A Bibliophile's Guide to the Literary Treasures of The Town


Oakland is a city rich in cultural diversity and creativity, and its bookstores reflect this unique spirit. Whether you're an avid reader or a collector of rare books, Oakland has a bookstore for you! Join me on a journey to the ten best bookstores in Oakland.

  1. A Great Good Place for Books
  2. East Bay Booksellers
  3. Marcus Books
  4. Moments Cooperative and Community Space
  5. Pegasus Books
  6. Sistah Scifi
  7. Spectator Books
  8. The Bookmark Bookstore
  9. The Collective Oakland
  10. Walden Pond Books

A Great Good Place for Books


A Great Good Place for Books, nestled in picturesque Montclair, is a bibliophile's paradise. The bookstore’s likable staff double as passionate bookworms. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a literary haven.

Address: 6120 La Salle Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
 


East Bay Booksellers


East Bay Booksellers is a community-oriented bookstore in Temescal. With a focus on social justice, this bookstore hosts thought-provoking author events.

Address: 5433 College Avenue, Oakland, CA 94618
 


Marcus Books


A historic landmark, Marcus Books is one of the oldest independent Black bookstores in the United States. Founded in 1960, it has been a vital hub for African-American literature and culture.

Address: 3900 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Oakland, CA 94609
 


Moments Cooperative and Community Space


Rooted in a commitment to uplift marginalized voices, Moments Cooperative and Community Space is a volunteer-led, non-for-profit that serves as a hub for QTBIPOC creators. This downtown Oakland sanctuary is a five minute walk from the 12th Street BART.

Address: 410 13th St, Oakland, CA 94612
 


Pegasus Books


Pegasus Books has made a name for itself as a reliable source for both new and used books. The store is a favorite among Oakland locals, offering a range of genres and personalized recommendations.

Address: 5560 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618
 


Sistah Scifi


Sistah Scifi is the first Black-owned science fiction bookstore in the United States. A Sistah Scifi Book Vending Machine is in Oaklandia Cafe x Bakery, and carries speculative fiction titles celebrating Black and Indigenous cultures by authors such as NK Jemisin, Nalo Hopkinson, and Oakland-based Angela Dalton.

Address: 555 12th Street Oakland, CA 94612

 


Spectator Books


Located on Piedmont Avenue, Spectator Books is an oasis for used book lovers. With its collection of secondhand books and affordably priced books, this unassuming store invites you to explore its shelves.

Address: 4163 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
 


The Bookmark Bookstore


The Bookmark Bookstore is managed by the Friends of the Oakland Public Library and staffed by dedicated volunteers. With 17,000+ gently-used books, proceeds support the city's libraries. Oakland Public Library members enjoy exclusive discounts.

Address: 721 Washington Street, Oakland, CA 94607
 


The Collective Oakland


Unite with the Oakland’s community at The Collective. This vibrant space offers a spot to read something dope, drink something good, and chill somewhere cool.

Address: 811 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
 


Walden Pond Books


Walden Pond Books has been an Oakland institution since 1973, and offers an extensive collection of used and rare books, including first editions and out-of-print treasures. It's the perfect place to discover hidden literary gems.

Address: 3316 Grand Avenue
 

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Finally, if your appetite for reading is bigger than your capacity for spending, check out Oakland Public Library. With 16 branches throughout the city, there is sure to be a location near you. You can borrow everything from books to hiking backpacks!
 


See all that The Town has to offer! Check out our Digital Inspiration Guide and start planning your trip!