There is just something relaxing about visiting a local, small-town bookshop. St. Louis, Missouri, is home to many quaint bookshops that are worth checking out. 
AIA St. Louis Bookstore
Located in downtown St. Louis in the landmark Lammert Building is the AIA (American Institute of Architects) St. Louis Bookstore. Both architectural enthusiasts and locals of St. Louis are sure to find the AIA bookstore interesting. The bookstore has a large collection of architectural information about many of the local neighborhoods and attractions including the Forest Park Highlands amusement park and the Gateway Arch.
In fact, many St. Louis locals use the AIA as a resource for learning about the city. Former president Bill Clinton was once enticed by the bookshop’s interesting front window and requested that his driver pull over. He visited the shop, walking away with an assortment of St. Louis items.
The Book House
Whether you are looking for a particular book or you are just in the mood to browse, the Book House has something for you. With over 350,000 books in their inventory, you will never grow tired of browsing their ever-changing collection of books. You will find children’s, non-fiction, out-of-print publications, and even first editions.
Books are available at all price points and some of their inventory can be shopped online. One of its oldest books currently in inventory dates back to 1590. Need help choosing a book? Just ask one of the staff members for a recommendation.
Left Bank Books
Conveniently located in Central West End, Left Bank Books is one of the oldest book stores in all of St. Louis. It dates back to 1969 when a group of friends decided to come together and open a place where they could read and share their enjoyment of books with the public. The bookshop has evolved and survived through the years, despite many book shoppers going online.
In addition to a large collection of books, Left Bank Books also hosts over 300 events each year. There is also a dedicated kid’s room at Left Bank Books which is the perfect place to teach the enjoyment of reading to your children.
Subterranean Books
Subterranean Books might look small from its location on The Loop, but they still have quite a full inventory of books and other collections. You will find new releases and historical books, as well as film, music, and even art pieces. If you are looking for that perfect gift for the book enthusiast in your life, consider one of the t-shirts which are printed with top-rated book covers. A gift card to Subterranean Books is also a great choice.
Can’t choose just one book? Join the Book-A-Month Subscription which includes a hand-picked book customized to your reading preferences, sent right to your front door each and every month.
Spend an afternoon checking out the best indie bookstores of St. Louis. Whether you enjoy reading a psychological thriller or learning about the history of the city, you are sure to find it at one of these top-rated bookstores.
Image via Flickr by pasa47 used under CC By