Review Highlights
“If you love books, Midtown Scholar Bookstore is a must visit bookseller in the greater Harrisburg area.” in 3 reviews
“This is probably the best bookstore in central Pennsylvania.” in 2 reviews
“A bibliophile could easily spend an entire weekend getting to know this shop.” in 2 reviews
Location & Hours
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Amenities and More
About the Business
Great Used Books * Fair-Trade Coffees and Teas * Art Gallery * Acoustic Music
Ask the Community
Q:
Is this store handicap accessible?
A:
There is a street level entrance to the main floor where there are many books and the coffee bar. However, there are multiple levels of the store accessable only via steps.
Patrick B.4 years ago 1 person found this helpful
Recommended Reviews
Overall rating
131 reviews
5 stars
4 stars
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2 stars
1 star
- Nov 30, 2023
This bookstore was one of the best I've been too. They had a lot of books and a lot of original masterpieces as well. I love that their employees took the time out and helped us finding a particular series. After he and my family member were talking in depth about that series which I absolutely loved.
Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Dec 6, 2023
Lovely book shop with a great selection of books! The staff was helpful and did some research for me about a series I wanted to start so I would know which book to begin with. The charm of the shop itself is worth a stop in, even if you aren't much of a reader.
Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Nov 28, 20226 check-ins
If you love books, Midtown Scholar Bookstore is a must visit bookseller in the greater Harrisburg area. They have a gigantic selection of books - new books, used books, collectible books, niche books, reference books - it's unreal just how many books you can find here. From the cheap $1 books outside to the pricier antiques inside, there's something here for everyone.
There's also a nice selection of drinks and food if you're in the mood. The staff are super helpful if you need anything at all. The atmosphere is so cool - it feels both modern and restored rustic. Visiting Midtown Scholar is an experience you have to have if you live in south central Pennsylvania!Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Oct 4, 2022
Great local bookstore - finally got to check it out over the weekend. easy parking across the street - not sure how it would be on a weekday, but for a rainy Saturday - no worries. multiple levels with nooks & crannies for perusing the selection of tomes. Was also drawn to their selection of antique maps. Can also get food & drinks and sit a bit if you can find a seat. Really nice atmosphere for a booklover!
Recommended!Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0 - Feb 13, 2022
I passed by this place during my long walk in search of street murals in Harrisburg. I entered the store with the intention only to warm myself up on this cold winter day; however, I was immediately intrigued once inside. The main space has a 2-story tall ceiling featuring an old oxidized copper/brass bell. The entire upper walls on the right side was a huge mural of people engaging in all kinds of leisure activities. There were staircases in the back leading to the loft, and on the sides leading to the second floor. The structure, the ambiance, and the smell of books were so inviting, begging me to stay longer and explore more. Yeah, the setting is so very "scholarly" that it really reminded me of a library I used to spend time studying while in college.
There's a café right at the entrance which doubled up as book checkout registers. There are used books in the second floor gallery. And there's a separate room through a door on the left for children's books.
It's very rare these days to find an independent bookstore, let alone a cool one like this one. I strongly recommend a visit if you're in the area. Together with the Broad Street Markets just across the street, it'll definitely be worth your trip.Helpful 25Thanks 0Love this 28Oh no 0 - Jun 9, 2023
Huge bookstore that is nicely categorized. They have a little drink counter, I got a raspberry Italian soda which was good but didn't have the cream which, to me, is an integral part of the drink. I did end up getting a book too.
Helpful 2Thanks 1Love this 1Oh no 0 - 44258494Apr 15, 2023
This is the kind of independently owned bookstore that is becoming increasingly rare and difficult to find. It's basically what you'd expect to find in bigger cities - wall to wall books, crammed into narrow rows, with a mix of modern bestsellers and more obscure works. The floors creek, there's a slight smell of mildew in the air, and it's wonderful for bibliophiles. All of this creates a wonderful atmosphere to grab some tea or coffee and sit down with a recent book purchase. The coffee shop is good enough to exist on its own, the classic, non-corporate bookstore just helps put it over the top.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0
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