Books have such power and influence in our lives. Whether taking us on a fantastical adventure, showing us places we have never seen before, or spreading knowledge page by page. Books can open those doors. Here are 6 of the best bookstores in Louisiana.
Located in the historic French Quarter, this bookshop has been operating as second hand booksellers for over 45 years. The shop occupies a two-story space with around 50,000-60,000 second-hand books for sale. They carry volumes on just about every topic one can think though specialize in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the south. Topics in those areas mostly include histories, architecture, music, and cooking as it relates to the region. Stop by this famous bookstore on your way to grab some beignets at Café du Monde or to see St. Louis Cathedral overlooking Jackson Square.
This store occupies a space in what is called The Rink on Washington and Prytania Avenue in the Garden District of New Orleans. Carrying a large selection of regional titles ranging from art, architecture, design, and more the store also has tons of signed first editions. National authors also occupy the space with titles in fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. Originally built in 1884 as the Crescent City Skating Rink to lure passing tourists, this historic space still attracts those strolling the streets of the garden district taking in the beautiful sites.
Selling the finest of books and puzzles in the town of St. Francisville, The Conundrum has signed copies of regional authors, fun book lover memorabilia, and nationally selling titles. Signed copies of Tom Benson’s “A Billionaire’s Journey,” “The Louisiana Homes of A. Hays Town,” “Slim Hawkins: Blues King Bee of Baton Rouge,” and more can all be found at this shop. Still, titles by authors such as J.K. Rowling and many children’s books about the region can be found in this quaint countryside store. The unique and rare collections are sure to impress every visitor!
Oak Street in the river bend area of Uptown in New Orleans is known for its embracing atmosphere. It is no wonder that Blue Cypress Books located on that very street puts out that same love and care for their new and used books. Their wide range of fiction, nonfiction, classic novels, photography, science, and more are available to be bought, sold, or traded! Second hand New Orleans cookbooks, children’s books, and Louisiana fiction plus nonfiction are also available. Open everyday except Sunday, this store makes buying and selling books with them easy as they have their criteria listed right on their website.
Two natives out of Slidell, Judd and Betty, opened this local store together in 1992. Their pre-owned discount pricing makes it friendly for all locals looking for that perfect book. The owners also offer a call or email request service where customers can request a hard to find book. Betty, Mary Lou, or Judd will personally make it their mission to find that book for his customer. They stock previously read paperback, hardback, and new first editions with rare books as well as a great selection of Children’s books also available for purchase. Stop by Mary Lou's Book Sack on Bayou Lane anytime between 10a.m.-5p.m. every Tuesday-Saturday.
Owned and operated by attorney Joseph J. DeSalvo Jr., this store specialized in fine literature, rare editions, and many works by Mr. Faulkner himself. Described by many collectors as one of America’s most charming book stores Faulkner House Books brings a welcoming feeling to everyone who enters. Though its location doesn’t hurt as it is located just off Jackson Square opposite of St. Louis Cathedral’s rear garden! Also home to the Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society, this literary community has had its home here for over 20 years! The store is happy to help find all rare, signed, and out of print books with just a simple phone call.