8 local bookstores for every reader—new recs, hidden gems + more

Hey, bookworms! Whether you’re into epic fantasy, historical fiction with a Birmingham twist or need some fresh recs, you’ve come to the right spot. Now’s the time to grab your favorite drink, settle into your coziest reading nook and dive into our guide to the best local shops where you can get lost in a book or two and keep your TBR list growing. 

1. Alabama Booksmith—for the first-edition collector

Alabama Booksmith is one of Homewood’s biggest gems, but don’t expect to browse trendy best sellers. This store specializes in selling first editions, each signed by the author. 

Along with being a wonderful outlet for reading, can you think of a better gift for the book lover you know? 

• Address: 2626 19th Pl S, Homewood, AL 35209
• Hours: Monday-Saturday 10AM-6PM | Sunday closed
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. Bookmarked Paperie—for the aesthetic bibliophile + stationery nerd

Bookmarked Paperie in Trussville (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Do you judge a book and a notebook by its cover? This Trussville shop will be your new favorite spot. It’s filled with beautifully curated books, swoon-worthy journals, pens that glide like butter and other cute finds for those who can’t get enough of the written word.

Plus, it’s locally owned, which is always a win, and it’s around the corner from Maple Avenue Coffee House, another local favorite that pairs perfectly with your next chapter.

• Address: 107 Kay Ave, Trussville, AL 35173
• Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10AM-5:30PM | Saturday 9AM-3PM | Sunday-Monday closed
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Church Street Coffee & Books—for the one who pairs every chapter with coffee

Do you believe no great book is complete without the perfect cup of coffee? Church Street Coffee & Books is your new happy place. You’ll find expertly brewed coffee, served by friendly baristas and carefully curated books—perfect for anyone who loves to sip and flip through pages.

• Address: 81 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213
• Hours: Daily 6AM-6PM
• Website | Instagram

4. DeDe’s Book Rack—for the pre-owned fan

I’ll admit it: I used to only want brand-new books to line my shelves. Now, used books are my obsession and fully embrace the “read it and pass it on” mindset.

For a treasure trove of used books, head to DeDe’s Book Rack in Trussville. You’ll find friendly services, shelves packed with every genre for all ages and a trade-in program that helps books find new homes again and again.

Tip: Stroll just a few steps down the sidewalk and you’ll be in the heart of the Trussville Entertainment District (aka “The TED”). It’s an excellent spot to eat, drink, hear live music and crack open your latest read.

• Address: 104 S Chalkville Rd, Ste 105, Trussville, AL 35173
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-6PM | Sunday-Monday closed
• Facebook 

5. Jim Reed Books/The Museum of Fond Memories—for the memory keeper + story seeker

If you enjoy a good treasure hunt, Jim Reed Books is your ultimate destination. 

Owned and founded by local Jim Reeds, the space has been a home for the unique and unusual.

What will you discover when you walk through the door? Your guess is as good as mine or any other patron who’s wandered inside. But that’s what makes it so magical: the thrill of the unknown waiting to be found.

The store is completely covered in books and memorabilia with collections dating as far back as the 1400s. 

The most interesting thing I’ve found? It’s hard to pick just one thing, but I think it may actually be Jim Reed himself because of his trove of interesting stories.

• Address: 2021 3rd Ave N 2nd floor, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10:30AM-5:30PM | Saturday 11AM-4PM | Sunday-Monday closed
• Website | Facebook

6. Little Professor—for the reader who brunches

Nestled in the heart of Homewood, Little Professor Bookshop is a cozy haven for anyone who loves getting lost in a good book. The shelves are stacked with everything from best sellers to hidden gems, so expect to leave with a bag full of new reads. 

Tip: Homewood is a brunch lover’s paradise, so after you shop, stroll over to hot spots like O’Henry’s for a mug of coffee or Soho Social for a mouthwatering menu.

Though the Pepper Place location will be closing at the end of June, the Homewood location isn’t going anywhere, so stop in next time you’re passing by.

• Address: 2738 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8:30AM-6PM | Sunday 10AM-5PM
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

7. Thank You Books—for the staff pick devotee

When you finish one book, do you immediately wonder “What do I read next?” Same here, which why I suggest a visit to Thank you Books in Crestwood. 

The shop may be small, but its selection is mighty, especially when it comes to staff picks. Whether you’re into timeless classics or the latest releases, they’ll lead you to new stories and future favorite characters. 

To take the guesswork out of finding your next read, you can join their Signed First Editions Club (aka “Firsties”) and get a signed first edition of each handpicked, must-read book.

You can find more book clubs to join here.

• Address: 5502 Crestwood Blvd, Unit B, Birmingham, AL 35212
• Hours:Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-6PM | Sunday 12:30-5PM | Monday closed
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

8. The Burrow Bookstore—for the family seeking their weekend stack

The Burrow in Leeds is a welcoming place where you can find small-town charm and shelves packed with handpicked and highly rated picks (every book has a rating of 3.5 stars or more on Goodreads). 

You’ll find all kinds of fun items, from bookish candles and quirky pens to cute stuffed animals and clever tees—perfect for any true book nerd or little ones with book nerd potential. 

• Address: 8139 Parkway Dr, Leeds, AL 35094
• Hours: Monday-Saturday 10AM-8PM | Sunday closed
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

Don’t forget local libraries!

You’ll find them across the Greater Birmingham Area offering every book you could ever want or need, events for all ages and more. Visit the Birmingham Public Library website to find the branch nearest you.

Where is your favorite bookshop around Birmingham? Let us know on social by tagging @bhamnow.