To celebrate National Independent Bookstore Day on April 29, I put together a short list of my favorite independent bookstores in San Diego.
San Diego is a book lover’s paradise! I know this because I am an author, too. Setting up book presentations and signings at some of my favorite indie bookstores in town last year, gave me the opportunity to meet some of the owners and see first-hand what unique experience each retailer offers.
Here are a few favorites for you to consider the next time you need or want to buy a book:
- Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse: I started buying books here when I was in college at USD. That’s how long Upstartcrow has been around. The owners are also very supportive of local authors — something I really appreciated when I reached out to many bookstores about selling my book at their shop. As one of the original Seaport Village tenants (opened in 1980), Upstart Crow is known as one of the most charming bookstores in San Diego. In addition to the wide selection of adult and kids genres, the shop includes a full coffee bar, unique trinkets and gifts, and events including reoccurring Shakespeare readings (in honor of its namesake) and live music. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Bay Books: This is my hometown’s bookstore, and I’m very glad it has survived the print crisis brought on by the giant online booksellers. If you visit the shop, please say hello Erna and tell her I sent you! Bay Books is an independently owned bookstore serving Coronado and San Diego County for over 20 years. They specialize in new titles, indie favorites, military history, young adult and children’s books. They also carry foreign language magazines.
- Verbatim Books: Opened last year by Justine Epstein and Greg Theilmann, Verbatim Books in North Park has a huge selection of used and rare books, as well as unique art from local artists. The high ceilings and dark wall paint gives it a cozy feel (optimal for spending hours perusing the bookshelves). Open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Warwick’s: Another San Diego favorite, Warwick’s remains one of the oldest family owned and operated bookstores in the country. In addition to a large collection of books for all ages, Warwicks also has unique gifts and is home to one of the largest selections of fine pens and stationary in San Diego. Open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
If you’re near one of these book shops on National Independent Bookstore Day, April 29th, stop in and buy a book. Both Upstart Crow and Bay Books sell signed copies of my book, too.
Thank you!
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