Bookstores are becoming a thing of the past. Not only is reading down but most people are going to the internet when they need information anymore. Even if you want a fictional story, people are using e-readers and downloading the content to a tablet in order to store more reading material in one, convenient electronic devise. 

There is a group of people that still believe in the power of reading a physical book and the Twin Cities recognizes that by having some great independent bookstores available for all ages to enjoy. If you’re ready to curl up on the couch with a great book and don’t feel like paying for shipping by buying online, check out these great shops in the Twin Cities that need local support.

Common Good Books – 165 Western Avenue North, St. Paul

This four year old store is the type of store that wants to offer as much as possible to readers. Bookworms can peruse the naturally lit tunnels for a new read at this quaint, secluded-feeling shop. Check it out near Western and Selby Avenues in St. Paul.

Birchbark Books & Native Arts – 2115 West 21^st Street, Minneapolis

Head over to the north side of Lake of the Isles by Kenwood to find Birchbark Books & Native Arts. Minnesota author Louise Erdrich owns the shop and has combined her love for an intimate bookstore with a sense of Native pride as Erdrich is an enrolled Turtle Mountain Chippewa. Get your hard-to-find books here along with Native prayer sticks, quilts, jewelry and artwork. It’s a great place to socialize and discuss books.

Once Upon A Crime – 604 West 26^th Street, Minneapolis

Once Upon A Crime is one of the longest-running full-service mystery bookstores in the nation. They offer a ton of opportunities to meet and greet mystery authors and if you look through the back hallway, you’ll find several mystery book rarities.

There are at least a dozen independent bookstores in the Twin Cities that need your support. Get a great book from a bookstore while you still can!