Products
Review Highlights
“Everything is incredibly low priced, well stocked and is any book lover's (or even just book liker's) DREAM.” in 51 reviews
“After stuffing the book inside, she tossed the tote over her shoulder to reveal its reverse: STRAND BOOKSTORE.” in 56 reviews
“s. The best seating is at the top floor in the rare books room, in case you are looking for a place to curl u” in 30 reviews
Location & Hours
Amenities and More
About the Business
Business owner information
Nancy B.
Welcome to Strand Book Store, New York City's legendary home of 18 Miles of new, used and rare books. Since 1927.
Ask the Community
Q:
Are there always a long line to go inside due to COVID?
A:
Q:
Does the strand offer alcohol at their events?
A:
No - although I don't know if that applies to private events (i.e., weddings held in the Rare Book Room).
Susan L.4 years ago
Recommended Reviews
Overall rating
1693 reviews
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- 1564214Apr 23, 2024
Strand Bookstore is the greatest book store I've ever visited. They say they have 18 miles of books and the huge selection does prove this to be true.
The display tables were well curated and lead to me discovering new books I was not aware of. I love how the tables are categorized by genre. You can get lost in this store browsing all the tables and shelves.
If I needed help searching for something there was always a staff member nearby and ready to help.
When I am in NYC strand is a must see location for me. Paradise for book lovers.Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0 - Apr 7, 2024Updated review
One of my favorite spots to browse in NYC. New books, used books, and cute gifts abound in a cozy place. Save a few dollars on a used book or find a fun mug, tote bag, etc. as a thoughtful present--you can go either way.
This is a large store with 3 levels. They also to special events, such as book signings or talks.
The kids area is fun for little kids as well. Overall, a great shop with something for everyone!Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0Dec 19, 2020Previous reviewThe Strand was already one of my favorite classic-NYC places to browse, but now I would probably give it an extra star if I could. I stopped in today while in the neighborhood and met Nancy, the owner. She was standing right inside the store (safely masked up) and saying hello to everyone who came in the door, asking if they needed help with anything.
When the owner of the store is happy to serve as a greeter during the holiday season, that says good things about a business.Dec 18, 2020Previous reviewWhat is there not to love about this place? If you are a bibliophile like me, you will enjoy browsing this huge used bookstore that is as organized as a library. You can find whatever you are looking for with ease or just wander through the racks.
If you would prefer to pick up a cute or quirky gift item, they have you covered as well. Great NYC-themed gift items and fun tote bags of all kinds. Look around, and you will notice their totes all around the city--they are both practical for schlepping your stuff and a bit of a fashion statement. - Nico E.Knoxville, TN111Mar 28, 2024
Had every book ever. I even found myself a whole selection of Sopranos books. Not only was there so much, but there was also a lot of rare ones to look at too upstairs. Cozy asf up there too.
Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Becca M.Rockville, MD711089Mar 10, 2024
Ok, I kind of really hate reading, (always have, REALLY wish i didn't, i just simply can't help it) but after coming through here and seeing all the different genres and personality in this place, it lowkey made me want to read a book LOL. I always enjoy looking at the nonfiction and travel sections, and the selection is HUGE. The place is really well organized and clean too, which makes it easier to navigate through the three floors worth of books they have. Also for the niche audience that would care... they do have jellycats.
Listening to chemtrails over the country club while walking through this place is the ultimate vibe.. would recommend 10/10.Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0 - Feb 27, 2024
Oh my god, The Strand. This bookstore was my world until I moved out of New York City and the other night I had the opportunity to return for my friend's reading. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with that exquisite smell of books and all the memories flooded in. I almost cried.
They have it all here from used books to new releases. I was here for my friend, Jennifer Belle's reading from her new book, Swanna in Love. It's the perfect place (up on the top floor) for a reading, intimate without being cramped, excellent acoustics and they were able to fit in a pretty huge crowd, most of which were seated. I appreciate that they do presales for readings and you can purchase a signed copy of the book ahead of time and then pick it up when you arrive for the reading.
Independent bookstores are the real national treasure. Please let's do everything we can to protect them so that they don't become extinct.Helpful 7Thanks 1Love this 10Oh no 0 - Liv D.New York, NY03Feb 25, 2024
5 stars for this bookstore, no doubt! This exceptionally large bookstore full of books and books and BOOKS! I'm not kidding, this is the most books I've ever seen. There is such a wide selection with amazing, award-winning and eye-catching choices! Books are not expensive and they have tons of different covers and translations. There are travel, religion, fiction; nonfiction, informative, rare, cheap, free, all different kinds of books! Any reader must visit! The service is great too! Plus, they sweatshirts, mugs, magnets, bags, candles, socks...a LOT of merch!
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Mythreyi P.Jersey City, NJ033Feb 3, 2024
Time flies in here! Not too crowded! Cheap books and interesting souvenirs. Couldn't find a reading room though.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Jan 19, 2024
Amazing bookstore fitting of its iconic status. New York City is blessed to have you. Amazing selection, knowledgeable staff, and they have great book signing events too. This is a must visit whenever you're around the area.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Jan 16, 2024
The Strand is an ultimate Manhattan staple. This predates any of the newer locations popping up outside of Union Square in recent years. This predates the new coffee shop that I guess appeared a couple ago. Predates any gentrification. This has been the busy, yet serene getaway in the heart of Union Square.
You're swimming in books, but almost any. Books of any age and year can probably be found here. You can get lost reading anything and everything. I don't know what else can be heavenly for anyone that even remotely cares about books.
Beat the heat or blistering cold and spend some time reading or browsing and you won't regret it.Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0 - Joanne P.Nashville, TN032Jan 9, 2024
Nice book store lots of variety. There's a wonderful little coffee shop shop inside that I had a yummy pumpkin spice latte. They have great merch as well.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0