Best Bookstores & Libraries in Houston, Texas, United States

Houston, United States, Houston, Culture & Entertainment, Best Bookstores & Libraries

Best Bookstores & Libraries in Houston, Texas, United States

1. Murder By the Book

Independent mystery bookstore with events and signings by authors.
  • Extensive Mystery Selection: One of the largest selections of mystery, crime, and suspense novels in the city.
  • Author Events: Regular author signings, readings, and discussions make this a must-visit for mystery fans.
  • Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are well-versed in the genre and can help you find your next favorite read.

2. Blue Willow Bookshop

Offers a wide range of books for all ages, with an emphasis on literature and children's books.
  • Comfortable Reading Space: Cozy seating areas perfect for spending time with a good book.
  • Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members can provide personalized recommendations based on your reading preferences.
  • Community Events: Frequent author events, storytimes for kids, and other community gatherings.

3. Magical Doorway Bookshop

Whimsical bookstore offering new and used books, plus tea and snacks.
  • Unique Ambiance: A fairytale-like setting with enchanting decor and a magical atmosphere.
  • Tea & Snacks: Enjoy tea, coffee, and light snacks while browsing the bookshelves.
  • Selection of Used Books: A large selection of used books at affordable prices.

4. Houston Public Library - Central Branch

Central library featuring vast resources, technology access, and community programs.
  • Extensive Resource Center: Access to books, periodicals, online resources, and more.
  • Technology Access: Computers, Wi-Fi, printing services, and technology classes available.
  • Community Programs: Programs for adults, teens, and children, including storytimes, workshops, and lectures.

5. Inprint House

Nonprofit literary arts organization with a bookstore and writing workshops.
  • Writing Workshops: Offers classes and workshops for writers of all levels.
  • Support for Local Authors: Supports local authors by publishing their works and hosting events.
  • Community Engagement: Frequent author readings, book discussions, and literary events.

6. Brazos Bookstore

Independent bookstore with a focus on literature, politics, and current affairs.
  • Literary Events: Regular author events, book signings, and literary discussions.
  • Extensive Selection of Literature: One of the largest selections of literature and current affairs books in Houston.
  • Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are well-informed about the literary scene and can provide recommendations.

7. Library Bar & Lounge

Bookstore with a bar serving craft cocktails and small bites.
  • Unique Atmosphere: A lively, book-themed bar environment perfect for relaxing or socializing.
  • Extensive Book Selection: A wide variety of books available to purchase.
  • Craft Cocktails & Small Bites: Enjoy creative cocktails, small plates, and brunch on weekends.

8. Museum of Printing History

Historic museum showcasing the history of printing and housing a working print shop.
  • Printing Exhibits: Exhibits displaying the evolution of printing technology.
  • Working Print Shop: Watch the print shop in action and learn about traditional printing methods.
  • Bookstore: A small bookstore offering books on printing history, typography, and design.

9. Rice University's Fondren Library

University library with extensive resources, including rare books and special collections.
  • Special Collections: Access to rare books, archives, manuscripts, and other unique materials.
  • Technology Access: State-of-the-art technology resources for research and study.
  • Research Assistance: Research assistance from librarians and access to research databases.

10. University of Houston's M.D. Anderson Library

Large university library offering extensive resources for students and researchers.
  • Extensive Resource Center: Access to books, periodicals, online resources, and more.
  • Technology Access: Computers, Wi-Fi, printing services, and technology classes available.
  • Research Assistance: Research assistance from librarians and access to research databases.

11. The Menil Collection Library

Library located within a renowned art museum, featuring resources on art and culture.
  • Art-Focused Resources: Resources related to art history, contemporary art, and visual culture.
  • Access to The Menil Collection: Free admission to the museum and access to its permanent collection.
  • Quiet Study Areas: Peaceful study areas perfect for focused research or quiet reading.

12. Houston Public Library - Julia Ideson Building

Historic library with a stunning Beaux-Arts facade and extensive resources.
  • Historic Architecture: Stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and interior design.
  • Extensive Resource Center: Access to books, periodicals, online resources, and more.
  • Community Programs: Programs for adults, teens, and children, including storytimes, workshops, and lectures.

13. The Houston Metropolitan Research Center

Historical research center with resources on Houston and Texas history.
  • Houston & Texas History Resources: Resources on local, state, and regional history, including maps, photographs, and manuscripts.
  • Research Assistance: Research assistance from knowledgeable staff members.
  • Access to Online Resources: Access to online resources and databases for research.

14. The Woodson Research Center at Rice University

Research center focusing on African American, women's, and Texas history.
  • African American & Women's History Resources: Resources on African American history, women's history, and Texas history.
  • Research Assistance: Research assistance from knowledgeable staff members.
  • Access to Online Resources: Access to online resources and databases for research.

15. The University of St. Thomas Library

University library offering extensive resources and a quiet study environment.
  • Extensive Resource Center: Access to books, periodicals, online resources, and more.
  • Quiet Study Areas: Peaceful study areas perfect for focused research or quiet reading.
  • Technology Access: Computers, Wi-Fi, printing services, and technology classes available.