7 local bookshops in Richmond, VA

Chop Suey Books in Richmond

Chop Suey Books has two levels, with new and old titles on its shelves.

Independent Bookstore Day is Sat., April 30, but seven of Richmond’s literary locales are celebrating all month with a special passport program.

Biblophiles best believe this printable page will lead them to the locally-owned shops to get their story stamps.

We’ll help you map out your destinations…

Fountain Bookstore storefront

Window shopping at Fountain Bookstore could lead you to a new book... Or a new concert. | Photo by @RICtoday

Fountain Bookstore

1312 E. Cary St. | Open Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m, Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This shop is the oldest of the indie spots in Richmond, setting up in Shockoe back in 1978. It hosts more author programming and discussions than any other shop in VA. Looking for some book besties? Check out Fountain’s virtual book clubs.

Chop Suey Books in Richmond

Chop Suey Books has two levels, with new and old titles on its shelves.

Chop Suey Books |

2913 W. Cary St. | Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m.

Chop Suey has called Carytown home for two decades, and is now under new management. It carries new and used books, along with a slew of graphic novels + manga. Pro tip: Check out the top floor for more perusing + keep your eye out for Wonton, the bookstore cat.

The Book People store in Richmond.

The Book People is nestled in the West End, and has served customers digitally from around the world.

Book People |

536 Granite Ave. | Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Book People features new and used literature from romance to mysteries to cookbooks. Pro tip: Nonfiction lovers can find local and state historical records dating back to the 1700s in the Virginia section.

bbgb Books on W. Cary Street, Richmond.

bbgb even has old favorites like The Hungry Caterpillar and Rainbow Fish.

bbbg |

3003 W. Cary St. | Open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m.

This shop is the most kid-centric spot on the list. bbbg hosts author events in store and at local elementary schools. Bonus: You can always donate children’s books for all reading levels.

Logo for RVA Book Bar

The RVA Book Bar is just down from Soul Taco on the way to Shockoe. | Photo via @rvabookbar

The Book Bar |

1311 E. Main St. | Open Wed.-Fri. 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

This newest addition for Richmond readers opened in February and centers BIPOC authors and brands. Visitors can treat themselves at the in-store wine bar while shopping, or sign up for a monthly book subscription box.

Storefront of The Little Bookshop in Midlothian

The Little Bookshop even does its own staff book reviews in-store.

The Little Bookshop |

1318 Sycamore Sq. | Open Wed.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Located in Midlothian, The Little Bookshop hosts local author events and book launches for all ages and interests. It also sells homemade cards + gifts like journals, toys + accessories.

Midlothian Book Exchange

Midlothian Book Exchange is next to Diamond Billiards.

Midlothian Book Exchange |

13198 Midlothian Tpke. | Open Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The largest of these independent bookstores, the Midlothian Book Exchange has collected around 175,000 books since 1986. Visitors can trade in something from their shelves to use as store credit.

Book of bookstore stamps

Get five out of seven bookstore stamps, and you can grab a free tote bag at any participating shop.

What’s at the end of this chapter? If at least five of seven stamps are collected, participants get a free tote bag to grab on Independent Bookstore Day at any participating location.

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