How to Find Manhattan's Best Bookstores

Manhattan is a very culturally cosmopolitan and exciting city. There are abundant libraries, museums, theaters and, of course, bookstores. Reading is a very popular pastime among New Yorkers. You can spot New Yorkers reading on the subway, in the city parks, on benches, in coffeehouses and anywhere else you could possibly imagine. Here are some of the best places to purchase books in Manhattan.

Instructions

1. Stop by the Strand Bookstore on Broadway in Greenwich Village. The Strand is a wondrous place to just explore a vast book selection for hours. The books are also extremely cheap. If you're looking for new books, used books, out-of-print books, rare books or anything else under the sun, the Strand is the place for you. Be sure to check out their $1 bookshelf located right outside of the shop. There are plenty of hidden gems inside this store.

2. Check out St. Marks Bookshop on 3rd Avenue. Located right in the center of the hopping East Village, St. Marks Bookshop is a hip and extensive independent bookstore. Since 1977, this has been a popular place to browse a large selection of books and meet up with friends. The selection of art and design books is particularly amazing. This is a must-see for any bookstore lovers in the area.

3. Go to Posman Books in midtown. This bookstore is located inside of bustling and hectic Grand Central Station, and is a lovely haven to browse for books to read on a long train ride. There is terrific selection of fiction, non-fiction, design books, history books, poetry books, and many, many other topics. This is a great independent bookstore with a solid selection.

4. Shop at 192 Books on 10th Avenue. This relaxing Chelsea bookstore has a magnificent selection of art books. There is a solid array of both used and new titles here. The ambiance of this cozy and charming bookstore tends to give customers an old-world, classic feel. Browsing the quality selection at 192 Books would be a perfect way to spend a rainy Saturday afternoon.

5. Go to Bluestockings on Allen Street in the Lower East Side. Bluestockings carries mostly independent- and smaller-press books. The selection of books available here is extremely unique. The store hours are great, the prices are low and the staff (mostly volunteers) is wonderful and helpful. Another plus is the cafe part of the shop --after you purchase a book, you can sip on a latte while reading.

Tips & Warnings

• The East Village has a lot of independent bookshops. Take a walk around the area and explore. Have fun!