
Best Bookstores & Libraries in Richmond, Virginia, United States
1. Library of Virginia
State's official library featuring vast resources on Virginia history and culture.
- Rare Books Collection: Houses one of the largest collections of rare books in the U.S.
- Government Documents: Maintains a comprehensive collection of government publications dating back to 1789.
- Virginia Room: A research library dedicated exclusively to the study of Virginia history and culture.
2. James River Books
Independent bookstore offering a wide range of new books, with a focus on local authors.
- Community Events: Hosts author readings, writing workshops, and other community events.
- Book Recommendations: Knowledgeable staff provides personalized book recommendations.
- Locally Sourced Products: Offers a selection of locally-made products and gifts.
3. Chop Suey Books
Longstanding bookstore specializing in used, rare, and out-of-print books.
- Used Book Selection: Features an extensive collection of used books at affordable prices.
- Rare Book Collection: Has a special section dedicated to rare and collectible books.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are passionate about reading and can help you find the perfect book.
4. The Book People
Bookstore featuring a wide variety of books, as well as gifts and stationery.
- Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a welcoming, cozy atmosphere for book lovers.
- Book Recommendations: Offers personalized book recommendations based on your preferences.
- Special Events: Hosts author readings, book clubs, and other literary events.
5. Library of Virginia Foundation Branch Libraries
Branch libraries offering resources on various subjects, including genealogy and local history.
- Genealogy Research: Assists with researching family history and genealogy.
- Local History Resources: Provides extensive resources on Richmond's history and culture.
- Community Meetings: Hosts community meetings, workshops, and other events.
6. Bound by Books
Bookstore focusing on literature, art, and culture, with a curated selection of books.
- Curated Selection: Features a carefully selected collection of high-quality books.
- Art Exhibits: Hosts rotating art exhibits featuring local and international artists.
- Author Events: Regularly hosts author readings, book signings, and other literary events.
7. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Cabell Library
University library offering a vast collection of resources for students and researchers.
- Research Resources: Provides access to research databases, scholarly articles, and other academic resources.
- Study Spaces: Offers numerous study spaces, including quiet rooms, group study areas, and computer labs.
- Interlibrary Loan Services: Provides interlibrary loan services for materials not available in their collection.
8. Richmond Public Library (Main Branch)
Central library offering a wide range of resources, including books, magazines, and digital media.
- Digital Media Resources: Provides access to e-books, audiobooks, music, and digital movies.
- Language Learning Resources: Offers language learning resources for patrons interested in learning a new language.
- Children's Programming: Hosts children's programs, including storytimes, craft activities, and summer reading clubs.
9. Richmond Public Library (Chamberlayne Branch)
Branch library focusing on adult education, job search resources, and computer literacy.
- Adult Education Resources: Provides resources for adults interested in learning new skills or furthering their education.
- Job Search Resources: Offers job search assistance, including resume help and access to employment databases.
- Computer Literacy Classes: Provides computer literacy classes for patrons of all skill levels.
10. Richmond Public Library (Southside Branch)
Branch library offering a diverse collection of books, as well as programs for children and adults.
- Diverse Collection: Features a wide variety of books in multiple languages and genres.
- Children's Programming: Hosts children's programs, including storytimes, craft activities, and summer reading clubs.
- Adult Literacy Resources: Offers adult literacy resources for those learning to read or improve their reading skills.
11. Richmond Public Library (Carver Branch)
Branch library serving the East End neighborhood with a focus on adult learning and community engagement.
- Adult Learning Resources: Provides resources for adults interested in learning new skills or furthering their education.
- Community Engagement: Offers community engagement programs, including workshops and events focused on health, finance, and other topics.
- Computer Access: Provides computer access for patrons who need it.
12. Richmond Public Library (Ginter Park Branch)
Branch library offering a diverse collection of books, as well as programs for children and adults.
- Diverse Collection: Features a wide variety of books in multiple languages and genres.
- Children's Programming: Hosts children's programs, including storytimes, craft activities, and summer reading clubs.
- Computer Access: Provides computer access for patrons who need it.
13. Richmond Public Library (Museum District Branch)
Branch library serving the Museum District neighborhood with a focus on visual and performing arts.
- Art Resources: Offers resources for visual and performing artists, including art supplies and access to art databases.
- Community Engagement: Hosts community engagement programs, including workshops and events focused on arts and culture.
- Children's Programming: Provides children's programming, including storytimes, craft activities, and summer reading clubs.
14. Richmond Public Library (Highland Springs Branch)
Branch library offering a diverse collection of books, as well as programs for children and adults.
- Diverse Collection: Features a wide variety of books in multiple languages and genres.
- Children's Programming: Hosts children's programs, including storytimes, craft activities, and summer reading clubs.
- Adult Learning Resources: Offers adult learning resources for those interested in learning new skills or furthering their education.
15. Richmond Public Library (Tuckahoe Branch)
Branch library offering a diverse collection of books, as well as programs for children and adults.
- Diverse Collection: Features a wide variety of books in multiple languages and genres.
- Children's Programming: Hosts children's programs, including storytimes, craft activities, and summer reading clubs.
- Computer Access: Provides computer access for patrons who need it.