A Local’s Guide to the 15 Best Bookstores in Boulder, CO

A Local’s Guide to the 15 Best Bookstores in Boulder, CO

Boulder is a city known for its vibrant cultre and active lifestyle. Bookstores in the area have been maintained because of the part they play in society. Even though there is a rise in the popularity of e-books, Boulder has been able to keep a majority of its bookshops open. It should be noted that these bookstores host a variety of events that cater to both adults and children in the community.

When it comes to bookstores, I have always found myself leaning towards the more locally owned stores that support the community as well as have a curated selection of books. 

In this article, I will explore how bookstores in Boulder have become the backbone of the city’s literary scene. Their chic designs and the warm as well as welcoming staff make each store unique and comforting. In these stores, there is something for every reader whether it is fiction, horror, science fiction, or comics. 

1. Barnes & Noble

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It is located in the former Boulder Carnegie Library. The library’s design features beautiful architecture with vaulted ceilings. Barnes & Noble hosts events such as author signings, book clubs, and storytimes. The store has a curated selection of books that cater to the diverse interests of Boulder’s residents. There is also an in-store cafe that has become a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy a delicious pastry. The store is known for supporting local authors by featuring their works and participating in community events that focus on local literature.

2. Boulder Bookstore

It is a cherished independent institution that has contributed a lot to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The store has an impressive selection of over 100,000 titles that cater to diverse reading interests. Boulder Bookstore is a haven for book lovers and community members. It is known for hosting over 200 events including workshops, lectures, and book clubs. The store is known for championing local voices by featuring works from Colorado authors.

3. Trident Booksellers & Cafe

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It is a beloved independent institution in Colorado. It has an impressive selection of new and used books. The store also offers a delightful cafe experience with a menu that features delicious all-day breakfast options. Trident is also a vibrant community hub that hosts diverse events such as trivia nights, poetry open mics, and book clubs. It should be noted that the store implements eco-friendly practices such as using recycled materials and offering reusable shopping bags.

4. The Lighthouse Bookstore

It has a curated unique work of art and tools for locals and book lovers. The store offers an extensive and in-depth selection of texts pertaining to Eastern Philosophy, Transpersonal Psychology, and Psychic Development. The store is known for being a vital part of the community for many years. Even though it doesn’t have the typical fictional and romance books that cater to many bibliophiles, it is still a loved bookstore.

5. The Bookworm of Boulder

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It is a cherished independent bookstore in the heart of the city. It has a curated selection of books with genres such as non-fiction, children’s literature, local books, and romance books. The store hosts numerous events throughout the year such as book clubs, readings, writing workshops, and author signings. The Bookworm of Boulder has an inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating areas. The store is known for implementing eco-friendly practices such as using recycled materials and participating in book recycling programs.

6.  Time Warp Comics

It was established in 1984 and has since been a beloved cornerstone of the Boulder community. The store has a vast collection of new and vintage comics, trade paperbacks, graphic novels, manga, and related merchandise. Time Warp hosts numerous events throughout the year such as artist appearances, game nights, and movie screenings. The store also supports local comic book creators by hosting events with them.

7. Beat Book Shop

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It was founded in 1990 by Tom Peters and is named after the Beat Generation literary movement. It offers a diverse selection of new, used, and rare books. The store specializes in literature, poetry, music, and art. Beat Book Shop hosts weekly poetry readings, author signings, and book club meetings that foster a literary community. The store supports local authors and publishers which contributes to the health of the independent literary scene. It also participated in initiatives that promoted cultural awareness.

8. The University of Colorado Bookstore 

It was founded in 1876 and is one of the oldest university bookstores in the United States. There are currently two locations in Colorado. The University of Colorado Bookstore offers a wide selection of textbooks, other academic resources, books, gifts, and clothing. The store has a robust online store where students can purchase course materials as well as other products. The University of Colorado Bookstore is known for making an effort to support local authors by stocking their books and hosting events with them.

It should be noted that the store has been recognized for its excellence by a number of organizations. It has been named one of the Top 10 College Bookstores in the Nation and one of the Best Campus Bookstores in the United States.

9. Juniper Bookstore

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It is a lovely bookstore that specializes in curating book collections around trending pop culture titles, curated themes, and timeless classics. Their collections have been featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things list two years in a row.  Juniper Bookstore participates in community events and also collaborates with local businesses to foster engagement. The store implements sustainable practices such as using recycled materials and participating in book recycling programs.

10. The Read Queen Bookstore & Cafe

The store is a cherished independent bookstore and cafe that contributes to the vibrant Boulder community. The store has a diverse selection of new and used books that cater to all reading interests. They have genres such as fiction, children’s literature, classics, and books from local authors. Aside from their vast collection of books, the store has a cafe that serves delicious coffee, tea, and pastries. 

The Read Queen hosts events such as author signings, book clubs, storytimes, and writing workshops. The store also champions local voices by featuring books by Colorado authors and collaborating with local literary organizations. The store also offers unique gifts, puzzles, and cards which make it a one-stop shop.

11. Barbed Wire Books

It is a unique bookstore that celebrates diversity in literature. It focuses on used and out-of-print books which makes it a treasure trove of hidden gems and classics at affordable prices. Barbed Wire has a wide range of genres such as romance, fiction, and mystery. The store actively hosts author talks, book clubs, and workshops throughout the year. Barbed Wire is noted for recognizing the importance of literacy and participating in initiatives that promote reading.

It should be noted that the store implements eco-friendly practices like using recycled materials and offering reusable shopping bags. The store also hosts sales, and promotions that engage the community as well as offer opportunities to discover new books.

12. Little Horse Books 

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It is a vintage store that offers a variety of books. Two locations in Colorado have become a vital part of the community. Little Horse stores are filled with a vast collection of books and records as well as housewares. The store is noted for specializing in the needs of bibliophiles and music lovers.

13. CU Book Store

It is one of the oldest university bookstores in the United States. It is noted for being one of the Top 10 College Bookstores in the Nation as well as one of the Best Campus Bookstores in the United States. The store has a vast collection of textbooks, study guides, and general interest books. CU hosts events such as author signings, book clubs, and study sessions.

The store is noted for supporting local organizations and events. CU has won numerous awards for its selection of products and customer service. The store is known for being committed to sustainability and offers a number of eco-friendly products.

14. Om Books & Gifts

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It is a store that specializes in metaphysical books and unique gifts that are related to spiritual practices. The store has a curated selection of books on topics such as parenting, Buddhism, prosperity, and philosophy. Om Books & Gifts regularly participates in community events and programs that are organized by the Unity of Boulder Spiritual Community.

15. Two Hands Paperie

The store carries hundreds of journals and notebooks as well as books, art supplies, and fine writing instruments. The store offers creative classes and hosts events such as artists’ lectures and monthly letter-writing events. It should be noted that the store offers classes on bookbinding and visual journaling. 

All in all, these stores have offered so much to the community in Boulder. Aside from offering events in their stores to casually supporting organizations in the city. Through their unique style and comforting atmosphere, these stores have been designed to cater to the needs of book lovers as well as locals. In addition, Boulder’s literary scene has slowly developed over the years creating a good example for the younger generation.