Ten Magical Georgia Bookshops

Reading a book can be a magical experience. They can take you across the world, through time, even into the eyes of another creature. A collection of books seems to whisper of adventures and begs to be housed somewhere equally as promising. That is where local bookstores come in. These endearing shops create an oasis for the written word and keep the magic alive.

In honor of Independent Bookstore Day, I am sharing a small collection of Georgia bookstores that are worth the visit. Be it big or small, each have something special that will have you ready for your next reading adventure.

The Story Shop

124 N Broad St, Monroe, GA 30655

Complete with hobbit holes, reading nooks where the wild things are, and a wardrobe that opens into a magical world, The Story Shop knows exactly how to bring our favorite pages to life. Located in the adorable town of Monroe, this shop will remind every visitor of their early literary adventures. As a lover of small towns, I hardly need an excuse to make the trek to Monroe… but fortunately for us all, Monroe is home to a book shop so endearing, any literary lover would think it worth the while.

Avid Bookshop

1662 S. Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606

From the bright blue facade to the whimsical decor inside, Avid Bookshop begs to be indulged. The curated offerings range from poetry to children’s books, with everything in between. The Athens’ bookshop places a special focus on supporting authors who call Georgia home. Whether it be book signings or conversations with the author, Avid Bookshop is ready to celebrate local talent. The book stewards (i.e. store staff) are also extremely knowledgable on all things literary and all things Athens. They stand ready to help you find your next weekend read or even your next favorite local eatery.

The Bookshelf

126 S. Broad Street, Thomasville, GA 31792

If the adorable window displays and promise of literary discovery isn’t enough to inspire you to make the trek to Thomasville to visit The Bookshelf, then maybe their delightful podcast will. The Bookshelf owner Annie B. Jones hosts an amazing literary podcast called From the Front Porch. Listen to it on your drive there and it will surely have you ready to read the moment you walk through their light blue doors.

E. Shaver Bookseller

326 Bull St. Savannah, GA 31401

At first glance E. Shaver looks like any other bookstore, but once inside it is anything but. As you round a corner you’ll find another corner, and another, each leading you to a little piece of a librarian’s heaven. From the amazing selection to the typewriter in the back that lets you live out your writer’s fantasy to the eye-catching cats that lure you in from the window sills, this is the kind of place where you loose track of time.

Nancy Abarca

Book Tavern

936 Broad St, Augusta, GA 30901

From my first step in Augusta’s Book Tavern, the floor to ceiling shelves complete with sliding ladders and a book loft had me hooked. My attraction to the colorful shelves was validated by the robust, versatile selection available upon them. Do not let the new location fool you, this shop has been in business for 18 years. The owner is clearly passionate about connecting readers to ideas, new and old. Even though I was seeking somewhat obscure books on the day of my visit, I walked out with both of my selections in hand. When searching for those books that are off the beaten path, there is something to be said for consulting experts.

Read Shop

4300 Paces Ferry Rd SE Ste 125, Atlanta, GA 30339

Read Shop in Atlanta serves up unique cookbooks, NYT best-sellers, and Stumptown coffee (which happens to be my favorite.) With a fun selection of Rifle Paper Company stationary as well, this little spot lays claim to all my favorite things. While the globally inspired cookbooks alone are reason enough for the visit, a pairing of the perfect roast handled by actual baristas elevates the experience.

JudyBug’s Books

1033 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901

In the midst of an ever-expanding downtown scene, JudyBug’s Books has been a mainstay for the borderline Georgia town of Columbus. The quirky decor and vintage bookcases signal that this shop was here before it was cool and plans to stick around. With two-parts we’re here to help you connect with a book you’ll love and one-part we don’t care what you think of us, JudyBug’s reminds the nerdy-kid outcast inside of us that books will always be our friend.

The Book Lady Bookstore

6 E Liberty St, Savannah, GA 31401

A bookshop in Georgia’s charmed, historic Savannah is not required to have brick walls, creaky wooden floors, and loved sofas, but the Book Lady Bookstore is kind enough to offer us all of the above. With an enthralling selection for booklovers of all ages, this shop will certainly surprise you. It was here that I talked myself out of acquiring the most gorgeous edition of The Master and Margarita five years ago. I still regret it. Go for the books, stay for the charm, and do not leave empty handed.

Gottwals Books

909 Carroll Street, Perry, GA 31069

Carroll Street in downtown Perry is home many pleasant surprises, this welcoming bookstore among them. Gottwals primarily offers used books and is likely to have, not just the old book you have been looking for, but also the particular edition. When I was inspired by Close Reads podcast to read the lesser known 1818 edition of Frankenstein, I knew exactly where to go. In the event they do not have what you seek, Gottwals has several shops in middle Georgia, including Macon, Byron, and Warner Robins. Meaning, the odds are in your favor.

A Cappella Books

208 Haralson Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

On the edge of Inman Park and Little Five Points, A Cappella Books finds itself playing the dual roles of being a neighborhood resource and an urban attraction. The front room of the shop welcomes each visitor with shiny new releases but calls to the collectors with the first editions and other used books in the side room. Next time you find yourself in East Atlanta, make a point to stop into A Cappella Books; there is something for everyone.

There are times when a bookshop can inspire me even more than a book itself. The evidence that many have shared their ideas through words and many more will, can be promising, elevating even. Though I am certain that there are dozens more adorable bookshops waiting for me to discover them, these ten have stolen my heart for the time being and I hope (if you haven’t already) that you will let them share their magic with you too.

In honor of Independent Bookstore Day this weekend, remember to pay your favorite shop a visit. If I did not list your top Georgia bookstore here, drop it in the comments and I will be sure to make a trip out of it! Happy hunting.