11 Of The Coolest Bookstores In & Around Pittsburgh, PA

A big idea, indeed — The Big Idea Bookstore is a non-profit establishment that defines itself as having a radical, democratic and anarchist modus operandi, wishing to instruct and inspire people through literature that is beyond any prejudices. Their shelves boast hundreds of new and used books, but you can also pick up stickers, patches, pins, greeting cards, and more. The Big Idea is the perfect spot to sit and have a read over a cup of coffee in the trendy neighborhood of Bloomfield, Pittsburgh’s Little Italy neighborhood.

The ‘best-named bookstore’ award goes to Phantom of the Attic Comics, which supports two establishments: one for books and one for games. Both shops are just steps away from CMU and PITT campuses on the trendy Craig Avenue, in Oakland. This rare and unique space is paradise for collectors and comic lovers who can also enjoy having a chat with the friendly and knowledgeable staff who won’t hesitate to look out for that one comic that you can’t find.

The biggest and oldest independent bookstore that’s definitely worth the short ride out of town is the Penguin Bookshop. Situated in the heart of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, just 20 minutes away from the city, Penguin Book Shop has also been recommended by the one and only Stephen King in End of Watch. Founded in 1929, this historic shop has an extensive collection of books for all ages plus journals, cards, newspapers, and magazines. It’s a place to read and find that story you need along with story times, games and craft for your kids, or you can attend book-signing events. This place is a must-see whether you live in Pittsburgh, or you’re just passing by.

Also situated on the trendy Craig Avenue in Oakland is the Caliban Book Shop. One of the most fascinating things about this bookstore is their intriguing collector items, making Caliban possibly the best bookstore in and around the city for book collectors looking for that hard-to-find piece. Caliban Book Shop also offers professional appraisal services and is a member of the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America (ABAA), which is the main professional organization of book dealers and appraisers specializing in rare books. Don’t miss out!

Situated in the heart of Bloomfield, the East End Book Exchange buys and sells used, rare, and local books. With an excellent selection of both popular and unusual used books, this local bookstore is another great place in the city to visit and spend some time. Ask for books recommendations from the keen and friendly staff, bring the kids to enjoy their own cute space, and don’t forget to check out the events section so that you can nab your own signed copy.

With three different locations including those in Squirrel Hill and Oakland, Amazing Books happens to be the only used bookstore in downtown Pittsburgh and with one of the friendliest owners in the city, Eric Ackland. Vinyl lovers take note: Amazing Books recently added records to their three locations, and Ackland is planning on starting a writer’s school in the Squirrel Hill locale and an all-vegan café in their Oakland location – two amazing ideas!

Are you in Oakmont looking for thrillers, crime stories, espionage, and mystery fiction? Mystery Lovers Bookshop has it all and happens to be one of the largest mystery bookstores in the entire country. The Mystery Writers of America awarded Mystery Lovers Bookshop with a Raven Award in 2010 as recognition for their contribution to mystery writing. They also have a gorgeous weekly e-newsletter – a must-read when it comes to being updated on upcoming events and books plus reviews. While Mystery Lovers mainly sells new books, don’t miss out on their collection of signed first editions!