If you’re looking for an independent bookstore to peruse, West Michigan has you covered.
Grand Rapids alone has more local bookstores around the city than we can even cover here, thanks to so many people searching for an in-person shopping experience—not to mention the shops in outlying towns, along the lakeshore and in Kalamazoo. Even with the rise of e-books, many readers today want to hold books in their hands, to feel the pages, see the covers and even smell the ink.
It’s about forming a connection, but it’s also about supporting local, knowing the money is going to fellow book lovers who live in your community. Plus, these independent bookstores host events, sell unique and rare used books you won’t find online, and ensure quality.
So if you’re looking to get out and get shopping, here are some favorite independent bookstores around West Michigan.
Books & Mortar
966 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids
booksandmortar.com
In 2016, Books & Mortar opened doors, and they’ve only grown in size and scope since. Proudly identifying as a “progressive, consciously curated, and fiercely independent bookstore,” they’re all about fighting for books through community support, diverse and inclusive readings, critical thought and justice advocacy. If you love books and want to make the world a better place for everyone—while having fun along the way—these are your people.
Cellar Bird Books
415 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids
cellarbirdbooks.com
Cellar Bird joined the lively Bridge Street at the end of last year, bringing an independent bookstore option to the West Side. The shop is cozy as can be and carefully curated by owner Lea Kocurek, who stocks all genres but has a keen eye for literary and contemporary fiction—alongside plenty of puzzles and other gift items that pair perfect with reading, like candles and bookmarks. Plus, Cellar Bird is building a community, and invites you to join one of three monthly book clubs!
Schuler Books
2660 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids
schulerbooks.com
True OGs of the independent books scene, Schuler Books was founded in 1982 and has held strong on 28th Street for over 40 years now. You’ll find thousands of books across every genre and age range here, alongside vinyl records, puzzles, toys, book accessories, comfy home goods and more—not to mention the Chapbook Café, perfect for meeting friends or cracking open a book while enjoying a hot bev.
Argos Book Shop
1405 Robinson Rd. SE, Grand Rapids
facebook.com/@argosbookshop
If you like used books and/or comics, Argos is a little slice of heaven. It’s the perfect place to find classic books with cool vintage designs, and at a cheaper price than brand-new. In the same Eastown location since 1975, Argos is beloved locally for its huge selection of both books and comics in a relatively small space, excellent staff, and great vibes. Plus: They have Pokemon and Magic cards!
Pages & Grapes
1760 44th St. SW, Wyoming
pagesandgrapes.com
Do you love romance? Do you love romance so much, you don’t even particularly care to read other genres? Then Pages & Grapes is the place to be, as this unique new romance-only bookstore in Wyoming is all about transporting readers to enchanting worlds of love. In addition to its literary offerings, the shop features an elegant selection of locally sourced wines, enhancing the overall experience. More than just a bookstore, Pages & Grapes wants to be a community space that embraces romance and celebrates life’s finer pleasures.
Black Dog Books and Records
959 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids
blackdoggr.square.site
Black Dog is a used bookstore and record shop for the modern times, unapologetically progressive and driven by owner William Moore’s taste and philosophy. They love to buy and sell books on labor, LGBTQ issues, Black studies, horror, poetry, art and current fiction. They do not buy or sell history books, romance novels, or most biographies. That said, no matter what you enjoy, with a backstock of approximately 8,000 used books, you’re sure to find something for you here.
The Bookman
715 Washington Ave., Grand Haven
bookmanbookstore.indielite.org
At The Bookman, they believe bookstores play an essential role in community, offering a “third place” for people to converse, collaborate and relax. They strive to foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere not only through a diverse selection of both new and used books, magazines and a whole lot of gifts, but through experiences such as author presentations, poetry readings, art displays, bookclubs, storytimes and even live concerts. This shop has been going strong since 1974 for a reason—great vibes, great people, great books, and of course, a cute store cat.
Book Cellar
8 N. 7th St., Grand Haven
facebook.com/usedbooksgh
The Book Cellar is a beloved independent bookstore in Grand Haven, committed to connecting readers with amazing authors and unforgettable stories. They sell both new and consignment books of all types, as well as rare and autographed books. And on March 22, they’ll be a big part of the 3rd Coast Author & Book Festival, bringing more than 100 national and local authors to Grand Haven throughout the day—with a VIP evening event to boot!
This is a bookstore & Bookbug
3019 Oakland Dr., Kalamazoo
bookbugkalamazoo.com
If you were wondering: Yes, this is a bookstore is a bookstore. And so is Bookbug, and they’re related! This indie Kalamazoo shop spans two adjacent locations: this is a bookstore, featuring adult interest titles, with focus on literary fiction, nonfiction, contemporary politics and graphic novels, and Bookbug, focused entirely on children’s books. With over 7,000 square feet of combined space, the store also features a full service cafe/bar and hosts many events, including: adult book fairs, author readings, workshops, trivia nights, musical performances, book clubs, story times and more.
The Book Nook
242 Butler St., Saugatuck
booknooksaugatuck.com
This locally owned, independent bookstore is open year-round, featuring gently used and new books, puzzles, local photography and literary gifts. Come enjoy personalized, friendly service with small town charm.
