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The Strand is only worth going to as a tourist attraction (if you’re fully aware of its status as such), or if you need big art books (they’re unmatched in that
by pradn 4y ago
The Strand is only worth going to as a tourist attraction (if you’re fully aware of its status as such), or if you need big art books (they’re unmatched in that category).
In NY, I’d say take a look at Left Bank books (rare, old literature, photography, art books - some are even early editions of classics), Codex (little used shop with a fantastic selection), Mercer St Books and Records (basement hole in the wall), Westsider Rare and Used books (an UWS classic), Unnameable Books (good events and a literary selection).
For new books, McNally Jackson is the preferred one for the reading public. Their staff selections are useful and they have a dedicated poetry and chapbook section.
- kingkawn 4y agoThe one true bookstore in nyc is Book Thug Nation in Williamsburg. The best curated selection of used literature I’ve ever come across and a smattering of other stuff too.
- pradn 4y agoThat place is fantastic as well, and just so tiny, barely like a big bedroom! It’s also amazing how zany it’s name is, but it really does have a serious collection of used books. I found some film books that studied directors with depth, but had to restrain myself !
- kingkawn 4y agoYeah it’s dangerous going in there if you want to leave with any money in your pocket
- sidpatil 4y agoMy favorite is East Village Books. I've had luck finding interesting books there.
- Nav_Panel 4y agoAgree with all of the above recommendations, and want to add Aeon Bookstore as a relative newcomer that has a great selection.
- sthu11182 4y agoI agree on Westsider. However, I always liked the Strand for its collection of history, science, and math books. While Strand can be crowded and touristy, it still has a good collection of books.
- euroderf 4y agoThey have the books, but be prepared for life on a ladder if you really want to dig in.
- ghaff 4y agoThe Strand is one of the places/attractions/etc. that it's easy for locals to dump on a bit because it's something popular with tourists. But the reality is that they can be a lot of fun. The last time I was in NYC, I was really hurting because of not one but two bad hamstrings cause by hockey. I could barely walk--which is not a great combination with NYC. I had some time and took a Circle Line cruise. It was delightful and I hadn't done it since I was a child!
- ajoseps 4y ago+1 for Codex, always enjoy perusing through there. McNally Jackson also hosts authors semi-frequently which is nice
- pradn 4y agoThe Center for Fiction in downtown BK is also a great spot for author events!
- thundergolfer 4y agoThanks for the recommendations. Unnameable Books looks nearby where I'd like to live.