Bookshops
Independent bookshops, used and rare booksellers, and beloved local chains across the greater Portland area. With entries for other parts of Oregon and Vancouver, WA, as well.
Associations
- Cascade Booksellers Association — “…a non-profit association of professional retail book dealers in the Pacific Northwest… Each dealer is independent and offers their own unique inventory which may include general stock in all categories or may focus on one or more specialties.”
Southeast
- Backstory Books and Yarn — “…an independent, woman-owned, book and yarn store, located on Portland Oregon’s historic Hawthorne Boulevard.”
- Belmont Books — “We buy and sell used and new books, from noon until 5pm, every day.”
- Bingo Used Books — “…features over 100,000 used books, children’s books, CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, VHS movies, comic books, and more, including over 10,000 items at only $1 each.”
- Boredom Books — “…where highbrow meets the low. Used books, bought and sold. And now with new books! Welcome to the house of literatures both minor & major, the bus stop of philosophies east & west, my labor of love…”
- Dark Star Magick — “…esoteric bookstore – specializing in new, used, rare and antiquarian occult books and grimoires… small press publications from around the world including Scarlet Imprint, Ixaxaar, Anathema, Nephilim, and many other publishers of limited edition volumes.”
- Future Dreams Books — “We have been a full service science fiction and comic book specialty bookstore for over 40 years.”
- Grover’s Curiosity Shop — “…a bookstore and cooperative run by authors, readers, and artists. Our mission is to provide the community with a low-cost event space for workshops, pop-ups for local artists, and readings. As a cooperative, we share our costs so that we can all showcase our own work in the shop and run our own events.”
- Literary Arts Bookstore & Cafe — “…over 14,000 books for readers of all ages, interests, and tastes…hosts author readings, community events, story times, and more each week.”
- Mother Foucault’s Bookshop — “…specializes in used, rare, and vintage books …wide and eclectic selection of philosophy, foreign language, arts, fiction, and poetry titles.”
- Nationale — “…an art space in Portland, OR (est. 2008) dedicated to the promotion of culture through visual arts exhibitions, performances, and select publications.”
- Postcard Bookshop — “…shares stories from around our big world in just a small space. As Portland’s only bookstore for travelers, we love introducing readers to new destinations through the written word.”
- Powell’s Books on Hawthorne — “…a smaller, more relaxed counterpart to the City of Books, full of the best in fiction, nonfiction, fantasy, kids—you name it! It’s the little store with the big heart.”
- Selected Stories — “…a curated independent bookshop… we offer a beautiful and welcoming space for the curious, with a focus on literary fiction and the arts, and a particular desire to uplift works in translation and small presses.”
- Third Eye Books — “founded in 2019… Our vision is to be the number one supplier of African Centered books, accessories and gifts in the Portland Metro Area… a proud 100% Black owned and operated business.”
- Up Up Books — “Where independent voices meet their readers… We focus on highlighting local writers, small presses, and writing that isn’t always easy to find elsewhere.”
- Wallace Books — “…a treasure for every reader nestled in our 1930s house, where we’ve been for 21 years. Hot new releases, great used classics and quirky vintage finds…”
North and Northeast
- Always Here Bookstore — “…a queer & trans worker-owned bookstore carrying queer books for all ages… exists to celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories while making space for our community… and to be a third space for queer & trans people…”
- Arches Bookhouse — “…carefully curated sections of literature, poetry, history, art, and theology books as well as children’s books, cookbooks, nature writing… excel in sourcing hard-to-find monographs, technical reference books, and critical editions of texts the scholar needs.”
- Barnes & Noble Clearance Center – Lloyd Center — “With tons of free parking, stop in to beat the summer heat, or dry off on a rainy day.”
- Black Hat Books — “…home to unique collections of Latino and Native-American literature and history, as well of one of the largest collections of African-American literature, history, and poetry in the Pacific Northwest.”
- Broadway Books — “happily supplying books and more to readers in NE Portland and beyond since 1992… store is full of fabulous new books, we also have a great selection of non-book items such as greeting cards, calendars, journals, games & puzzles.”
- A Children’s Place Bookstore — “We opened our doors to Portland families in 1974 and have been helping to raise readers ever since! As a local, woman-owned business, we value community and connection above all else. We want to inspire a love of reading in each child who comes into our store and to create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.”
- Crooked House Books — “…open Saturdays, 11-5. For the rest of the week, we are available by appointment or chance… specialize in vintage, rare, and collectible books. “
- Floating World Comics — “…a shop for readers, for artists, for book lovers of all ages… Check out a fresh batch of genre comics every Wednesday…”
- Friends of the Library Bookstore — “…a small, but carefully curated selection of used books as well as stationery and literary gifts.”
- Green Bean Books — “…a wild and whimsical community-based, independent children’s bookstore… home to new books, used books, red books, blue books, books for babies through the most grownup grownup! …we have a load of loopy and lovely extras like science kits, birthday cards, Nee Doh squishies, miniature secret message capsules, and a whole menagerie of cuddly creatures!”
- Honeyed Words — “Curated queer stories. …the cozy queer bookstore tucked inside Sonny’s House. Curated with trans joy and queer wonder in mind, we’re a space for well-loved genres, book events like Cozy Queer Reading Hours and Summer Story Fest, and custom queer book boxes. Come by soon and find the sweetest queer stories just for you!”
- Lost Avenue Books — “Ambient literature, new and used.”
- Melville Books — “A small, carefully curated general stock used bookstore.”
- Microcosm Publishing Bookstore — “Since 1996, the curated books, zines, decks, and more in our publishing, distribution, and wholesale programs emphasize skill-building, critical thinking, community, and creativity. “
- Midslumber Media — “a queer woman owned horror bookstore/video store…media from new and used horror books and movies (DVD, Blu-ray, 4K, Boutique, and VHS), horror vinyl soundtracks and CD’s, magazines, gifts, dark romance/erotica, and so much more!”
- Monograph Bookwerks — “…an art, ephemera and object bookstore featuring a curated selection of books on modern and contemporary art and artists, architecture, graphic design, fashion, photography, artist biographies, countercultures, theory and art criticism.”
- Parallel Worlds Bookshop — “Portland’s science fiction and fantasy book shop…”
- Revolutions Bookshop — “…a small, independent bookstore specializing in a curated selection of mostly used books, some new books, vinyl, and collectibles. Our academic and punk roots make for a bold selection in all genres…”
- Second Shapes Bookstore — “For the neighbors, by the neighbors. Here you’ll find a curated selection of used books, zines, art, and new books from local authors and small presses. We also frequently host workshops and events in our community room…”
- Sunrise Books (Children’s Books) — “Warmth, Hope, Beauty & Play. Books can act much like a sunrise. The comfort and tranquility of a heartfelt book. The deep inhale you take after reading an inspiring sentence invoking hope… Our desire is to lead you to stories that make you feel like waking up to a beautiful sunrise. Lets shine bright together.”
- Two Rivers Bookstore — “…a woman-owned, independent bookstore… We share our retail space with Weird Sisters Yarn and offer classes, book clubs and many other unique events.”
- Vivienne Culinary Books — “Independent. Woman Owned. Expertly Curated. …new and used books, indie food magazines, rare and antiquarian titles, kitchenwares, linens, and wine.”
Downtown (SW)
- Adelina Film & Art Books in Boys Fort — “Art, film, music, outdoors, and gift books…”
- Bold Coffee & Books — “…we strive to offer premier coffee drinks, varied and inclusive book selections, unique events, and a community-building space… we both have a dedication to creating safe spaces for people from marginalized communities to gather and uplift your voices.”
- Burnside Rare Books — “…a general antiquarian bookshop… welcoming visitors by appointment only. We specialize in 20th Century literature and signed books.”
- Chaparral Books — “established in 2016 …offering high-quality affordable used books in general fiction and non-fiction, poetry, visual and performing arts, as well as rare and collectible books.”
- Grand Gesture Books — “Portland’s romance-only bookstore. A new queer Black woman-owned romance bookstore. “
- Hi Books — “…bookstore / gallery… woman owned / AAPI owned, artist run, and owner-operated… primary focus is photobooks, both rare and contemporary, along with a curated collection of new, used, and out of print books, magazines, and ephemera in the fields of art, fashion, design, youth culture, rave culture, queer history, and counterculture…”
- Kinokuniya Portland — “…carefully selected books, unique merchandise and Japanese stationery, with a focus on art and comics from Japan.”
- Portland State University Bookstore — Run by Barnes & Noble
- Powell’s City of Books — “…occupies four stories on a full city block…making it the largest independent bookstore in the world…”
- Word Virus Books — “New and used bookshop specializing in literature, poetry, and the arts.”
Northwest
- Bishop & Wilde — “…a queer-owned bookstore located on the ground level of Tin House in Portland, Oregon. We sell new & used books alongside records, art, and ephemera. Dogs (& cats) are always welcome.”
- Daedalus Books — “…primarily a used bookstore with a fine selection of new books. …a strong concentration in art, philosophy, music, and literature, as well as a general stock.”
- Downtown Brown Books — “…operates out of a secret location in Portland’s Northwest Alphabet District. The door is usually open during business hours, but you’ll have to inquire for the address, which is not on the internet.”
- New Renaissance Bookshop — “…nurture the spiritual awakening of truthseekers of all paths by attuning to the highest needs of our customers and ourselves, creating an uplifting environment of unconditional love and acceptance, offering spiritual teachings from East and West “
- Passages Bookshop — Operating since 1997 and now “in the Upshur Warehouse in NW Portland… open by appointment or chance, and look forward to seeing you soon!”
Southwest
- Annie Bloom’s Books — “…first opened its doors in Multnomah Village in 1978. More than forty years later, we’re still thriving! A neighborhood independent bookstore, we carry a broad range of new books across many genres.”
- Jan’s and Arcade Book Exchange — “…an independent, queer woman-owned bookstore specializing in fiction paperback books… a wide range of new and used books, we carry cards, calendars, puzzles, bookmarks, gift tags, postcards, candles, soaps, coloring books, and the list goes on… a wide range of locally handmade goods.”
Beaverton
- Kinokuniya Beaverton — “…opened within the spacious Uwajimaya Beaverton site in March, 1998 …a newly expanded stationery and gift section welcomes you on the right side of the store …many premium brands, high quality pens, notebooks and stationery from Japan for every kind of writer…”
- Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing — “…32,500 square feet of used, new, and hard-to-find books across every category and genre. …kids’ section is a bright, book-filled haven for children of all ages, and our vast sci-fi offerings draw fans of the genre from all around. …an impressive selection of board games and gift items.”
- The Book Corner — “For over 30 years, the Friends of the Beaverton City Library has been dedicated to…supporting the Beaverton City Library to expand their services and programs in our community…”
Gresham
- Maggie Mae’s Bookshop — “…aims to be your destination for books in Gresham, OR. We have a wonderfully curated selection of books from board books to grown up books, gift items for all ages… When you walk into Maggie Mae’s you will be greeted with a warm smile and instantly feel at home.”
Harmony / Sunnyside
- Barnes & Noble – Clackamas Town Center Mall — “…a two story wonder of books, vinyl, gifts, games and more. Come explore our mighty Manga section or discover your next favorite read!”
Hillsboro
- Barnes & Noble — “…packs everything you love about B&N into a stunning floorplan. Join us in the many community events we host and visit our Café offering a perfect setting for socializing and enhancing your shopping experience.”
Hood River
- Ampersand Gallery & Fine Books — “Established in 2008… Featuring a curated selection of artworks, art books, ephemera and vintage photography. Open every Saturday from 10AM to 4PM. Otherwise by Appointment.”
Lake Oswego
- Booktique — “Mission…to assist the Lake Oswego Public Library in fulfilling its mission through advocacy, funding, promotion, and volunteer support. Your purchase of used books from the BOOKtique directly helps support the LO Public Library.”
Milwaukie
- Spoke & Word Books — “…exists to nurture and grow our community through shared stories. We believe books are a vital resource for knowledge and connection, and have the power to bring us together. Our goal is to help everyone find themselves at the center of a joyful story.”
Oregon City
- White Rabbit Book Cafe — “Local, Family-Owned & Community Focused. Some days you can find three generations of us working behind the counter … committed to providing a unique, curated selection of titles and a lovely selection of gifts with an emphasis on local artists, small businesses and equitable representation. We are also committed to talking about books, raising up makers, creating community and working towards equity for all.”
Vancouver, WA
- Birdhouse Books — “a locally owned and operated vintage and used bookstore located in downtown Vancouver, WA’s arts district… specialize in antiques, classics, philosophy, sci-fi fantasy, and poetry, but we have a diverse selection and hope everyone will find something they are interested in!”
- Vintage Books — “…Southwest Washington’s largest independent, family-owned bookstore…serving our community since 1975 …new and used titles in the store… used book inventory includes extensive collections in military history, literature, fiction, cooking, scifi/fantasy, U.S. History, and children’s books, as well as automotive manuals prior to 2000.”
- White Oak Books — “Woman-owned, all inclusive bookstore. Many people are book people. Not as many people are bookstore people. Sara is both a book person and a bookstore person. …we only sell new books… we do not buy used books or take book donations.”
PDX (Airport)
- Powell’s Books at PDX — “Thoughtfully curated and designed to cater to travelers …features a wide selection of books perfect for short trips and long-haul flights… Shop new releases, travel accessories, and unique Pacific Northwest-themed gifts to bring a bit of Portland with you wherever you go.”
Online
- Another Read Through — “…physical store is on hiatus, but we are selling used books by the bundle, and we still sell new books on our site…, as well as audiobooks…”
- Anthology Booksellers — “…by appointment and internet bookstore located in NE Portland, OR. We have a stock of over 10,000 books with specialties in the areas of Art, Literature and the Humanities. To view our stock, go to our database acequiabooksellers.com or call us at 505 977-8162 to set up an appointment. “
- Antiquated Future — “…an online store, zine distro, vintage cassette reseller, and record label that began in 2008 out of Olympia and since 2013 has operated out of Portland…”
- Boyd Used & Rare Books — “…a small used and rare book dealer that runs our online store out of our home, complete with online “bookstore” cats… specialize in Northwest books and Northwest authors, but also love any books that are quirky or slightly unusual in nature.”
- Death by TBR Books — “a woman/neurodivergent/disabled owned indie press and online bookshop… built for the horror that creeps in quietly and refuses to leave… also offer recommendations in ANY genre as our owner was also a librarian!”
- Richard Bishop Bookseller — “Specializing in modern and antiquarian works on magic, witchcraft, related esoteric lore and more. “
- Zephyr Used & Rare Books — “…established in 1994 … exhibit at numerous book fairs and antique shows throughout the year…”