The Best Bookstores in San Francisco

Fabulosa Books

Located in the Castro, this is the perfect place to find new or used books by local writers, independent publishers, and best-selling authors. One thing to know about Fabulosa Books is that it has one of the largest selections of LGBT+ books in the city, and also hosts a monthly book club geared toward this genre. Of course, you can look forward to attending book release parties, readings, and other events for writers and readers, as well.

Books, Inc.

Books, Inc. has several locations throughout the Bay Area, but the one at the edge of the Fillmore District is among the most popular. Not only is it spacious enough to house thousands of paperbacks and hardcovers, but it also hosts several classes for writers. There’s also a seminar series with tips on getting published. And of course, Books, Inc. has multiple book clubs to choose from. 

Kinokuniya Book Store

If you enjoy manga, graphic novels, or just books in general—whether in English or Japanese—come to Kinokuniya in Japantown. This bookstore not only sells reading material of all kinds, but also DVDs, stationery, and fun gifts from Japan. If you hang around this San Francisco bookstore long enough, you'll see firsthand the kinds of events it hosts, from author signings to book release parties.

The Booksmith

Located just minutes from Golden Gate Park, and in the heart of the Haight, The Booksmith boasts a variety of paperbacks, hardcovers, magazines, and more. The owners of this bookstore run an author event program called Berkeley Arts & Letters, so you can be sure there are impressive events here and at the nearby event center, The Bindery. You can even join a group that revolves around your favorite book or TV series, as there are fan groups that regularly meet here to discuss and celebrate the stories they love most.

Borderlands Books

1740 Haight St.

Located on Haight Street, Borderlands Books is known for its wide selection of science fiction, mystery, horror, and fantasy books. Borderlands is a cool hangout for writers, reviewers, publishers, and of course, readers like you. It is known for hosting lots of great events, from author readings and signings to magazine release parties and even ghost story readings. 

Adobe Books

If you're looking for a cozy bookshop with a huge selection of books—plus an inspirational art gallery—Adobe Books in the Mission is it. This store is known for carrying rare books, showcasing local artists' work on the walls, and hosting hundreds of events that allow creators of all kinds to get together and network. Don't miss the various author readings, book signings, book club meetings, and live music nights.

City Lights

City Lights is among the oldest and most famous bookstores in San Francisco. Prepare to be delighted by three floors packed full of mainstream and independent books, artwork, and poetry. The store, located in North Beach, hosts free events for writers and readers. Once you’re done checking out this bookstore, be sure to stop by the Beat Museum a block away to learn more about the authors who first frequented City Lights. 

Chronicle Books

Chronicle Books has its headquarters in a charming warehouse in SoMa. This is where all the publishing magic happens. It features four floors of space for marketing, contracts, and other behind-the-scenes business operations. Plus, there's a big meeting space for events like book-themed trivia nights, bake sales for good causes, and blowout book sales. There's still room for a storefront filled with a range of books, journals, calendars, cards, and more.

Green Apple Books

Green Apple Books in the Richmond is home to more than 100,000 used and 60,000 new books that beg to be browsed. The main storefront has two floors of non-fiction, kids’ books, cookbooks, and new releases. While you’re there, check out one of the many book readings where you can hear some insight on how the author penned his or her latest novel. They also have a second store in the Sunset, located on 1231 9th Ave, by Golden Gate Park.

MoAD Store

685 Mission St.

Located inside the Museum of the African Diaspora, the MoAD store is the only Black-owned bookstore in San Francisco. Located in the Yerba Buena Arts District, this store curates a selection of authors from the African Diaspora. This selection includes seven genres of books, special exhibit-specific publications, and curated book selections for various public programs. 

Dog Eared Books

Open since 1992, Dog Eared Books has been supplying the Mission with new, used, small-press titles and local literature. The light-filled bookshop with a striking turquoise exterior also displays local art and has a great selection of cards, magazines, and calendars. If you're walking down Valencia Street looking to buy your next novel, Dog Eared Books is the place for you. 

Noe Valley Books

3957 24th St.

Formerly Folio Books, Noe Valley Books opened in 2024 with major support from the community, who crowdfunded and donated used books to bolster the store as it opened. This charming shop has a fantastic selection of books from all genres, and the staff are sure to make great recommendations.