Best Local Independent Bookstores in Rochester, NY

People love the convenience and comfort of the local Borders and Barnes and Noble stores, especially those super-sized locations. However, there are a few local, independent bookstores in Rochester, NY that are absolute gems and worth checking out.

Lift Bridge Book Shop

The Lift Bridge Book Shop is located at 45 Main St., in Brockport. They boast two floors of literary greatness. Come visit as a college student to order required textbooks for the College at Brockport. Or get cash when you sell back used textbooks.

Adults can join book discussion groups and meet favorite authors. Kids of all ages also have special book events and storytimes, based on age. Every summer, schoolagers can sign up for a three week summer camp. Brownies and Girl Scouts troops can also schedule special badge-earning events.

Lift Bridge Book Shop is also the sponsor for the annual Rochester Children's Book Festival.

Mood Makers Books

Mood Makers Books, located in Village Gate at 274 N. Goodman St. in downtown Rochester, is more than just a book store. It is also an art gallery, gift shop, and gathering place. The focus is on celebrating African-American culture, but everybody is welcome inside their doors.

The store offers not only new and used books that are Afro-centric in nature, but also greeting cards, gifts, collectibles, and fine art. Enjoy a cup of free coffee while you wander throughout, soaking in the culture.

Mood Makers also hosts several events. Enjoy art showings, live music, and open mic poetry. It's truly a cultural experience.

Psychic's Thyme

Psychic's Time is located at 439 Monroe Avenue in downtown Rochester. They cater to the New Age crowd with their merchandise and corresponding books. You can go in to have a reading done or get a massage from a licensed massage therapist. Psychic's Time also sponsors a pet rescue program.

Writer's & Books

Writers & Books is the local destination for current and aspiring writers. They offer classes for adults and children, as well as numerous seminars. They even publish locally, with their imprint, Big Pencil Press. Visit their bookstore at 740 University Avenue in downtown Rochester to check out their bookstore.

Local, independent bookstores in Rochester, NY each have their own personality and style. Their uniqueness serve to help them keep up with those nearby big chains, while simultaneously bringing together the Rochester community.