There’s nothing better than curling up with a good book and a tasty drink. I love walking into a bookstore and smelling the printed pages, scouring the budget-friendly shelves for my next read, and soaking in the decor that is always beautiful and unique.
Locally owned bookshops have something big box stores don’t: cozy, welcoming, relaxed vibes that make you feel right at home. I’ve found a few that feel like a warm hug as soon as you walk in.
Books on the Bosque
Location: 6261 Riverside Plaza Ln NW, Suite A-2
Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 am – 7 pm, Sunday 9 am – 5 pm
What’s Unique: Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, Books on the Bosque has a small cafe with food and drinks and cozy little reading areas throughout.
They host regular book clubs, author readings, book release parties, mocktail meetups, and other events. Check out their events page for more info.
There is a local authors section, and they also sell jewelry, T-shirts, tote bags, notebooks, and so much more.
Enchanted Books
Location: Inside the Block, 7805 Enchanted Hills Blvd NE #16
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 12 – 8 pm, close at 7 pm during the winter
What’s Unique: Don’t sleep on this indie bookstore; they’re dedicated to indie and local authors. They have so many genres to choose from, as well as hats, mugs, and shirts.
Bookworks
Location: 4022 Rio Grande Blvd NW
Hours: Everyday 10am – 6 pm
What’s Unique: Bookworks has been an Albuquerque staple since the ’80s. They highlight local authors and books on the Southwest. They host book clubs, offer complimentary gift wrapping with purchase, and they also sell zines and records, and so much more.
Along with author events, they host teach-ins, where you can get more involved with your community, as well as story times every Friday at 10:30 am for younger kids.
Slice of Life Anime and Manga
Location: 11200 Montgomery Blvd NE # 6
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11 am – 7 pm, Sunday 11 am – 5 pm
What’s Unique: If you or your kids are anime lovers (one of my twins is a huge fan!), this is the place for you. Not only are there books, but there are figurines, stationery, trading cards, and so much more. Check out their Instagram for more information about events and item restocks.
If your anime enthusiast is looking for a new series, check out some of my daughter Jade’s favorite books.
Vellum & Vine
Location: Uptown area, the owner will reveal the exact location on their Instagram page
Hours: TBD
What’s Unique: Not yet open, this woman-owned bookstore will focus on the romance genre. This will be Albuquerque’s first romance bookstore and cafe, and I am beyond excited for it and eagerly awaiting its opening. Their website promises a lot to look forward to: collectables and special editions, bookish gifts, and book clubs and other community events.
Local bookstores are more than places to find the next title to add to your TBR list; they’re places where we can enjoy a quiet moment to ourselves while we read or get involved with our communities.
If you’re looking for ways to help your kids develop a love of reading and set them up for success, check out this free summer reading program.
