Top 5 Independent Bookstores in Philly

Okay so spring is finally in the air and it’s just nice outside to sit on your porch or backyard and enjoy a nice book.  Aside from getting suggestions from Facebook on what to read, power down your computer or smart phone and head to your local bookstore.  The adventure of finding a new gem to add to your personal library can be just as fun and rewarding as reading the book itself.  If you’re like us, patronizing independent shops make purchases both big and small enjoyable.  We always promote independent establishments here at Wooder Ice, so when the task came to find the best bookstores we found no shortage of great shops.  Without further adieu here are the top 5 interdependent bookstores in Philly.

The Book Trader

7 N 2nd St | (215) 925-2080 | Sun-Sat 10 am – 10 pm

First timers may be overwhelmed with The Book Trader collection

The Book Trader has what seems like endless rows of books

If you are looking for a place to get lost in isles of books, this is the place to be.  It looks like something out of an a movie.  This place encompasses organized chaos that can seem a bit intimidating for first time visitors.  However, after assimilating yourself and walking the isles this place transforms from a book warehouse to a cozy bookstore in no time flat.  The Book Trader even offers up cushy chairs for those looking to make a day warming up to a book.  Most of all the books they sell are used but in good condition.  So for those with a lot of time on their hands and want to rummage for a new book to get lost in, definitely check this place out.

The Book Corner

311 N 20th St | (215) 567-0527 | Mon.-Sat 10 am – 6 pm

The Book Corner is tucked in the midst of museum and tourist attractions

The Book Corner is deceptively large inside (pic courtesy of Google)

Located right off the Ben Franklin Parkway and behind the Free Library of Philadelphia is The Book Corner.  In an area populated with museums and tourist attraction this place sits in the shadows of the more popular destinations.  However, for bookworms in this area it stands as a giant.  Frugal shoppers will be happy to know that this place offers up books from $1-$3.  Their selection is massive and well organized so if you know what you are looking for you can be in and out in no time.  This spot is also associated with the Friends of the Free Library so they do take donations.

Head House Books

619 S. 2nd St. | (215) 923-9525 | Sun. 11 am – 5 pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11 am – 7 pm, Fri. 11 am – 8 pm, Sat. 10 am – 8 pm

This place is perfect to get your kids into books

The Head House is well organized and up to date

The South St. district garners a lot of attention for their shopping boutiques and eateries.  Just off the beaten path is an independent bookstore worth checking out if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of South St. shoppers.  Located just a block from South St., is Head House Books.   This quintessential bookstore is very family friendly and even offers up a cozy kid section if you have little ones tagging along.  Carrying mostly new books, Head House covers most of the popular books out today.  Their staff is helpful and the places is bright and airy.  So if you’re looking for a place to relax and digest your Ishkabibbles cheesesteak, Head House is your destination.

The Spiral Bookcase

112 Cotton St. | (215) 482-0704 | Sun. 10 am – 7 pm, Mon. Closed, Tues-Thurs. 12 pm – 8 pm, Fri. 12 pm – 9 pm, Sat. 10 am – 9 pm

The Spiral Bookcase is tucked away in a quiet corner of Manayunk

This place feels more like a cozy home than a store

In what seams like the farthest reaches of Philadelphia just off Main St. Manayunk is The Spiral Bookcase.  This spot is as cozy as the neighborhood it sits in.  You almost getting a feel like you’re visiting a relatives house especially when greeted by Amelia the store cat.   Looking around you may get a real “homey” feeling that most other bookstores do not offer.  For those concerned more with the bottom line, not only are the prices reasonable, this place is very well kept, tidy, and organized. This is the perfect spot to wonder off to when in Manayunk.

Joseph Fox Bookshop

1724 Sansom St. | (215) 563-4184 | Mon. Tues. Thurs. Fri. Sat. 9:30 am – 6 pm, Wed. 9:30 am – 7 pm, Sun. Closed

Joseph Fox is located in the heart of Center City

Situated just off Market Street’s business district is Joseph Fox Bookshop.  This spot is quaint but worth the trip if you happen to be in the area.  Those working nearby will find this place perfect to swing by after work and pick up a book on the way home.  Although this place leans heavy on art and architecture, their selection is more than adequate.  Independent bookstores are hard to come by especially in the heart of center city.  So if you are into supporting independent stores as we are, check out this bookshop.