Best Bookstores & Libraries in Austin, Texas, United States
1. BookPeople
Austin's largest independent bookstore offering new and used books across a wide range of genres. Known for its extensive selection of local authors and events.
- Wide Range of Selection: Features an extensive collection of books, including rare and out-of-print titles.
- Local Author Focus: Highlights local authors and their works.
- Community Events: Hosts author readings, signings, and other community events.
2. Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Holds the largest collection of Texas-related materials in the world, including books, maps, photographs, and government documents.
- Texas History: Specializes in Texas history and government resources.
- Research Center: Provides access to primary source materials for research purposes.
- Public Access: Open to the public for research and learning about Texas history.
3. Central Library
Modern, spacious library located in downtown Austin offering books, e-books, music, movies, and more. Known for its sleek design and impressive architecture.
- Sleek Design: Features a modern and stylish design with expansive windows.
- Variety of Media: Offers books, e-books, music, movies, and more for checkout.
- Community Space: Includes community meeting rooms and study spaces for patrons.
4. Westbank Library
Located in West Austin, this library offers a wide selection of books, movies, and technology resources. Known for its expansive outdoor reading area.
- Outdoor Reading Area: Features an extensive outdoor reading area with comfortable seating.
- Technology Resources: Offers computer access, Wi-Fi, and technology resources for patrons.
- Community Events: Hosts community events and programs for all ages.
5. BookWoman
A feminist bookstore in Austin offering books by and about women, as well as events and workshops focused on women's issues.
- Feminist Focus: Specializes in literature by and about women.
- Workshops and Events: Hosts workshops, author readings, and other events focused on feminism and women's issues.
- Community Space: Provides a welcoming space for discussion and learning about feminism and women's rights.
6. Barnes & Noble at The Domain
Located in the Domain shopping center, this Barnes & Noble offers a wide selection of books, magazines, and gifts. Known for its café and comfortable seating areas.
- Café: Features an in-store Starbucks café.
- Wide Selection: Offers a wide selection of books, magazines, and gifts.
- Comfortable Seating: Includes comfortable seating areas for reading and relaxation.
7. Whole Foods Market flagship store
More than just a grocery store, this location includes a bookstore offering cookbooks, wellness guides, and more.
- Grocery Store: Offers a full selection of groceries, including fresh produce and prepared foods.
- Bookstore: Includes a bookstore with a focus on cookbooks, wellness guides, and other related topics.
- Roof Deck: Features an expansive rooftop deck offering stunning views of downtown Austin.
8. South Congress Avenue Bookstores
Several independent bookstores located along South Congress Avenue, each with its unique selection and atmosphere.
- Unique Selection: Each store offers a unique selection of books, often with a focus on specific genres or topics.
- Local Atmosphere: Located in a vibrant and historic neighborhood, each store contributes to the local atmosphere.
- Community Events: Many stores host author readings, signings, and other community events.
9. Austin Public Library - Twin Oaks Branch
Located in East Austin, this library offers a diverse collection of books, technology resources, and programs for the community.
- Diverse Collection: Offers a diverse selection of books, reflecting the multicultural community it serves.
- Technology Resources: Provides computer access, Wi-Fi, and technology resources for patrons.
- Community Programs: Hosts community events and programs, including English language classes and after-school programs.
10. Austin History Center
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, this library focuses on local history and offers resources for researching Austin's past.
- Local History Focus: Specializes in Austin and Texas history resources.
- Archives: Includes extensive archives of photographs, maps, documents, and artifacts related to Austin's history.
- Public Access: Open to the public for research and learning about Austin's history.
11. Little Free Libraries of Austin
Community-built miniature libraries scattered throughout Austin, offering free books for anyone to take and leave.
- Free Books: Offers free books for anyone to take and leave.
- Community Building: Promotes community engagement by encouraging book sharing and interaction.
- Scattered Locations: Located throughout Austin, making it easy to find a Little Free Library nearby.
12. Austin Central Public Library - Northwest Branch
Located in North Austin, this library offers books, technology resources, and programs for the community.
- North Austin Location: Serves the north Austin community with a wide selection of books, technology resources, and programs.
- Technology Resources: Provides computer access, Wi-Fi, and technology resources for patrons.
- Community Programs: Hosts community events and programs, including after-school programs and adult education classes.
13. Austin Public Library - North Branch
Located in Northeast Austin, this library offers a diverse collection of books, technology resources, and programs for the community.
- Northeast Austin Location: Serves the northeast Austin community with a wide selection of books, technology resources, and programs.
- Diverse Collection: Offers a diverse selection of books, reflecting the multicultural community it serves.
- Community Programs: Hosts community events and programs, including English language classes and after-school programs.
14. Austin Public Library - Manor Branch
Located in the city of Manor, this library offers books, technology resources, and programs for the community.
- Manor Location: Serves the Manor community with a wide selection of books, technology resources, and programs.
- Technology Resources: Provides computer access, Wi-Fi, and technology resources for patrons.
- Community Programs: Hosts community events and programs, including after-school programs and adult education classes.
15. Austin Public Library - Windsor Park Branch
Located in Southeast Austin, this library offers books, technology resources, and programs for the community.
- Southeast Austin Location: Serves the southeast Austin community with a wide selection of books, technology resources, and programs.
- Technology Resources: Provides computer access, Wi-Fi, and technology resources for patrons.
- Community Programs: Hosts community events and programs, including after-school programs and adult education classes.