Are Millennials Reading More?
With the rise in technology can Millennials even read a short novel, let alone put down their phones for 5 minutes?
On YouTube, there is a community of BookTubers, whose whole purpose is to showcase the books that they are reading and the books they are anticipating months in advance. Also, they attend yearly BookCons all over the world to review, read, and request new books to give you fast feedback.
If you are not capable of going to these BookCons, here are some local bookstores to help get you started.
Story On The Square, McDonough, GA
Having just opened up early 2019, Story On The Square has quickly become a community-wide sensation. Identifying as an independent bookstore, they feature toys, gifts, and books. To make your time even more worthwhile, their bar, Rough Draft offers beer, wine, and food. Are you thinking of hosting an event? Story On The Square will open up its 2400 square foot event space upstairs for you and your guests.
Nubian Bookstore, Morrow, GA
This bookstore has a wide selection of African American books for both adults and children. There are also books on African healing, food, and spirituality. One-half of the store is dedicated to the Greek fraternities and sororities of The Divine Nine with different apparel. If you are looking for excellent service and a sense of African roots, this bookstore is where you should be.
Book Nook, Decatur, GA
Book Nook has been a staple in the community since 1973. They buy, sell, and trade everything from books to video games and vinyl. They boast having a full-service comic book shop, and you can also inquire about their comic subscription/pull list service. Anything you want, they’ve got.
Charis: Books & More, Atlanta, GA
Who doesn’t love inclusivity? Charis is the South’s oldest independent feminist bookstore operating since 1974. This bookstore showcases stories for those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community as well as those dealing with disabilities, racism, body image, and more. They even offer wheelchair access, use of braille, captioning of videos. Free ASL interpretation is available for Charis Circle programs.
Avid Bookshop, Athens, GA
“Buy local first,” is the mantra that Avid Bookstore holds dear to their heart, and having two locations in Athens helps you to do just that. You can even browse online if you don’t feel like visiting either shop. They are always looking for inventive ways to help their city. Avid Bookshop gives back to the community by using #avidgivesback and #avidinschools initiatives, book fairs, book clubs, free author readings, and more.
Half Price Books, North Decatur, GA
With over 120 stores across the country, it’s no wonder Half Price Books made it to the list. Selling other alternatives to books, they also buy and sell music, movies, collectibles, and more. “If you can find it, you can buy it.” Ken Gjemre and Pat Anderson don’t believe in censoring their products and determining what their customers can read.
A Cappella Books, Atlanta, GA
After three re-locations, A Cappella Books stands proudly in Inman Park. With the buying and selling of new and used books, they also have collectible and antiquarian books. Many authors make their way over to A Cappella, so it’s no wonder they have a vast selection of signed first editions.
The Bookshelf, Thomasville, GA
One of the cutest bookstores you will ever visit! The atmosphere is rustic and clean, and the staff is ready to accommodate you with anything you need. They have a weekly podcast, From the Front Porch, that talks about life in the South, books and small business. Events happen weekly like, Story Time, Saturday Signings, Entertain Your Inner Nerd, Pen to Plate and so much more. If you love a strong sense of community, then you have to visit Bookshelf.
Phoenix & Dragon Bookstore, Sandy Springs, GA
This particular bookstore is here to help ease your mind as soon as you enter their doors. The sounds of chimes and running fountains hit your ears as you browse their selection of crystals, books, candles, and more. They have everything you need to help fuel your mind, body, and soul. With approximately 5500 square feet worth of space, Candace Apple provides classes, workshops, psychic readings, art shows, and other events to help you heal and find peace.
Read Shop by The Merchant, Atlanta, GA
Read Shop is a small boutique bookstore that has a clean atmosphere. The staff is excellent, and the coffee is better. They have everything from children’s book to stationary and adult fiction. There is seating outside for you to enjoy your coffee and pastry with a good book.
Reading is Fundamental
Reading and learning are for everyone. It transports you to a different world, a different time, and a different life. No matter what devices you use to read, keep reading.
