Best Bookstores & Libraries in Washington, United States

1. Elliott Bay Book Company

A iconic Seattle bookstore with three floors of new and used books, hosting author readings and events.

Unique Selection: Offers a diverse range of titles, including local authors and rare finds.
Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for Seattle's literary community.
Events and Readings: Regular author events, workshops, and readings make this a dynamic destination.

A Seattle-based organization that collects donated books to empower women, especially those in recovery or reentry.

Empowerment Focus: Provides books as tools for personal growth and empowerment.
Donation-Based: Supports women by accepting donated books to distribute for free.
Community Engagement: Encourages community involvement through book drives and volunteer opportunities.

A large independent bookstore in downtown Seattle with a vast selection of new, used, and rare books.

Huge Selection: One of the largest independent bookstores in the country.
City Guide Available: Offers free Seattle city guides for tourists.
Author Visits: Hosts author events, signings, and readings throughout the year.

A vast network of libraries at the University of Washington, offering access to millions of books and resources.

Research Library: One of the top 10 research libraries in North America.
Student Resource: Primarily serves students, faculty, and researchers at UW.
Public Access: Open to the public with certain restrictions.

Independent bookstore in Portland's charming Multnomah Village offering a wide range of books.

Curated Selection: Staff-curated recommendations make it easy to find your next read.
Community Events: Offers author events, book clubs, and writing workshops.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is passionate about books and eager to help customers find their perfect read.

A collection housed at the University of Washington Libraries, focusing on materials related to the Pacific Rim region.

Pacific Rim Focus: Collections and resources focused on the Pacific Rim region.
Research Library: One of the largest collections in the world on the Pacific Rim.
Public Access: Open to researchers, scholars, and students by appointment.

A specialty bookstore in Spokane devoted to mystery, fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres.

Specialized Genre Selection: Focuses on mystery, fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres.
Community Gathering Spot: Serves as a gathering place for fans of these genres.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is well-versed in the genres and can help customers find their next read.

A bookstore in Seattle specializing in spirituality, Eastern philosophy, and holistic health.

Spiritual Focus: Specializes in spirituality, Eastern philosophy, and holistic health.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is knowledgeable about the topics and can offer recommendations.
Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for those interested in spirituality and holistic health.

A beautiful central library in downtown Seattle offering books, resources, and services.

Central Location: Located in the heart of downtown Seattle.
Community Resource: Offers a variety of resources, including computer access and free Wi-Fi.
Architectural Wonder: Features an iconic architectural design by Rem Koolhaas.

A university library in Portland offering a vast collection of books and resources for students, faculty, and researchers.

Research Library: Serves as a research resource for PSU students, faculty, and researchers.
Public Access: Open to the public with certain restrictions.
Resource Center: Offers a wealth of resources, including databases and research materials.

A used bookstore in Seattle with a large collection of books at discounted prices.

A specialty bookstore in Bainbridge Island focusing on regional and maritime literature.

Regional Focus: Specializes in regional and maritime literature.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is knowledgeable about the region and can offer recommendations.
Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for those interested in regional literature.

A central library in Spokane offering books, resources, and services for the community.

Central Location: Located in downtown Spokane.
Community Resource: Offers a variety of resources, including computer access and free Wi-Fi.
Architectural Interest: Features an architecturally significant building design.

A bookstore in Portland focusing on books that inspire social change and positive impact.

Focus on Social Change: Specializes in books that promote social change and positive impact.
Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for those interested in making a difference.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is knowledgeable about the topics and can offer recommendations.

A bookstore on Bainbridge Island offering a wide selection of books in a cozy, community atmosphere.

Community Atmosphere: Creates a warm and welcoming community atmosphere.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is knowledgeable about books and can offer recommendations.
Special Events: Regular author events, book clubs, and community gatherings.