The hectic work day is winding down, and the last task on your list has been checked off. There’s a beautiful sunset out of your window, and you’ve just sat down in your favorite chair with a beverage and a brand-new book and the one you’ve been dying to read. It’s a familiar feeling—a hard-earned moment of peace and rest. The only thing that could make that feeling even better? Knowing that you supported a local business by purchasing your book at your favorite independent bookstore.
No matter where you live in our beautiful state, there’s bound to be an independent bookstore nearby. Shopping at an indie bookstore supports your local economy, fosters community, and provides personalized service and curated book recommendations. Shop our list of Alabama’s independent bookstores–you may just find your new favorite.
NORTH ALABAMA
The Snail on the Wall
Huntsville
In Virginia Woolf’s 1917 story “The Mark on the Wall,” a woman sees a mysterious spot and lets her imagination run wild with possibilities of what it could be while simultaneously pondering life’s biggest questions. Such is how this Huntsville bookstore earned its name, and why the owners pride themselves on selecting books that inspire, educate, and entertain. Located in the Five Points area of the Rocket City, The Snail on the Wall prides itself on offering local book delivery and shipping nationwide. They also offer many local events such as book launches, storytimes, and yearly reading challenges.
Shades of Pemberley
Albertville
Shades of Pemberley Bookstore believes, above all, in the magic of books. Since 2017, this local gem has been Albertville’s trusted source for book lovers, with fantastic customer service and a vast selection of both new and used books. The family-owned independent bookstore fills its shelves with a diverse range of genres, ranging from romance and thrillers to health and wellness and biography. They also offer a trade-in program for gently used books to earn store credit, ensuring your next read is well within reach.
CENTRAL ALABAMA
Thank You Books
Birmingham
Thank You Books opened its doors to Birmingham readers in December of 2019 and describes themselves as “woman-owned, community-minded, and gratitude-driven.” The shop provides an impressive selection of reads in a variety of genres, from poetry and classic literature to theology and fantasy. They regularly host author events and children’s storytimes alongside monthly book clubs. Also worth mentioning is their incredible, locally-printed merchandise (the cozy Thank You For Reading sweatshirt is a must).
Bookmarked Paperie
Trussville
Bookmarked Paperie owners Beth Seeley and Dana Weimer believe that books are truly a foundation for a better life. The mother-daughter duo has curated a unique and thoughtful space that offers the newest bestsellers alongside an assortment of stationary, paper goods, puzzles, and other unique gifts. They pride themselves on fostering community through a host of events, including book clubs, wine and book pairings, and art classes.
Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers
Auburn
Located at the center of the Auburn University campus, Auburn Oil Co. features a specially curated selection of books, cards, and gifts. You can also grab a latte at their literary-themed café, featuring signature drinks named after local authors like Rick Bragg and Zelda Fitzgerald. They offer a variety of book clubs for every type of reader, from sci-fi and fantasy to the women-centered femininomenon group. You’ll also find plenty of handwritten review cards along the shelves, where you can browse and connect with staff recommendations.
Ernest & Hadley Booksellers
Tuscaloosa
Named after literary giant Ernest Hemingway and his wife Hadley Richardson, Ernest & Hadley Booksellers offers new, used, and rare books in downtown Tuscaloosa. The owners actively seek the input of community members who share their love of reading in order to curate the best selection of regional, national, and international reads. They regularly host author signings and poetry readings, but additionally host the popular Silent Book Club, a bring-your-own-book event that allows avid readers to meet like-minded individuals in the community.
SOUTH ALABAMA
Downtown Books
Dothan
Downtown Books is excited to bring a locally owned bookstore to Dothan and, since opening its doors in 2021, has established itself as a valuable piece of the community. They warmly welcome conversations and book talks around a variety of reads, from memoirs to the latest best-selling fiction. Additionally, they offer an annual membership with benefits such as priority event notifications and a discount on all purchases. The friendly space provides a unique selection of curated books from local, regional, and international sources.
Page and Palette
Fairhope
Open since 1968, Page and Palette is a fixture of the charming downtown Fairhope. The family-owned independent bookstore carries a wide selection of reads, from up-and-coming names to your classic favorites–and the staff is always happy to offer their personal recommendations. “We’re a story with a whole cast of characters,” Page and Palette shares. “Millions are in the books we sell, but look more closely. You’ll find them in our aisles, behind the register, and camped out in the café. You see, there’s no need to create some mystique when you’ve been around this long. It’s here.”
Courtesy of SoulGrown
