Most Community-Centered Bookstores In Minnesota
Community bookstores transfer an individual's love of books into a magical place to be shared with the public. Most often, these local gems cater to specific titles and feature regional authors. Book clubs supported by these bookstores foster community and literacy among the locals and help encourage budding authors as well. So, after you get tired of the same wooden shelves and carbon-copied displays found at your local Barnes & Noble, travel to one of these local bookstores for a literary adventure.
2720 W. 43rd St.
Minneapolis, MN 55410
(612) 920-5005
www.wildrumpusbooks.com
Located in the quaint Linden Hills neighborhood, this children's bookstore is named for a famous line in "Where the Wild Things Are." Children are welcome to come through the child-sized door and enter the store that contains a tree fort, tiny benches and animals wandering the shop. Author events are common inside this bookshop and story hours are conducted weekly. Local elementary schools often travel on field trips to this small shop to enjoy a tale of fantasy or humor as well. Adults can also curl up with a kitty and a book from the 'grown-up' selection.
Red Balloon Bookshop
891 Grand Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55105
(651) 224-8320
www.redballoonbookshop.com
Another haven for child book lovers, the Red Balloon is located on historic Grand Avenue in St. Paul. This neighborhood shop offers book fairs to support the community as well as author events and storytime hours. The Red Balloon Bookshop also works hard to support regional authors and promotes Minnesota history through fiction and non-fiction selections. Check out the calendar to attend a special event or drop in anytime to browse.
The Book Cliffs
161 Pembroke Ave.
Wabasha, MN 55981
(651) 565-5312
www.bookcliffs.com
Located right in the center of the quaint community of Wabasha, The Book Cliffs serves as the only local bookstore in this small town. Owned and operated by an independent businesswoman, this store carries affordable new and used books of all genres. The Book Cliffs also specializes in local history, Native American literature and Mississippi River tales.
Valley Bookseller
217 N. Main St.
Stillwater, MN 55082
(651) 430-3385
www.valleybookseller.com
The Valley Bookseller is a community bookstore located along the Mississippi on the main street of Stillwater. This staple of the community hosts local author events, book clubs and a large collection of current and past bestsellers. The Valley Bookseller promotes literacy in the community by partnering with local schools and supporting local events. Check out this local gem for a fantastic selection of Minnesota history and culture.
The Bookstore at Fitger's
600 E. Superior St.
Duluth, MN 55802
(888) 270-2665
www.fitgersbookstore.com
Located in a renovated brewery, The Bookstore at Fitger's is an independent bookstore that provides a wide selection of books for all ages. As the brewery complex is part of the history of Duluth, the bookstore offers a selection of books that feature the history of northeastern Minnesota. Along with the wide selection of regional and community literature, Fitger's also carries bestsellers and new releases. The Fitger's Brewery Complex is listed among the top historic places to visit in Minnesota and memorabilia is available at the bookstore as well.
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Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for eight years. She loves covering all things Minnesota and her work can be found on Examiner.com.
