Massachusetts visitors and residents have enjoyed the resurgence of independent bookstores in recent years. Between 2020 and 2025, the number of independent bookstores in the United States rose by an incredible 70%. Massachusetts has seen dozens of new ones open in recent years. Whether it is a new bookstore or one that has been around for decades (or centuries!), exceptional independent bookstores can be found in communities across Massachusetts.
Offering more than books, many bookstores have great gift selections, serve food and drinks, and host a variety of events. While Independent Bookstore Day is celebrated on the last Saturday of April, we hope you visit Massachusetts independent bookstores year-round.
The Oldest Bookstore and The New Bookstores on the Block
The Andover Bookstore is the oldest continuously operating independent bookstore in the United States. Dating back to 1809, it is located in a cozy English Tudor Revival home on Main Street in historic Andover.
On the other end of the spectrum, Saltwater Bookstore’s storefront was built in 1790, but this Marblehead independent bookstore with a coastal vibe just opened in 2023. Looking to visit a few bookstores in the region? Saltwater Bookstore is a stop on the North of Boston Book Trail.
Specialty Bookstores
Blue Bunny Books and Cafe, located in Dedham, is solely dedicated to children’s books. Peter Reynolds, author of The Dot and other children’s books, is the owner. Adding to the charm of a children’s book-only store, the Blue Bunny holds an “early risers” story time at 8 AM on Saturdays, with the necessary coffee available for caregivers at the onsite café.
Olive Tree Books-n-Voices in Springfield is a welcoming bookstore that highlights the works of Black authors, poets, and scholars, and serves as a gathering place for book clubs, author talks, and cultural discussions. Owner Janine Fondon has cultivated a space where literature, history, and culture intersect.
Lovestruck Books & Cafe in Harvard Square, Cambridge specializes in romance books, where the “shelves are thoughtfully curated by romance lovers for romance lovers.” The store has a café and ‘Lovestruck Couches’ that can be reserved for small group events.
Used Books
A large collection of antiquarian books awaits you at Titcomb’s Bookshop, which dates back to a rare book mail-order business that started in 1966. Located in East Sandwich, Titcomb’s has a large used book selection on its second floor including sections dedicated to Cape Cod & New England history. In 2007, the bookstore was selected as one of 50 unique bookstores in the world by the International Booksellers Federation. Titcomb’s is a stop on The Cape and Islands Bookstore Trail.
Annie’s Book Stop of Worcester is a full-service bookstore with a large selection of used books. Customers can bring in up to 20 “pre-read” books for store credit. Annie’s also takes pride in supporting books written by local authors, with a large display at the front of the store.
Beyond Books
On the site of the historic Falk’s Market in Plainville, Julie and Jeff Kinney (author of the popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid book series) have combined an indie bookstore with a café and event space. An Unlikely Story Bookstore and Café offers a gathering place where customers can browse for books while enjoying breakfast or lunch. It also serves beer and wine. Upstairs is the Second Story, where events like author readings/signings, story times, open mics, trivia nights, and much more take place.
Book Love in Plymouth is the site of a plethora of events and activities. In addition to author readings and talks, Book Love holds fitness sessions like “Paperbacks and Pilates” and even hosts a weekly farmers’ market in warmer months.
Whitelam Books in Reading hosts a unique opportunity. You can reserve “A Night at the Bookstore”– exclusive access to the bookstore from 7- 8:30 PM, customizable to your imagination, whether it’s a family game night, a creative date night, or a Galentine’s celebration.
Whether you’re in search of a new book to read or a gift for a loved one, a cozy place to read over a mug of a warm (or cold) beverage, or an author event, head to an independent bookstore in Massachusetts.
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