The Best Independent Bookstores In Nashville

For those looking for pre-loved books, movies, music or video games, McKay’s has a large selection of everything from gardening to self-improvement to fiction. Trade in for cash or store credit or shop the store’s shelves, which are full of others’ previously owned goods. Occasional author signings and other events on the calendar are free to the public.

Owned by Ann Patchett and Karen Hayes, Parnassus Books sells fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature and has an extensive section of books written by local authors. The store was named after Mount Parnassus, the home of the Muses in Greek mythology. Considered “Nashville’s Parnassus,” the store provides a place for writers and readers to connect through books with the hope of contributing to the cultural character of Nashville.

Committed to Nashville’s creative community, Rhino Books accepts gently used hardbound and paperback books, instruments and vinyl records for sale or trade. The locally owned and operated store sells classics, art books, children’s books and history books. There is also a small collection of rhinos scattered throughout the store.
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