Snowy adventures in the mountains might dominate your winter bucket list. But with icy weather and longer hours of darkness, this season also welcomes a slower pace. When better to curl up with a page-turner, contemplate poetry or pour over chapters of non-fiction?
While national chains cater to the masses, the Denver metro area is home to a host of independent bookstores where your dollars are better spent. Swap used books, explore various niches and engage in community events at Denver’s best book stores.
West Side Books
West Side Books has been a Highland neighborhood treasure since 1997. Breathe in the scent of worn pages as you peruse its floor-to-ceiling shelves, each bearing used and brand-new volumes. The wide selection is organized by author and topic, such as outdoor expeditions and local writers. If you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, ask one of the knowledgeable staff members for a recommendation or enjoy a spontaneous pick from its rotating discount rack. westsidebooks.com
Printed Page Bookshop
Situated on South Broadway’s antique row, the Printed Page Bookshop is a gem for rare editions. Free book collecting classes further cater to hobbyists, with insights on identification, restoration and more. However, every reader will find a new favorite title at this co-op. Nine sellers, which include librarians, writers and teachers, contribute a range of expertise. Step into this historic Victorian home to browse the gently used selection and expect to be warmly greeted by one of three co-owners and the sweetest shop dog. printedpagebookshop.com
Mutiny Information Cafe
Farther down South Broadway lies Mutiny Information Cafe, an Englewood shop stocked with secondhand books, new and used comics, vinyl records and pop culture memorabilia. Dings of pinball machines, a lively playlist and the hiss of the cafe’s espresso machine fill the space, as does friendly banter among shoppers. In short, the atmosphere is the exact opposite of what you’d find at a library—in all the best ways. mutinyinfocafe.com
READ MORE: Boulder County’s Best Used Bookstores
Petals & Pages
Petals & Pages is a queer, woman-owned bookshop complete with fresh bouquets, curated homeware, local art and, very soon, a Sappho coffee bar. Centered on community, this space within the Art District on Santa Fe hosts book clubs and writing workshops, along with craft and game nights. Attend an event or simply pop in to browse its new and used selection. It includes LGBTQ+ titles and inclusive children’s books, plus genres ranging from poetry to contemporary fiction. petalsandpagesofdenver.com
The Shop at Matter
The Shop at Matter is a Black- and woman-owned collective within downtown’s Ballpark District. Its bookstore emphasizes authors of color and queer writers, with many titles on activism and social justice. It also houses a printshop, an art and home goods selection, a design studio and public events including book clubs, film screenings and educational workshops. It’s easy to spend hours in this eclectic space. shopatmatter.com
Second Star to the Right
Founded by former elementary school teachers, Second Star to the Right is one of Denver’s best family attractions. This cozy shop on South Pearl Street caters to a range of reading levels, from children’s board books to young adult novels. Toys and games round out the selection, which the store’s owners thoughtfully curate but don’t treat too preciously. Kids are welcome to explore and play, especially during free story time events. secondstartotherightbooks.com
The Hermitage Bookshop
Open in Cherry Creek since 1973, The Hermitage Bookshop is the oldest independent bookstore in Denver. Collectible and antiquarian books are its specialty, with shelves holding beautifully bound first editions, Victorian yellowbacks and other rare finds. The extensive selection also includes secondhand hardcovers and affordable copies, all carefully organized throughout its cozy basement level. hermitagebooks.com
Spicy Librarian
Since its January debut, Spicy Librarian has been on the lips of lots of local romance readers. Its brick-clad building in the River North Art District features snug rooms organized by sub-genre. One spotlights dark, sultry stories; another features fantasy romance novels, like the best-selling Empyrean series by local author Rebecca Yarros. Thumb through sections dedicated to LGBTQ+ and BIPOC writers, contemporary fiction titles and extra-spicy adult picks hidden behind a bookshelf doorway. spicylibrarian.com
