Exploring 5 bookstores in Tampa Bay, FL

From cozy nooks to bestsellers, we’re navigating the world of Tampa Bay’s thriving bookstore scene.

Screen Shot 2023-03-20 at 10.39.42 AM.png

What’s better than freshly squeezed juice and a freshly opened book?

Photo via @shadow1188

Table of Contents

Hey there, TBAY bookworms.

From the smell of freshly printed pages to the tactile pleasure of turning them, bookstores offer a sensory experience that can’t be replicated. Luckily, Tampa Bay has a variety to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for the latest bestseller or a hidden gem, here’s a roundup of five spots to get lost in a good book:

Wilson’s Book World | 2394 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg

Wilson’s makes it feel like you’ve just stepped into your own Library of Alexandria. This hidden nook stocks more than 250,000 hardcovers, paperbacks, comics, and manuscripts.

Mojo Books & Records | 2540 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa

Mojo boasts an extensive collection of new and rare gently-loved novels, an eclectic array of vinyl records, a free book box, and even a tea shop. Pro tip: If you’re trying to spring clean — you can sell and trade old titles with the store.

Screen Shot 2023-03-20 at 10.37.34 AM.png

Yes Haslam’s is closed, but the building remains on Central Ave. in St. Pete — it serves as a reminder to start shopping locally.

Photo via @shadow1188

Tombolo Books | 2153 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg

It’s no wonder why Tombolo is a beloved St. Pete institution. Besides a fantastic selection of books and an incredibly knowledgeable staff — this sweet little shop hosts weekly read-alongs and book clubs. Pro tip: Get freshly brewed bean juice next door at Black Crow.

Comics & Stuff | 2304 W. Gray St., Tampa

This picture book peddler offers a vast selection of graphic novels, from She-Hulk to Johnny Quest. Prices range from $1 to a couple hundred for the highly graded mint-condition collectibles.

Book + Bottle | 17 6th St. N., St. Petersburg

Looking to sip on some Chardonnay while flipping through Chekhov? B+B’s shelves are stocked with everything from fiction and new releases to celebrity picks and Russian literature. Pro tip: During the work week, this spot is perfect for cracking open your laptop and hammering out emails.

Did we miss any? Let us know.

More from TBAYtoday
Dig into delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian fare in every corner of the Tampa Bay area.
The event is a chance to celebrate and learn about architectural feats + design victories in the Tampa Bay area.
Zoo Tampa and Busch Gardens have both got some new (and cute) faces.