12 Independent Bookstores for Readers Around the Main Line

These Main Line area bookstores have something for every reader, from well-known page-turners to brand-new titles.

The Main Line region is full of bookstores stocked with a variety of exciting and informative reads. Embrace your inner bookworm and get ready to cozy up with a good book, or plan a night out to meet readers with similar interests. Depending on when you go, the shops may offer wine, coffee, signings and more. Ready to plan your visit?

New Books

Main Point Books

116 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Main Point Books (@mainpointbooks)

- Advertisement -

Main Point Books curates a selection of titles that aims to have something for everyone. As a self-described “safe haven,” its goal is to provide a space in which people can celebrate a great book. The cozy spot offers book groups, from sci-fi to Girls in Capes, to celebrate literature written by and focusing on individuals from diverse backgrounds. Swing by for your next read, and be sure to check the shop’s events calendar for updated information on group meetings and author signings. 

Narberth Bookshop

221 Haverford Ave., Narberth

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Narberth Bookshop (@narberthbookshop)

This quaint indie bookstore fills its shelves with stories that the staff believes are valuable to locals. With great picks, the avid reader might even look into the shop’s membership program, which grants discounts to special orders, hardcover and paperback books. Stop by for an event or pop in to browse the latest offerings. Feel free to bring your pooch as well when visiting this pup-friendly shop. 

Open Book Bookstore

7900 High School Rd., Elkins Park

- Partner Content -

Open Book helps readers discover their next favorite story and is the perfect place to enjoy local talent or partake in a monthly book discussion. This community staple fosters its reading community with writing classes for children, book launch parties, author cabarets and literary soirees. From the classics down to Y/A and children’s books, Open Book has a carefully curated selection that aims to have something for everyone to enjoy. 

The Towne Book Center and Wine Bar

160 Market St., Collegeville

From its curated book guides to help you find your next great read to its wine bar stocked by a local winery, Towne Book Center approaches reading in exciting and innovative ways. With the Reading Olympics, 13 separate book clubs and multiple author readings a month, there’s always something going on at Towne Book Center for all ages. Of course, you can simply stop by for a glass of vino and a book suggestion as well.

- Advertisement -

Wellington Square Bookshop

549 Wellington Sq., Exton

Order a specialty coffee and cozy up with a good book at Wellington Square Bookshop, whose owner interviews authors on his radio show, “The Avid Reader.” With children’s story time, journaling workshops and a variety of book clubs, Wellington provides book-related activities for the whole family.

Bookish

160 N Gulph Rd., King of Prussia

This author-owned bookshop focuses on hardcovers, new releases and hard-to-come-by special edition books. Beyond a carefully curated selection of titles, Bookish also sells hand-crafted gifts and souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for a new favorite author or a surprise for an avid reader, Bookish has it all. 

Children’s Book World

17 Haverford Station Rd., Haverford

For 35 years Children’s Book World has stood the test of time in Havertown, drawing hungry young readers from across the region. For further info on this bookstore, read more here.

Reads & Company

234 Bridge St., Phoenixville

Featuring novels across all genres, Reads & Company is a Phoenixville staple. With ongoing events like book clubs, author visits and signings, plus a prime location with plenty of coffee shops, breweries and parks within walking distance, the shop is a great place to stop for a new book to take with you on the day’s adventure. 

Mavey Books

8 Cricket Ave., Ardmore

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mavey Books (@maveybooks)

Check out the newly opened Mavey Books for the latest indie bestsellers. With book clubs throughout the month, the store invites people to drop in to chat with other readers during these community-oriented events. Mavey Books also distributes titles by local, self-published authors, so be sure to show your support and check out the selection while browsing for your next read. 

New & Used Books

Cathy’s Half Price Books

1305 West Chester Pke., Havertown

From signed first editions to out-of-print titles, Cathy’s is sure to be among your favorite spots to explore authors of all decades. It recently expanded to include both new and used books, as well as literary gifts and accessories. If looking to refresh your home library, be sure to schedule an appointment in advance to trade in a few used books in exchange for  bookstore credit. 

Used Books

Baldwin’s Book Barn

865 Lenape Rd., West Chester

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Benjamin 📷 (@bgrassophoto)

This historic four-story building is chock-full of nooks and secondhand books. Inside, you’ll find an array of New World literature, maps and prints. A wood-burning stove gives the space a warm, erudite atmosphere—though some still think it’s haunted.

The Title Page

1 Franklin St., Bryn Mawr

Stocked with used books, antiquarian volumes and out-of-print novels, The Title Page is a book collector’s dream. Along with its wide selection of literature, the bookstore specializes in tomes relating to sporting, fine bindings and architecture.

Related: Pick up These Fall Reads From Main Line Area Authors

Our Best of the Main Line Nomination Ballot is open through January 8!