VIBE

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist George Will once wrote of the Strand: “The 18 miles worth saving in this city are at the corner of Broadway and 12th Street. They are the crammed shelves of the Strand Book Store." His fond sentiments for this family-run octogenarian bookstore are clearly shared by a large chunk of the New York population—despite notoriously chaotic shelves, the Strand continues to grow (its latest slogan boasts “18 miles of books!”). The Strand specialty remains reasonably priced used books (don’t miss the 50 cent book carts lined up outside along the front of the store), though they also stock a huge range of new titles and one of the city’s largest collections of rare books.

USE A PURCHASE FROM HERE FOR

Filling out your home library; a gift for bookworms

WHY WE LIKE IT

On a rainy afternoon, nothing beats holing up in the Strand for a few hours of trawling the “miles” of crammed shelves. The endearingly confusing organization system, the colorful characters that frequent the store, and the impressive selection of books ensure that a visit here is always an adventure.

GOOD TO KNOW

The Strand hosts a regular program of literary events that includes readings by authors like David Sedaris and Jhumpa Lahiri. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your favorite bookworm, Strand tote bags have a bookish cachet that makes them an “it” accessory among the NYC well-read set. If you’re in the market for a rare book (which includes everything from signed first editions to interesting vintage volumes), note that the rare book room closes at 6:15pm daily. Strand books are also available for rent by the linear foot (or even mile…) for film and photo shoots. If you can’t make it in person, don’t fret, because all of their merchandise is also available online.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Central Park - kiosk across from the Pierre Hotel (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Printed Matter, Inc. (New York); Daunt Books (London); The Bookworm (Beijing)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.