Get Your Nose In a Book

The summer heat is here in Memphis, and that means our options for leisure are limited. For Memphians this season means most days you can be inside, but you can’t turn on the oven. You can be outside, but you have to be submerged in water. You’ll need to stay smart, but also stay safe and we can’t think of a better way to accomplish both than reading some great books. If you’re so inclined, here are some fabulous ways to find your next favorite read and shop locally while you’re at it. 

Pages for Different Stages

Whether you love fiction, non-fiction, gardening guides, cookbooks, graphic novels, or anything in-between, Memphis has plenty of bookshelves to browse and now’s the perfect time to seek them out. We’ve got a great library system, a beautiful local bookstore, and several bookshops that sell both new and second hand titles. 

Here are some faves:

1. Benjamin L. Hooks Library - Referred to as the “main library” by most Memphians, the Benjamin L. Hooks Library sets smack dab in the middle of the city on Poplar Avenue near Chickasaw Oaks. Featuring four floors of books, periodicals, meeting rooms, and even a social lab for teens, the Hooks library is a true community center. Their kids’ section is whimsical and bustling with some of the best children’s librarians in the city…they even have a small courtyard for reading, getting some fresh air, or letting your toddler be loud for a few moments. But their staff is the real prize. The Hooks library hosts engaging social and educational events all year long…from Jazz nights to escape rooms to book fairs hosting all local authors…it’s a great place to find your next adventure both on and off the page.

2. Novel. - If you live anywhere near East Memphis, chances are you love Novel. This local shop started several years ago after the cities’ beloved bookstore closed down and the staff resurrected their dream store in its place. Novel is the perfect place to look for a new or classic title, ask an expert bookseller their opinions, shop for a gift, have lunch with a friend, or grab a glass of wine during Happy Hour. It’s really “the good life” with a storefront. Get on their mailing list to get details about book signings, their annual Jr. Bookseller Program for your kiddos, and other special events throughout the year. This summer they’re featuring popups with local bakeries every Wednesday and Saturday morning…as if looking for a new book could get any better…pastries!

3. Burke’s Bookstore - This midtown staple keeps the quirk in independent booksellers. Selling new and second hand titles, Burke’s offers a warm (dog friendly) environment for you and your kids to wander about and find something new-to-you to read. Owned by a local writer and poet, Burke’s will charm your socks off and inspire you to no end. The window displays draw you in and the good reads keep you distracted for hours…even in the cozy space. Bonus: take your new book next door to Alchemy for a cocktail and you’ve lived your best summer life. 

4. Second Editions - This second hand bookstore inside of the Benjamin L. Hooks Library is always bursting with personality and amazing literary deals. From the moment you step inside and hear the first notes of jazz coming from the small radio at the sales counter, you’ll know you’re in a special place. New titles are $5 and older titles are $2…hands down, this is the best place to get classics. The titles are well organized and there’s even a section of rare, antique books with gorgeous covers. Whether you’re going to find a specific title or in the mood to take a chance on something new, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Wherever you decide to shop for books this summer, make a commitment to shop locally as much as you can. Invest in the city while you invest in your imagination and you’ll probably make a few bookselling friends along the way. Happy Endings!