Oxford Exchange’s bookstore stocks new releases, local Tampa authors, stationery, and more.
Photo by Wikimedia Commons
Like many folks, one of my New Year’s resolutions is always some variation of “read more.” In 2026, I’m hoping to tuck into 40 books — I’ll report back (if successful).
Part of what I love about reading is checking out new bookshops and all of their staff picks while traveling. But nothing is better than coming home to our top-notch local stores:
Central Avenue’s The Study is the newest TBAY book spot, offering old school bookshop shelves, plus drinks, board games, and snacks.
There’s nowhere prettier to bookshop than Oxford Exchange — plus, you can enjoy your selection over brunch.
I’m a frequent flyer at indie-staple Tomobolo Books, especially their author events.
Hunt for your next “Heated Rivalry"-esque read at South Tampa’s romance hotspot Steamy Lit.
The Book Rescuers is the place to go for cheap, used books — there’s three miles of stocked shelves.
If another one of your resolutions is to make more friends, then consider checking out one of these TBAY book clubs.
Asked
Asked
What’s NOT one of Hillsborough County Public Library’s most popular books right now?
A. “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck B. “The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins C. “Great Big Beautiful Life” by Emily Henry D. “The Women” by Kristin Hannah
Do we have any Cali Coffee fans? You’re in luck: The South Florida java joint is opening a location near Tyrone Square. Expect basic and juiced-up coffees, plus shakes, refreshers, chai, and plenty of treats. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Eat
The slightly frostier temps are the perfect excuse for ramen flights. Yes, Miku Ramen is serving up tasting lineups of your favorite broth-based dishes. Check out the menu. (I Love the Burg)
Try This
Cactus Jack is making a special appearance at Side Splitters this Wednesday, Jan. 7. The legendary wrestler is bringing a plethora of his WWE tales to the venue with his “40 Years of Foley” show. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Welcome to Dry January, everyone. If you’re trying to stay sober this month, we recommend checking out these spots with mocktails so good, you won’t even miss the alcohol.
History
The Vinoy opened on New Year’s Eve in 1905, which means we’ve officially made 100 years of memories at the Pink Lady. Recap the waterfront hotel’s wacky origins and decades of local history with this fun read. (St. Pete Rising)
Sports
What are the biggest Lightning storylines to follow in 2026? Pregame the rest of the year for the Tampa Bay Lightning with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Job
Manifesting a new job for 2026? Let us help. Our Job Board has 240,000 active listings across industries like healthcare, education, manufacturing, and information technology. Search open jobs now.
Family
ICYMI, Peter Rabbit + his storybook friends are at Florida Children’s Museum in Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites™. This traveling interactive exhibit features seven award-winning children’s books, and it’s only around through this Sunday, Jan 11. Plan your visit.*
Try This
Plan an evening at Lakeland’s No. 1 date night spot. The Terrace Grille offers a prime location in the heart of downtown, art-deco ambiance, and elevated New American fare for an unforgettable experience. Make a reservation.*
The Buy
A long puffer vest with sophisticated quilted detailing. It’s under $20 and available in eight different colors.
No one asked, but some my favorite reads of 2025 were “The Correspondent,” “James,” “Exit Lane,” and “The Idiot” (super late to the party on that one).
In the words of Jed Bartlet, what’s next? This year’s TBR list features “Heart the Lover,” “A Hundred Years of Solitude,” “A Marriage at Sea,” and “The Liar’s Club.”
What were your favorite reads of 2025? Please send me your recs.
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