Boston's Best Independent Bookstores
338 Newbury St.
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 267-8688
tridentbookscafe.com
Trident Bookstore in Boston's Back Bay is one of the most beloved bookstores in the city — and not just for its books. Trident also serves affordable, tasty meals on their first floor. They are best known for their breakfast, but book lovers can grab a snack here any time of day, since they are open from 8 a.m. until midnight. Their long hours make Trident a perfect spot to study or get some work done. They self-proclaimed "indie" bookstore is especially popular among college students and 20-somethings, which isn't too surprising given the shop's proximity to Berkeley School of Music and Boston University.
Brattle Book Shop
9 West St.
Boston, MA 02111
(617) 542-0210
www.brattlebookshop.com
Brattle Book Shop is one of Boston's most special gems. Located in downtown crossing, a short walk from the financial district and Boston Common, Brattle Book Shop has thousands of offerings including rare and antique books. Behind the store is a little outdoor nook filled with books! This picturesque spot is a favorite of Boston area instagrammers and bloggers, but of course most regulars come for the books.
The Coop
84 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) 499-3240
www.thecoop.com
The name "coop" stands for the book cooperative between Harvard University and MIT. Two of the most prestigious schools in America are located basically next door to each other, meaning their book store collaboration is the best in the nation. Each school is host to a location of The Coop, where students can buy their textbooks, tourists can purchase university apparel and book-lovers can find one of the largest independent selections of best sellers and classics.
Brookline Booksmith
279 Harvard St.
Brookline, MA 02446
(617) 566-6660
www.brooklinebooksmith.com
Brookline Booksmith has won Boston Magazine's Best Bookstore of Boston award countless times over the decades. The small shop has earned their place as the greater Boston area's favorite book shop. One of the main reasons for this is Brookline Booksmith's fantastic event programming. They invite authors to do readings, participate in panels and do book signings. They also have events for children, which is a perfect fit for the family-oriented Brookline community.
More Than Words Bookstore
242 E Berkeley St.
Boston, MA 02118
(781) 788-0035
www.mtwyouth.org
More Than Words is one of the lesser known book stores in Boston, but it is great for book lovers on a budget. Located next to the SOWA Open Market, More Than Words has the same warehouse vibe that is great for people who like to dig for great finds. While the newest, hottest books aren't always in stock, this used book store usually has last season's favorite for seriously discounted prices. All of the books in the store are between $1 - $5. What makes this book store particularly special is that it is run by city youth. They get priceless work experience and business savvy in a nurturing work environment.
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Cameron Bruns is the founder of BostonGreenBlog.com and co-author of Just Us Gals Boston. She lives in Boston's North End, where her goal is to promote ethical, stylish, and sustainable lifestyle choices to all Boston residents. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
