Reading is a lovely pastime, whether you curl up in bed under a blanket for the afternoon, or you cuddle with your children on the couch. The bookstore has always been a part of creating those magical moments. It takes you back to what life was like before smartphones and e-readers so you can focus you on the beauty of the written word. Here are our 6 favorite bookstores in Maryland.
If you want to visit a classic bookstore where neighbors are likely to greet each other and talented authors stop by for a chat, come to The Ivy Bookshop in Baltimore. You can even visit once a month for “Reading with Ralphie” hosted by Rafael Alvarez. Readings and discussions are certain to be stimulating.
For those in search of a first edition or something rare and unique, Second Story Books is the place to go. Scholars, collectors, and avid readers may find it thrilling to hunt for a long-lost copy of a rare book or to find something that has been out of print for decades. This is like treasure hunting for book lovers.
John Waters of Time Magazine said this is where he would loiter if in search of new friends. It’s the type of place that invites stopping by and spending hours browsing, reading, chatting, and just being. Part eccentric, part a blast from the past, and overall rewarding, this is a Baltimore stop that locals have come to adore.
Sure, this is where students go to buy books for school but the selection is vast and if you are a Maryland fan, this is an excellent place to pick up more than books. In addition to reading academic work that is not widely distributed in other stores, you can purchase the latest Terrapins shirt or mug.
Quirky and local, the Unicorn Bookshop is a fun experience when out on the Eastern Shore. They carry a large variety of books with around 30,000 titles in stock at all times. This provides readers with the perfect opportunity to pick up a new book when heading to the beach. Plus, if you are looking for books on Maryland’s history, they have a well-developed section for your review.
This cute little book store off a lovely brick sidewalk is the type of bookstore you would imagine in a painting. You’ll fall in love before ever walking in the door. Once inside, the 23,000 books are sure to capture your interest. They have a loyalty program that allows you to earn points, events and everything you could want in a community bookstore.