The Best Independent Bookstores In Maine

Independent bookstores offer much more than a good book. They are communities where book lovers listen to readings or bond with others over their passion for the written word. These are the best independent bookstores in Maine.

1. Print: A Bookstore

Bookstore

Portland’s bookstore Print was started by two Mainers (one of whom is Richard Russo, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist). The store sells a collection of books that include local writers and national bestsellers. Discounts are available for educators and students, and the friendly staff is accommodating.

2. Longfellow Books

Bookstore

This adored bookstore near Portland’s Monument Square is named after Maine’s own Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The bookstore features many local artists and also hosts poetry and book readings, book clubs, and author Q and As.

3. Annie’s Book Stop

Bookstore

Annie’s Book Stop prides itself on being “The Friendliest Book Store on the Coast of Maine.” The huge selection includes a variety of children’s books for all ages, as well as an extensive collection of used books.

5. Sherman’s Books & Stationery

Bookstore

The oldest bookstore in Maine, Sherman’s Books & Stationery first began as a print shop that opened in 1886. Today, they have six locations, all of which are open daily.

6. Gulf of Maine Books

Bookstore

Gulf of Maine Books in Brunswick first opened its doors in 1979. Bookseller, poet, and progressive Gary Lawless is the owner of the popular bookshop. He is always looking to empower people with poems and songs, and you can bet that he has a book in mind that will be just what you’re looking for.

7. Nonesuch Books

Bookstore

Nonesuch Books has two locations in Maine—one in Biddeford and one in South Portland. They always have unique book signings and events going on, so be sure to check in regularly. Plus, whoever said books are cheaper online didn’t know about Nonesuch. Sales and coupons are available for loyal customers who visit their site.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.