New York’s Most Beautiful Libraries & Bookstores

So it’s no wonder the libraries and bookstores scattered around the island are so magical. From the breathtaking, white marble halls of the New York Public Library Stephen Schwarzman building to the ornate French thrills of the Albertine Bookstore, these literary hubs are astonishing.

So, if you identify as a proud bookworm, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s The Journiest’s official list of the most incredible libraries and bookstores in New York City. So grab your reading glasses and favorite bookmark, and let’s get to it!

Albertine Book Store

The Albertine is not only one of the most gorgeous bookstores in New York, but it’s also one of the most gorgeous buildings on this spinning planet. Bold statement? Maybe. But once you see it with your own eyes, you’ll know we’re not exaggerating here.

Nestled in the heart of the Paine Whitney mansion just off Central Park, this French-themed bookshop offers an abundance of Parisian literature. (If you were snoozing back in French class, don’t fret — most books on The Albertine’s shelves have been translated into English.)

Accompanying the dreamy wall art that replicates the night sky are thousands upon thousands of books by the most renowned French artists throughout history. From Simone De Beuvior to Victor Hugo, this bookshop has got it all.

If you want to feel like the classiest person in New York City, take some time out of your day to explore the wonders of Albertine. Once you step foot inside and immerse yourself in the ornate French decor and an atmosphere of literary excellence, you’ll feel richer than a thousand kings.

The Strand

If you want a bookstore that’s a little less fancy (yet still classic,) you can never go wrong with The Strand. Highly praised as one of the most iconic bookstores in New York history, this place is home to over 2.5 million books. (Now that’s a lot of books!)

The Strand is so unique that David Bowie himself crowned it one of his “favorite places in New York.” Not too shabby, eh?

For all you Rom-Com fans out there, the bulk of the Netflix series Dash & Lily takes place in The Strand. It was also featured on Sex and the City, as well as Peacock’s recent hit, Girls5Eva. Clearly, a Manhattan staple.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect place for bookworms to unite, where the atmosphere is eternally buzzing with excitement, look no further than The Strand.

Plus, they recently added a cafe to the bookstore, so you can sip your iced coffee while skimming the back of the latest Leigh Bardugo tome. What an ideal day!

The New York Public Library

The main branch of The New York Public Library is an exquisite marble building that stretches for two city blocks on Fifth Avenue. At the front of the library, you’ll find two lion statues on each side of the grand entrance. Named Patience and Fortitude, they were placed on their pedestals in the days before the library’s opening in 1911. During the Great Depression, Mayor Fiorello La Guardia officially gave them their names to remind patrons that they had the strength to survive this tough time in American history.

Inside, patrons will be dazzled by the marble-white surroundings of the New York Public Library, as well as the gorgeous, fresco-painted ceilings and endless displays of literature. Located on the third floor, The Rose Reading Room is specifically designed to drown out all the noisy sounds of Manhattan so you can finally concentrate on your reading and research. If you ever want to get away from all the noise of the bustling city, be sure to check out the NYPL.

Books Are Magic

If you’re hoping to escape the buzziness of Manhattan and want something a bit quieter and more low-key, hop on over to Brooklyn Heights so you can check out Books Are Magic. This intimate little bookstore is filled with the most forward-thinking selection of books you can find.

Because Books Are Magic has such a cozy and intimate vibe to it, you’re likely to strike up a convo with plenty of like-minded bookworms and gush over the latest Haruki Murakami novel. Sounds like a dream, right?

Plus, renowned authors are constantly hosting events at Books Are Magic, so what do you have to lose by stepping right inside?

McNally Jackson Books SoHo

McNally Jackson Books has a vast selection of books. When I walked in, I went from casual SoHo Girl to Belle from Beauty and the Beast. From Gabriel Garcia Marquez to Stephen King, I fell in love with all the authors’ names.

Just when I thought I’d seen it all, I discovered a whole downstairs basement filled with even more books! It was like walking right into heaven. With the beautiful display of novels and the incredibly friendly atmosphere, I was tempted to pack up all my stuff and move in.

Barnes and Noble, Union Square

Now, before you start, I know what you’re thinking. Barnes and Noble? Seriously? How can the biggest book chain in the world be in any way unique or beautiful?

But something about the Union Square Barnes and Noble is so incredibly warm and inviting. It boasts four massive floors, as well as a bustling cafe with the best selection of foods you could ever imagine. Basically, it’s Starbucks on steroids with its endless selection of baked goods, drinks, and lunch options.

The cafe is wraparound-gorgeous with literary murals of famous authors and book covers. Overlooking Union Square, what more could you ask for?

Housing Works Bookstore

The Housing Works Bookstore is so lush that it also serves as a wedding venue. With its dangling fairy lights, warm wooden shelves, and cozy atmosphere, fellow bookworms are sure to feel right at home.

Does this place look familiar, but you just can’t put your finger on it?

Most of the stock is donated, so the profits go towards meaningful causes, such as fighting homelessness and putting an end to the AIDS epidemic.

Well, that’s the ticket! Which New York bookstore/library will you be checking out next?