Bookstores to fulfill all your BookTok desires
Ever since my obsession with everything BookTok, I have tried to diversify and localize where I buy my books and who I support. I have gone through Gainesville’s local selection of bookstores and have uncovered three independent bookstores.
Book Gallery West
Book Gallery West is a local independently run bookstore where readers can buy and sell their new or used books. The bookstore consists of both the newest Colleen Hoover books and classics like “Catcher and the Rye” or “The Giver,” Although you can find a cheaper version on Amazon, by shopping at an independent bookstore, you can know that you are not only paying for a new book obsession but you are supporting a small business. The bookstore also buys your old books at a decided price. It is the perfect balance of filling your library while also making room for the new books. West is open Mon-Sat from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is located on 4121 NW 16th Blvd.
Third House Books
Third House Books is a local small business that holds an exclusive 300-title list – a much smaller list compared to your local Books-A-Million. They place an emphasis on comfortable seating, which is located throughout the store to allow customers to relax and enjoy the different stories surrounding them. They specialize in titles from small independent presses and marginalized voices.
“I was really tired – as a English literature college graduate – of reading books by old white men,” owner Heather Halak said.
Third House doesn’t just sell books, but they host events and a monthly book club where they discuss real life issues within literature and how to apply solutions to the real world. “I really believe in my friends’ idea of curating a bookstore centered on marginalized authors; I am impartial to the underdog and the mischiefs,” Halak said. The store’s new location is 400 NW 10th Ave., next to the Tabby Cat pet store. Customers should note that masks are required and should plan accordingly.
THe friends of the Library
Friends of the Library is a nonprofit organization that collects new or used books and hosts a biannual book fair to raise money for the Alachua County Library District and for community literacy projects. This biannual event runs Oct. 22-26 and April 22-26. People can buy books, games, records, puzzles and more. Prices are as low as 25 cents and as high as $4. They also include a Collector’s Corner, where dedicated readers can find signed, first-edition or Florida historic books, pamphlets and other forms of texts. These specialized pieces are marked at reasonable prices and are only available the first four days of the event. This event gives you not only the opportunity to rediscover old treasures, but also to support your local libraries.
These bookstores are all local and locally sourced. They are operated by community members that are using their space to support and elevate marginalized and local authors. That is why they should be your new source for all things reading and community.