleasant is the place for you! While book purchasing is an option, shoppers are welcomed in to trade in their gently used books in exchange for another in the shop! They offer an online inventory as well, so you can search before going in, or even submit a book request! Their shelves are fully shocked, so you’re sure to find a new book to read and fall in love with, whether you want contemporary or classic books. For more information on accessing online inventory or book requests, visit their facebook page!
- 1303 Ben Sawyer Blvd #3, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Pop into and buy from or sit and enjoy a book in one of these stores! Whether you’re just getting into your book-loving journey or are a veteran bookworm looking for new book spots and reads, you’re sure to find your perfect fit. Purchase or trade books, wine and dine, or purchase gifts! Happy reading!
Written by Alexis Boatner
