Celebrate 50+ New Jersey Independent Bookstores on Indie Bookstore Day April 26!

As Indie Bookstore Day on April 26 nears, think about the cozy feel of picking out a book or gift from a small local bookstore in New Jersey. These stores offer more than just a place to buy things—they give you a special experience, a personal touch, and a way to connect with your community.

When you shop at a local independent bookstore, you’re not just getting a great gift, you’re also helping to support the many small businesses that make New Jersey unique and interesting.

For events throughout the year, be sure to check out our Event Guide. For more New Jersey adventures, be sure to follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.

A Guide to New Jersey Independent Book Stores:

Asbury Book Cooperative, Asbury Park
Asbury Park’s Community-Run, Independent Bookstore features book clubs, books by local authors, and serves as a literary hub and community space.
644A Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ

Wolfe & Kron Books, Asbury Park
Wolfe & Kron Books is an independent bookstore located in Asbury Park, New Jersey. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of new and used books across a variety of genres, with a focus on literary fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and niche titles. In addition to its book collection, Wolfe & Kron Books hosts author events, readings, and community gatherings in a welcoming, book-loving space.
808 1/2 5th Ave, Asbury Park, NJ

Princeton Antiques & Book Service, Atlantic City
Princeton Antiques is a collector and search service for old, rare, leather-bound, and out-of-print books for sale. With 250,000 titles in stock, it is likely that they have the book you need in stock at the time YOU need it.
2917 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ

Little Boho Bookshop, Bayonne
Open since 2017, this independent bookstore sits in the downtown of Bayonne. According to owner Sandra Dear, “The Little Boho Bookshop is not your traditional Indie store, it’s a cozy getaway spot to find your happy place”
164A Broadway, Bayonne, NJ

LBI Bookswap, Beach Haven
The LBI Bookswap features over 10,000 new and used books for adults, young adults, middle grade, and children. They also frequently hosts well-known authors.
325 9th Street, Beach Haven, NJ

A Paperback Exchange, Belmar
The Paperback Exchange was established by Isabelle Carlo in 1977. This unique bookshop allows customers to bring in books and receive trade-in credit. They carry used fiction and non-fiction books, every genre from romance to horror, spirituality to science, history to science fiction. They also carry some collectible books and new books by local authors. Their inventory is constantly changing, so if they don’t have it today they may have it tomorrow.
703 ½ 9th Avenue, Belmar, NJ

Belvidere Books & Cafe, Belvidere
Belvidere Books and cafe is owned and operated by John and Court, who live in the heart of Belvidere with their two children. They proudly serve Homestead Roasters and Talia’s Bakery.
415 Front Street, Belvidere, NJ

The Bookworm, Bernardsville
Support a local bookstore in the heart of Bernardsville! They offer everything from the latest books to old favorites. Come in and browse their selection of books, unique greeting cards, journals, puzzles, book-related apparel, stuffed animals… and more!
99 Claremont Road, Bernardsville, NJ

Ren’s Coffeehouse & Books, Blackwood
Ren’s is a cozy coffeehouse and bookstore located in New Jersey. The café features coffee made with beans sourced from a local roaster, offering hand-crafted drinks alongside a selection of pastries and cookies. The bookstore carries a mix of new and used books, titles from local and children’s authors, bookish gifts, and handmade items from local artists. Ren’s also hosts community events including open mic nights, reading times for kids, and game nights, providing a welcoming space for visitors to relax, connect, and create.
26 N Black Horse Pike, Blackwood, NJ

Gingerbread Bookshop, Boonton
Gingerbread Bookshop is a whimsical independent bookstore located in the charming town of Boonton, NJ. Painted in a deep blue-gray hue in an early-Colonial style building, the Gingerbread bills itself as a “secondhand bookshop for all ages.” Open on weekends, the store at 410 Main St. accepts donations on Fridays. Bring in five books and you get a gingerbread cookie.
410 Main St, Boonton, NJ

Old Bookshop of Bordentown, Bordentown
The Old Book Shop of Bordentown is a general used, out-of-print and antiquarian bookshop. Browse approximately 10,000 hardcover titles which feature strong sections on New Jerseyana, American history and military, baseball, historical mysteries, children’s book, and more.
200 Farnsworth Ave, Bordentown, NJ

Kiss & Tale A Romance Bookshop, Collingswood
Kiss & Tale is a romance-focused bookshop dedicated to celebrating love stories and supporting local authors. The store features an extensive selection of romance novels, ensuring that romance is always the central theme. They actively promote local authors from the South Jersey and Philadelphia area, offering consignment opportunities and curated selections. Kiss & Tale also hosts community events and book clubs, fostering a welcoming environment for romance enthusiasts
688 Haddon Ave Floor 1, Collingswood, NJ

The Book Garden, Cream Ridge
Located in rural Cream Ridge in Central Jersey, The Book Garden is a must-see for all book lovers. Thousands of square feet filled with books of all sorts.Out of print and rare books, as well as back-issue comic books and magazines can also be found here.
868 Monmouth Road, Cream Ridge, NJ

Book Barn, Denville
The Book Barn is a non-profit, 100% volunteer run secondhand bookstore that sells books, media, music and more at a fraction of retail prices. All of their proceeds go to local charities. Nestled in the heart of Morris County in an old dairy barn that’s been in existence for over 100 years, book lovers will be treated to endless books in all genres including (but not limited to) fiction, drama, comedy, sci-fi, history, cooking, gardening and so much more.
Everything sold at the Barn has been donated.
18 Pocono Rd, Denville, NJ

River Road Books, Fair Haven
River Road Books opened in 2006 with the goal of bringing a community of readers together. Author Events bring favorite writers, poets, and artists to you.
759 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ

Frenchtown Bookshop, Frenchtown
Frenchtown Bookshop is a family-owned independent bookstore. The bookshop is more than just a place to buy books—it’s a cultural hub where the community gathers for engaging events like author readings, book clubs, and writing workshops. Its inviting space, complete with comfortable reading nooks, encourages visitors to linger and explore new literary worlds.
28 Bridge St, Frenchtown, NJ

The Curious Reader, Glen Rock
The Curious Reader is a unique children’s bookstore that offers a lively reading environment with a wide selection and knowledgeable staff. They are the largest independent children’s bookstore in the community and look forward to growing with the contributions of each new reader who walks through their doors
229 Rock Rd. Glen Rock, NJ

Ida’s Bookshop, Haddon Twp
Named for heroine, Ida B. Wells celebrating women authors, artists, & activists.
51 Haddon Ave, Haddon Township, NJ

Inkwood Books, Haddonfield
Inkwood Books is the area’s only full-service Independent Bookstore in downtown Haddonfield. Shop books, gifts, and signed books at this adorable community hub.
106 Kings Hwy E, Haddonfield, NJ

Little City Books, Hoboken
Little City Books is a beloved independent bookstore nestled in the heart of Hoboken, New Jersey. Known for its carefully curated selection of books for readers of all ages, the shop also hosts a variety of author events, book clubs, and community gatherings. Warm, welcoming, and filled with charm, Little City Books is a local favorite for book lovers and visitors alike.
100 Bloomfield St, Hoboken, NJ

The Bear and the Books, Hopewell
The Bear and the Books is a children’s bookstore located in Hopewell, New Jersey. It was opened in 2013 by Bobbie Fishman, who previously worked at Micawber Books and Labyrinth Books in Princeton. The store offers a wide selection of books for children and young adults, including picture books, novels, and nonfiction titles.
45 West Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ

Dungeon Books, Jersey City
Dungeon Books is an indie bookstore tucked away in Jersey City, known for its eclectic, genre-heavy collection and cozy, offbeat vibe. Specializing in science fiction, fantasy, horror, and cult classics, the shop offers a treasure trove for curious readers and collectors. With frequent events, book swaps, and a passionate local following, Dungeon Books is a hidden gem for bibliophiles and genre enthusiasts alike.
115 Brunswick St, Storefront 1R, Jersey City, NJ

WORD, Jersey City
An independent bookstore featuring a wide variety of new books: literary fiction, non-fiction, gift books, kids’ books, puzzles and more.
29 McWilliams Place on Hamilton Park., Jersey City, NJ

Black Dog Books, Lafayette
Black Dog Books is an indie bookstore in the heart of historic Lafayette. They host many literary events and have gifts for purchase too.
103 Route 15, Lafayette, NJ

The Book House, Long Branch & Millburn
The Book House is the place where you will find hidden treasures for the whole family. Come and grab a coffee, flick through new pages, discuss your latest read, or simply enjoy the company of friends, in a cozy atmosphere. You will also find our carefully curated selection of puzzles, journals, activity books, greeting cards, and more.
15 Morris Ave unit 119, Long Branch, NJ
281 Essex St, Millburn, NJ

BookTowne, Manasquan
Booktown’s motto is where “Good Friends Meet Good Books”. Along with a wide assortment of literature to choose from for the young and old alike, BookTowne also has events and happenings throughout the year that involve and nurture the reader in all of us.
171 Main Street, Manasquan, NJ

The Chatham Bookseller, Madison
The Chatham Bookseller is a charming, independently-owned bookstore located in Madison, NJ. Specializing in rare, antiquarian, and out-of-print books, it has been a literary haven for book enthusiasts for decades. The store’s warm and inviting atmosphere is filled with shelves brimming with a carefully curated selection of books spanning various genres, including literature, history, art, and more. Knowledgeable staff are always on hand to assist with recommendations or to help track down elusive titles
8 Green Village Road Madison, NJ

The Nature of Reading Bookshop, Madison
Nestled in Madison, the local environmental bookstore is a haven for literature enthusiasts and nature advocates, offering a carefully curated selection of nature writing, climate change literature, and seasonal reads.
22 Main St, Madison, NJ

Words, Maplewood
[words]‘ mission is to serve Maplewood and surrounding communities by offering an engaging and welcoming atmosphere for people and families of all stripes to pursue their literary interests. In particular, they are dedicated to the families in their community that have a member with a developmental disability. They strive to help Maplewood become a model community of inclusion through their treatment of disabled customers and employees, especially those with autism.
179 Maplewood Ave, Maplewood, NJ

Chapter One, Mendham
Chapter One is a small, local bookstore whose goal is to bring a cozy, neighborhood store where readers can browse for books and more.
84 East Main St, Mendham, NJ

Iris, Montclair
Iris is an Independent Book & Paper Shop in Montclair, NJ. They focus on a creative practice with books on art, music, design, textiles, crafts, folk art, film, photography, cooking, gardening, children’s, cultural studies, theory, poetry & more. They also carry an assortment of letterpress cards, wrapping paper, Japanese stationery, stickers, notebooks, pens, pencils as well as desk & art supplies.
25 Valley Rd, Montclair, NJ

Montclair Book Center, Montclair
The Montclair Book Center has been a part of the downtown Montclair scene since late 1984. They are one of the largest independent bookstores in New Jersey, with more than 9,000 square feet of new & used books.
221 Glenridge Ave, Montclair, NJ

Watchung Booksellers, Montclair
Founded in 1991, Watchung booksellers is a vibrant, independent community bookstore located in the heart of Montclair NJ. They are a general bookstore, with a fine collection of literary fiction, biography/memoir, and history, with strong sections of travel, education, poetry, and the arts. Their children’s room is a picture book space for all ages – from the smallest reader sitting on a parent’s lap to the happenin’ Teen Corner. They offer a full schedule of author events, poetry readings, storytime for toddlers, in-house book groups, and special programs for writers and readers of all ages.
54 Fairfield St, Montclair, NJ

Second Time Books, Mount Laurel
At Second Time Books, the business of books is a labor of love. They specialize in history and science-fiction/fantasy and hand-clean and cover every book on their shelves. With sections of art, science, philosophy, religion, music, and even children’s books, there’s plenty for you to browse. Boasting over 60,000 titles in stock, and more added daily, you’ll be sure to find the book you didn’t even know you were looking for!
114 Creek Road, Mount Laurel, NJ

Books and Greetings, Northvale
Books and Greetings has all your reading needs. Want a book they don’t have, they can get it in a day. Gifts and party supplies include merchants like Papyrus cards, Melissa & Doug toys, Alex toys, Mom agenda, Life is Good, Bee Posh, and Dylans Candy Bar.
271 Livingston St, Northvale, NJ

Howling Basset Books, Oldwick
Howling Basset Books is an independent bookstore located in a charming Victorian building in downtown Oldwick, New Jersey. Established in September 2022, the store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of literary fiction, genre fiction, biographies, memoirs, cookbooks, and children’s books. Shoppers can also explore unique gifts and branded merchandise, including totes and mugs. Visitors are greeted by Fern, the resident basset hound, adding a personal touch to the bookstore’s welcoming atmosphere.
39 Old Turnpike Rd, Oldwick, NJ

Words Matter Bookstore, Pitman
Words Matter Bookstore is an independent bookstore located in Uptown Pitman. The store offers a curated selection of new books, book-related items, gifts, and games, creating a welcoming space where curiosity is encouraged. They host story times, book clubs, and other community events, aiming to be a local hub for literary engagement. ​
52 South Broadway, Pitman, NJ

The Little Point Bookshop, Point Pleasant Beach
Established in 2019, the Little Point Bookshop’s hope is to create, foster, and celebrate the love for reading for people of all ages.
629 ½ Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Cloak and Dagger, Princeton
Cloak & Dagger is an independent bookstore located in Princeton, New Jersey. The shop specializes in mystery, thriller, horror, and true crime titles, offering a curated selection for fans of suspense and intrigue. In addition to books, Cloak & Dagger hosts author events, book clubs, and community gatherings for readers of dark and twisty stories.
349 Nassau St Princeton, NJ

Labyrinth, Princeton
Labyrinth is an acclaimed independent bookstore serving the students and faculty of Princeton University as well as the town of Princeton and beyond. They offer a large selection of constantly-changing inventory, daily sales, and deep discounts on most books, used and antiquarian titles, Labyrinth Books as well as gifts for readers and writers, art supplies, and stationery. Additionally, they are proud to host a full calendar of author lectures, conversations, and signings.
122 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ

Bookends, Ridgewood
Bookends Bookstore is a nationally known Independent bookstore that hosts over 100 author/sports/celebrity events annually. They have a large selection of autographed books both in-store and online for purchase.
211 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ

Soldato Books & Records, Rutherford
Soldato Books & Records is an independent bookstore and vinyl shop nestled within the historic Williams Center. Inspired by Italo Calvino’s short story “The Neapolitan Soldier,” the store offers a curated selection of new and used books spanning architecture, art, design, mythology, philosophy, poetry, and illustrated texts, alongside a diverse vinyl collection emphasizing classic rock, international, and techno genres. With a cozy atmosphere featuring a fireplace and seating area, Soldato fosters a welcoming space for literary and music enthusiasts. The store also engages the community through events like family disco parties and offers a 50% discount on used vinyl during special occasions.
15 Sylvan St, Rutherford, NJ

The Book Nook, Sea Isle City
Open seasonally, the Book Nook is located right on the boardwalk! They are a family-owned independent book store with a focus on regional titles, children’s books and activities, best sellers, and back-list books. They also carry puzzles, games, and photo products.
3700 Boardwalk, Sea Isle City, NJ

Monty and Milo, Somerville
Monty and Milo (named for the owners’ cats!) is a charming independent bookstore located in the heart of Somerville, New Jersey. Known for its thoughtfully curated selection of new books for all ages, the shop also offers unique gifts, stationery, and bookish treasures. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a focus on community events and author signings, Monty and Milo has quickly become a favorite gathering spot for local readers and visitors alike.
4 Division St, Somerville, NJ

Sparta Book Stores, Sparta
This small book store in beautiful Sparta, NJ has been in business for over 50 years. They chave books for all ages, educational materials, and many other miscellaneous items to please the curious shopper. They’re open seven days a week and have an experienced staff of avid readers to assist you with any questions.
29 Center St, Sparta, NJ

Thunder Road Books, Spring Lake
Flicks, books and rock & roll. Indie bookstore at the beach! Thunder Road Books is a charming independent bookstore nestled in the heart of Spring Lake, NJ. This literary haven offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books across all genres, from bestselling fiction and engrossing memoirs to children’s stories and local interest titles.
1108 3rd Ave, Spring Lake, NJ

Barrier Island Books & Art, Stone Harbor
This Cape May County used bookshop specializes in fiction, nonfiction, nature, birding, local history, US History, classics, and more. They also have great gift items, which including local art, and specializes in vintage beach tags & postcards.
301 95th Street, Stone Harbor, NJ

Stone Harbor Book Shop, Stone Harbor
Located in Harbor Square, this independent bookshop features books, games, and toys.
261 96th St, Stone Harbor, NJ

Here’s the Story, Union
Here’s The Story is an independent bookstore in Union, NJ that has been in business since 1995.
043 Stuyvesant Avenue Union, NJ

The Collective Bookstore, Verona
The Collective Bookstore is a beloved independent literary haven nestled in the heart of Verona. Deeply connected to the local community, this cozy shop celebrates the transformative power of literature with a thoughtfully curated selection of contemporary bestsellers and timeless classics. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and the nostalgic scent of well-loved pages, The Collective invites book lovers to browse its shelves and connect with a passionate staff eager to share personalized recommendations and meaningful conversations.
460 Bloomfield Ave, Verona, NJ

The Town Book Store, Westfield
The Town Book Store has been serving Westfield and neighboring communities since 1934. They specialize in good, old-fashioned customer service for the reading needs of adults and children.
270 E Broad St, Westfield, NJ

Hooked on Books, Wildwood
Open seasonally, this award-winning Jersey shore book shop’s primary focus is on second-hand books. Bonus: It’s two blocks away from the beach.
3405 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood, NJ

Barney Loves Books, Woodstown
Barney Loves Books along with selling new, used and rare books and games & toys is meeting place for many of the local authors, non-profits and special events.
22 S Main St, Woodstown, NJ

Dear Reader Books + Stationery, Wyckoff
Dear Reader is a woman-owned bookshop that feels like the home library of your dreams. This is a space where anyone can feel welcome to browse the shelves, talk to other book lovers, and create long-lasting friendships through a shared love of very tall “To Be Read” piles. The shop was established to provide Wyckoff with a shop featuring a curated selection of highly anticipated new releases, exciting debut authors, favorite bestsellers, beloved classics, and hidden gems. At Dear Reader, you will also discover a selection of fun, unique and handmade stationery, and gifts to give made by small businesses right in the US.
382 Main Street, Wyckoff, NJ