Books have been a refuge for me ever since I was little. Not just reading, although I have been known to stay up until the wee hours of the morning to get through one more chapter or to power through an entire book in a day because I couldn’t put it down. Rather, simply shopping for my next book has become almost as much of a getaway as actually reading it. (I give all credit to the magic that is a Scholastic Book Fair.) There’s just something magnetic about being surrounded by stories, quite literally immersed in a world of possibilities. Fortunately, from used-book treasure troves to an independent shop that spotlights BIPOC authors, there are several bookstores in the Rochester, MN, area where fellow book lovers can go for their next read.
Rochester, MN, Bookstores
Although you can find just about anything at big-box booksellers like Barnes & Noble, I’ve since become partial to independent stores with small-town charm. Think lovingly curated collections of new titles and stack upon haphazard stack of used hardcovers and paperbacks. That’s just what you’ll find at these Rochester bookstores.
Friends Bookstore
Used Bookstore
Located inside the Rochester Public Library, Friends Bookstore is a community labor of love, with a staff made up exclusively of volunteers and the proceeds of every purchase going straight back into the library, helping to grow its collection. Operated by the Friends of the Public Library, the bookstore features an array of previously loved books, either donations or former library books, as well as CDs, DVDs, audiobooks and puzzles—all in good condition and at reasonable prices. Although the shop is on the small side, the books on offer turn over frequently, so feel free to return on the regular to see what’s new in stock. While items available at Friends Bookstore are already very affordable, visit during one of their four annual auditorium sales for even more savings.
Address: 101 2nd St SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Garden Party Books
Used Bookstore
You won’t find a cuter used bookstore in Rochester, MN, than Garden Party Books. Painted with classic titles on the outside and filled with an expansive selection inside, this independent bookstore was made with readers in mind. Rooms are arranged by theme, many with décor to match. Like the Romance Room, a cozy nook draped with flowers and the words “Happily Ever After,” and the Murder Room, which invites shoppers to peruse a mix of mystery, thriller and horror, all beneath a ceiling bedecked with caution tape, cobwebs and blood splatters. Candles, cards, craft kits and art prints are also available for purchase. Literary lovers can also take advantage of occasional events, including local book launches, story time with local authors, craft nights and poetry readings. Be sure to visit during the week of your birthday to score a free book.
Address: 602 7th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Griot Arts
New & Used Bookstore and Art Gallery
Part of the magic of reading is that, in a way, each page allows you to step into the life of someone else for a while. Sometimes, the character’s life speaks to the reader’s own experience. Other times (and, honestly, my favorite times), a character sheds light on a place, people or point of view that might be quite different from your own, fostering understanding and camaraderie despite your differences. That’s what Griot Arts is all about. One of the few independent bookstores in Rochester, MN, to sell largely new books, this creative hub centers the experiences of BIPOC communities, from its lovingly curated collection of BIPOC authors to works by local and regional BIPOC artists. Check out one of the bookstore’s special events—like craft and mental health workshops, poetry nights, and kids’ story hour—or simply shop for your next read and enjoy the space’s impeccable vibes. Think vibrant colors, kaleidoscopic African wax-print textiles, woven bowls, and rattan seating. Hours are limited (currently Wednesday and Friday from 11:30 AM-5 PM and Saturday from 11:30 AM-2 PM).
Address: 115 N Broadway Ave, Rochester, MN 55906
Paperback Book Palace
Used Bookstore
Looking for your next sweet or spicy read? Then Paperback Book Palace is the place for you. Small but mighty, this used bookstore–the oldest in Rochester–is positively chock full of previously owned titles. Although there is a wide variety of genres on offer, almost a third of the store is devoted to romance novels. That said, you can also find a smaller array of everything from novels, mysteries, and biographies to Christian fiction, children’s books, and self-help selections. Pricing at Paperback Book Palace is incredibly straightforward, with each book set at 53% of the publisher’s cover price. A trade-in credit of 15% of a book’s cover price is given to those who bring in books to add to the bookstore’s collection.
Address: 4106 18th Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Peacock Books & Wildlife Art
New & Used Bookstore
Peacock Books & Wildlife Art is a family affair. Ran by Lisa Loucks-Christenson, an author, illustrator, and wildlife photographer, and her husband, this independent Rochester bookstore features an extensive collection of both new and used books, as well as artwork by Loucks-Christenson. Works by local and regional authors, including those by the owner herself, are on offer, and first editions and signed copies are available. And unlike Paperback Book Palace, which only sells softcovers, Peacock Books has a wide array of hardcovers. Recently moved to a new location in Hillcrest Shopping Center, the bookstore’s collection will likely continue to grow as they unpack and get moved in. So, be sure to check back to see what new treasures have been unboxed. The service at Peacock Books is also exceptional, as the owners are eager to help shoppers find their next read and share their experience as an author and artist.
Address: 1618 Hwy 52 N, Rochester, MN 55901
Southeastern Minnesota Bookstores Worth Driving For
If you’re anything like me, then you don’t mind driving an hour or more to check out a still-unexplored bookstore. What’s that you say? A new-to-me used bookshop? Sign. Me. Up. Sure, I might go home empty-handed, but I could also leave with a sizeable stack for less than $50. Either way, I’m walking out the door as happy as a clam.
Whether you’re simply looking for an excuse to get out of Rochester for a bit or, like me, you enjoy the thrill of the chase, these Minnesota bookstores are less than an hour away and well worth the trip.
Chapter 2 Books | Winona
Used Bookstore
Located in Winona’s historic downtown area, Chapter 2 Books is a used bookstore that helps connect titles in its collection with new homes. The bookstore spans two floors and plays host to more than 20,000 books, with new selections arriving almost every day. With such a wide selection spanning an array of genres, you’re sure to find at least one new-to-you read to take home. Other merchandise is available for purchase, including CDs, vinyl records, book-related mugs and shirts, toys, action figures, and more. There is also an impressive amount of comic books and graphic novels, ranging from 25 cents to highly collectible and from the 1960s to today.
Address: 125 E 3rd St, Winona, MN 55987
Paperbacks and Pieces | Winona
Used Bookstore
Hoping for a sizeable selection and great deals? Then, you’ll definitely want to plan a trip to Paperbacks and Pieces in Winona. Home to more than 40,000 titles, with 90% being gently used and 10% being new, Paperbacks and Pieces is the largest used bookstore in the city. It’s also the oldest, first opening its doors all the way back in 1977. With such a sprawling collection on offer, representing genres from art to young adult fiction, as well as “Pieces” like jewelry, purses, wallets, cards, bookmarks, craft kits and much more, you won’t go home empty-handed. Pricing for used titles is simple and straightforward at 50% off the cover price.
Address: 429 Mankato Ave, Winona, MN 55987
Content Bookstore | Northfield
New Bookstore
If it’s crisp pages and a short day trip you’re after, consider making your way to Content Bookstore in Northfield. Located in the downtown area, only a few minutes’ walk from the Cannon River Walk, this centrally situated independent bookstore is a welcome departure from big-box stores. Offering a wide variety of new books, including an expansive children’s section with plushies and toys, you’ll find something for the whole family at Content Bookstore. There are even board games, puzzles, arts and crafts, greeting cards and stationery available. Plan your visit around one of the bookstore’s events, like author readings and kids’ story time, or stop by when checking out everything else that Northfield has to offer.
Address: 314 Division St S, Northfield, MN 55057
Fair Trade Books | Red Wing
New & Used Bookstore
If there’s one thing that I love more than books, it’s dogs—and Fair Trade Books in Red Wing has both. Not only are visitors to this independent bookstore greeted by an extensive array of both used and new books, but they are welcomed by a shop dog, too. (Which, between you and me, is more than enough to make me want to visit.) Nestled in Red Wing’s downtown area in a historic building, the bookstore’s setting is almost as charming as its furry greeter and features original tin ceilings and well-trod hardwood floors. Also available for purchase are Persian rugs, fair-trade gifts and puzzles. New visitors receive an extra-special welcome. I won’t spoil the surprise, so be sure to ask about their first-visit tradition!
Address: 320 Bush St #2526, Red Wing, MN 55066
Sweet Reads Books and Candy | Austin
New & Used Bookstore
Do you like to snack on something sugary when you read? Well, you’re in luck because Sweet Reads Books and Candy in Austin has everything you need for your next day off. Located across the street from the Spam Museum, this bookstore-meets-candy shop offers a varied shopping experience with new and used books, including many by Minnesota authors, comic books, magazines, classic candies and goods by local artisans. As whimsical as it is eclectic, the store is decorated from the floor to its curlicued ceiling with cozy seating, a literary forest and even a 30-foot-long locomotive. Meet-and-greets with local authors are also offered.
Address: 407 Main St N, Austin, MN 55912
Which do you prefer—independent bookstores or big-box booksellers? Leave a comment below!
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