Instagram Inspiration: Our Fave Local Bookstores

A book lover's guide to the quirkiest independent bookstores in Seattle

By Kate Murphy October 14, 2015

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Seattleites love books. As the second most literate city in the country, it’s no surprise that our town is filled with eccentric independent bookstores. Everyone is partial to their own faves, but these Instagrammers showcase local bookstores that attract all types of bookworms.

Unfamiliar with any these gems? This weekend provides the perfect opportunity to explore! Some bookstores are throwing fun events, so check out our list below for more details!

1. Ophelia’s Books
Located in Fremont, this secondhand bookstore offers fiction, mysteries and an array of other eclectic titles. Also, this store features a beautiful spiral staircase, and it is one of two stores on our list with a live-in cat!
Photo credit: @ajcalhoun

2. Elliott Bay Book Company
Potentially the most popular independent bookstore in Seattle, Elliott Bay, located on Capitol Hill, features a wide variety of books within its multi-level space. There are frequent events and author readings, which are showcased on the bookstore’s website. For example, singer-songwriter,Sara Bareilles, will be signing copies of her new book, Sounds Like Me: My Life (So Far) in Song, tonight!
Photo credit: @jujonesy

3. Ada’s Technical Books
Named in honor of the British mathematician and writer, Ada Lovelace, this bookstore offers a collection of new and used books relating to computers, math and physics. While the books cater to Capitol Hill’s tech-savvy, all are welcome to study and work in this bright, modern space. Pay homage to Lovelace and other STEM women this weekend by stopping in the store and belatedly celebrating Ada Lovelace Day, which happened this past Tuesday.
Photo credit: @rchardla

4. Left Bank Books
Operated since 1973, this Pike Place bookstore carries more than 10,000 new and used books, including many small-press publications. The store features a wide range of specialized topics, including feminist studies, racial and cultural studies, anarchism and more.
Photo credit: @_raynboww

5. Twice Sold Tales
Twice Sold Tales, located on Capitol Hill, sells used books of all types, including literary fiction, science fiction and mysteries. Like Ophelia’s, you can expect to witness (and pet) cats lounging around throughout the store.
Photo Credit: @andjelkaj

 

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