Whether you’re escaping the heat, avoiding a rainy day, or just looking for a cozy weekend outing, Austin’s bookstores offer a perfect way to slow down and connect—with your kids or with a good story. Many of the shops on this list host special events, storytimes, and readings for all ages, so carve out some time to explore and dive into a new book together.
603 N Lamar Blvd.
A beloved Austin institution, BookPeople has been fueling imaginations since 1970. Their expansive children’s and young adult sections make it a go-to for families, while the rest of the store is packed with thoughtfully curated titles, gifts, and local merchandise. Don’t miss their packed calendar of author events, storytimes, and community gatherings—there’s always something happening.
4300 Speedway
This charming indie bookstore and café, opened in the renovated Hyde Park post office in August 2023, is the kind of cozy spot families keep coming back to. With bright natural light, a children’s corner, and plenty of tables, it’s perfect for lingering over storytime or homework with a latte from their walk-up coffee window (open from 7 am). Upstairs, you’ll find thoughtfully curated titles—from cookbooks to children’s reads—and a wine bar for evening browsing. Membership perks include 20% off books, complimentary daily drip coffee, and book delivery within a 5-mile radius. Open daily 9 am – 9 pm, this welcoming community hub is an ideal spot to spark your family’s love of reading.
5501 N Lamar Blvd #A-105
Celebrating 47 years as Austin’s go-to feminist bookstore, BookWoman offers a curated selection that includes LGBTQIA+ literature, a thoughtfully compiled banned-and-challenged books list, and a welcoming children’s section for families. They also host engaging events—from book launches to open‑mic nights. Masks are required in-store (masks provided at the door), ensuring a safe and inclusive space for everyone.
7112 Burnet Rd.
This locally owned indie bookstore is rooted in community and committed to promoting diverse voices across generations, cultures, and experiences. Black Pearl offers a thoughtfully curated selection—including popular picks like Dog Man—and you can browse by genre or shop online for new releases and pre-orders. They also have an event space available for everything from birthday parties to poetry nights, making it more than just a bookstore—it’s a community hub.
6929 Airport Blvd #121
Our kids love going to Kinokuniya because it’s the spot for books, goods, and gifts direct from Japan. They have a huge selection of books and Japanese brands, and can even special order if you don’t find what you’re looking for. From Manga and Anime to stationery, gel pens, and cute gifts and trinkets, you could easily spend an hour or more just soaking in Kinokuniya. It’s also in a lovely shopping plaza that has Soupleaf Hot Pot, lots of places for Boba, 99 Ranch Market, and more. We give Kinokuniya a 10/10.
Paper Bark Birch Children’s Bookstore
601 E. Whitestone Blvd., Bldg. 4, Ste. 218
This charming family-owned bookstore, opened in late 2023, is thoughtfully curated with children and young readers in mind. In addition to books for babies through young adults, you’ll find toys, water bottles, baking kits, and other playful extras. Keep an eye on their calendar for storytimes and special events—it’s a sweet spot worth the drive.
3703 Kerbey Ln.
A haven for book lovers, South Congress Books specializes in beautifully preserved used, rare, and vintage books. Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful gift or a unique addition to your own shelf, this cozy shop offers a carefully curated collection with charm and character in every title.
5335 Burnet Rd.
Austin Public Library’s Recycled Reads Store is a collection of books, recorded material, art, ephemera, games, puzzles, and more, mostly priced around $2. The goods sold at Recycled Reads are received both from public donations and APL’s weeded materials. You can also make donations during business hours or by appointment by emailing [email protected]. Check out their hours and get more info here.
5330 Menchaca Rd Ste D
This South Austin Independent bookstore sells both new and used books and is also a community space to read, write, and feel inspired. You can also shop online at Reverie Books here, and check out their list of books on how to support Trans teens and their families here.
5002 N Lamar Blvd.
Austin Books and Comics is Central Texas’s largest, longest-running comics and pop culture retailer, and is super fun to walk through. You can also shop online here and check out their other stores, Guzu Gallery, Outlaw Moon Games & Toys.
Austin Public Library’s Book Mobile
APL’s Mobile Library Fleet includes the Bookmobile, a Book Trike, and a Bike Trailer that shares books at venues around the city like senior homes, washaterias, and community events. At these mobile sites, you can sign up for a library card, check out books, and peruse APL’s Virtual Library on mobile devices. To see when the next mobile stop is, click here and search “Mobile Stop”.
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