Best Bookstores & Libraries in Brooklyn, United States

1. Green-Wood Cemetery Library

A unique library hidden within Brooklyn's historic Green-Wood Cemetery, offering an extensive collection of books and a serene atmosphere.

Historical Setting: Library is nestled in a historical cemetery, providing a unique and tranquil environment.
Rare Collection: Holds a rare collection of books on local history, art, and literature.
Free Access: Access to the library is free for visitors exploring the cemetery.

The grand central library of Brooklyn, featuring over a million volumes and various programs for all ages.

Central Location: Located in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, making it easily accessible.
Community Programs: Offers numerous programs and workshops for community engagement.
Architectural Beauty: Beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture, designed by Charles Follen McKim in the early 20th century.

A charming bookstore known for its vast selection of new and used books, as well as events and a café.

Selection of Used Books: Boasts an extensive collection of used books alongside new titles.
Café & Events Space: Features a café and hosts author readings, book clubs, and other events.
Community-Focused: Serves the local community by offering book recommendations and event opportunities.

A modern venue that combines a bookstore, café, and event space within a stunning waterfront location.

Waterfront Location: Situated on the DUMBO waterfront with breathtaking views of Manhattan.
Cultural Events: Hosts a variety of cultural events, such as book signings, author talks, and art exhibitions.
Community Gathering Place: Serves as a popular gathering place for Brooklyn's creative community.

A Black-owned bookstore and café that focuses on works by authors of color and promoting literary discussions.

Books by Authors of Color: Features an extensive collection of books by authors of color.
Community Space: Serves as a community space for discussions, book clubs, and literary events focused on Black literature.
Café & Coffee Shop: Offers a café and coffee shop to enjoy while reading or attending events.

A welcoming bookstore with a curated selection of books, author events, and literary discussions.

Curated Selection: Features a carefully selected collection of books, handpicked by knowledgeable staff.
Author Events: Hosts author events, book signings, and readings throughout the year.
Local Focus: Supports local authors and focuses on works that reflect Brooklyn's vibrant literary scene.

A spacious Barnes & Noble location with a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline from its outdoor seating area.

Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline from its outdoor seating area.
Spacious Location: Features a spacious layout with plenty of room to browse and enjoy books.
Café & Events Space: Includes a café and hosts events such as author readings, signings, and workshops.

A cozy bookstore focused on fostering a sense of community through books, events, and literary discussions.

Community-Focused: Serves as a gathering place for the local community to share ideas and discuss books.
Curated Selection: Features a carefully curated selection of books, recommended by knowledgeable staff.
Author Events: Hosts author events, book signings, and readings throughout the year.

A small neighborhood library offering a variety of books, free Wi-Fi, and access to computers.

Neighborhood Library: Serves the local community by providing easy access to resources and books.
Free Access: Offers free Wi-Fi, computers, and books for public use.
Small & Intimate: Has a small, intimate setting that fosters a sense of community among patrons.

An independent bookstore focused on creating an engaging and welcoming environment for readers.

Independent Bookstore: Serves the local community by supporting independent publishing.
Community Engagement: Engages the local community through author events, book clubs, and literary discussions.
Curated Selection: Features a carefully curated selection of books recommended by knowledgeable staff.

A historic library located within Prospect Park, offering a unique setting for reading and relaxation.

Historic Setting: Located in a historic building within Prospect Park, providing a serene atmosphere.
Community Programs: Offers a variety of programs for all ages, such as book clubs and literary discussions.
Free Access: Access to the library is free for visitors exploring Prospect Park.

A library within the Brooklyn Public Library system, offering resources, programs, and a children's center.

Children's Center: Features a dedicated space for children with books, toys, and activities.
Resources & Programs: Offers resources, programs, and workshops for all ages, including technology classes and language learning resources.
Community Hub: Serves as a community hub for residents to access resources and engage in literary discussions.

A bookstore that supports local authors and offers a cozy space for reading, events, and literary discussions.

Local Author Support: Supports local authors by featuring their works in the store.
Community Engagement: Engages the local community through author events, book clubs, and literary discussions.
Cozy Space: Provides a cozy space for reading and enjoying books with friends or family.

A research center dedicated to materials related to Brooklyn's history, culture, and contemporary life.

Research Center: Serves as a research center for those interested in learning about Brooklyn's history.
Unique Collections: Features unique collections of books, photographs, and other materials related to Brooklyn.
Free Access: Access to the research center is free for visitors interested in exploring Brooklyn's history.

A modern library offering books, computers, programs, and community resources within a historic armory building.

Historic Setting: Located in a historic armory building, providing an interesting and unique setting.
Resources & Programs: Offers resources, programs, and workshops for all ages, including technology classes and language learning resources.
Community Hub: Serves as a community hub for residents to access resources and engage in literary discussions.