What do you look for in a good bookstore? Well, a wide selection of books, of course! Maybe a cozy corner to curl up with a newly purchased book? How about a cup of coffee to grab before you start pursuing titles? You can expect all of that and more at these independently owned bookstores in Oklahoma City.
Full Circle Bookstore
Oklahoma largest independent and locally owned bookstore boasts an impressive collection of over 60,000 titles, ranging from bestsellers to obscure gems. But what sets Full Circle apart is the cozy vibe that permeates the whole store—with wooden shelves, comfy chairs, wood burning fireplaces and a cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, sweets, treats, beer and wine. The rolling ladder really makes you feel like Belle from "Beauty and the Beast." The store also hosts various events, including author book signings, book clubs and poetry readings.
Bookish
If you spot a book bus at an event in OKC, it belongs to the folks at Bookish, OKC’s only locally owned, used bookstore. If you love the book bus and need more, definitely check out their brick and mortar just off Western Avenue.
Bookish was born out of a love for sustainability and stories. They’ve given life to 10,000 books and counting! Partnering with a local recycling company and carefully sorting through their stockpile, Bookish handpicks the books that still hold the promise of captivating readers' hearts. Adjacent to their shop is Caboose Coffee because nothing beats the combination of coffee and a great book.
Commonplace Books
Their tagline is “a common love for books and people.” Commonplace is a gathering spot where readers can connect over a shared love of literature. The carefully curated selection emphasizes quality over quantity, featuring titles that inspire thought and conversation. The inside is colorful and quirky, and the massive, velvet green couch is just oh-so-inviting. Take a seat, read a book and enjoy some coffee. That’s right—Commonplace Books is attached to Sincerely Coffee Roasters.
Second Story Books & Cafe
And so the story goes, co-owners Kathryn and Britni met in 2011 while working at a bookstore. Sharing a mutual love for books and a vision of creating a cozy, welcoming space where readers could gather, they decided to bring that dream to life. Thus, Second Story Books & Cafe was born—a place where book lovers can read, meet and build a sense of community.
In addition to offering a carefully curated selection of new books, bookish merchandise and local art, Second Story features a charming café that serves coffee and tea. After all, what pairs better with a good book than a warm beverage?
What truly sets Second Story apart, though, is its dedication to fostering a community of readers. The store hosts monthly book clubs that cater to various genres and interests, including a unique silent reading club where there's no pressure to talk—just the quiet companionship of fellow book enthusiasts, all immersed in their book.
The Floating Bookshop at Sailor & the Dock
All aboard The Floating Bookshop, a unique concept within Sailor & The Dock in West Village. Here, you'll rekindle your passion for reading, with offerings that span new releases, timeless classics, imaginative tales, art, science, history and hidden gems. The Floating Bookshop is dedicated to featuring diverse voices and perspectives from around the globe, ensuring that readers of all ages and interests find something to inspire them. Just a couple doors down in Sailor & The Dock is Hunny & Honey, a coffee and milk tea shop because a coffee shop next to a bookstore just feels right.
Nappy Roots Books
Established in 2017, Nappy Roots Books is Oklahoma City's only Black-owned, Afro-centric bookstore. Their mission is to provide literature that reflects the culture and interests of African people to the community at an affordable cost. In addition to offering a range of new and used books for all ages, they host book discussions and cultural events throughout the year!
