Local bookstores are making a comeback and they are a great place to stock up on summer reads in air-conditioned comfort. Here are a few of our favorites.
Friends of the Maureen B. Gauzza Library
11211 Countryway Blvd, Tampa
Located in the lobby of the Maureen B. Gauzza Library, this quaint bookstore offers a wide selection of used books for all ages at rock-bottom prices (starting at just $1). Books are arranged by age level and genre. They also have several carts with free books outside the bookstore entrance. Payments are made on an honor system using cash or the Zelle app. Funds raised are used to sponsor library & literacy programs.
Back in the Day Books
355 Main St., Dunedin
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Dunedin, this quaint bookstore features a wide selection of new arrivals, Florida-based authors and children’s books. They also have a fun selection of gifts perfect for your favorite bibliophile. The staff is knowledgeable and are happy to order titles they don’t have in stock.
Portkey Books
404 Main St., Safety Harbor
This tiny gem of a bookstore on Safety Harbor’s Main Street is a book-lover’s delight. Stop in and browse the latest new arrivals or visit their website where you can order for in-store pickup or free local delivery. Portkey also hosts several book clubs.
Mojo Books
2554 E Fowler Ave., Tampa
If you’re looking for new and used books and vinyl records, Mojo is the place. They have a wide selection of new arrivals, as well as an eclectic mix of paperbacks. A coffee & tea bar rounds out the space, making this a fun place to spend a hot summer day.
Oxford Exchange Bookstore
420 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa
Oxford Exchange is worth a visit simply to take in the beauty of the space. The carefully curated collection includes new releases, bestsellers, beloved classics, signed first editions and children’s favorites. They also host a series of speaking engagements and book signings. Make a reservation for brunch to cap off your shopping experience.
Black English Bookstore
401 E. Oak Ave., Tampa
Located in historic Tampa Heights, Black English Bookstore is an intimate, 728-square-foot space that packs in an extensive selection of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, essay collections, puzzles, notecards and more. Black English Bookstore is women-owned and independently operated and caters to readers of all ages while elevating black-authored books.
Tombolo Books
2153 1st Ave. S., St. Pete
This gem of a bookstore with a vibrant storefront has a section dedicated to Florida authors, as well as an excellent children’s section complete with reading nook. New books arrive daily, and they hold readings in their lovely courtyard.
Book + Bottle
17 6th St. N., St. Pete
Books + wine = a recipe for a winning bookstore. Despite the name, this store carries books for all ages and has a wide selection of Florida authors. The staff can help you pick your next read and the perfect wine pairing. There is a café in addition to the wine bar, for those who prefer a non-alcoholic refreshment.
Wilson’s Book World
535 16th St N, St. Pete
This beloved, family-owned bookstore experienced an A/C theft in May, but thanks to support from their loyal community of customers, they have bounced back and are air-conditioned once again. They have a large selection of used and antique books, as well as a growing selection of comic books.
