The 9 Best Bookstores in Maine!

Despite the rise in popularity of electronic books, independent bookstores still flourish across the state of Maine. These bookstores are an integral part of your local community, and will provide you with gems that you might not find in another bookstore. Their character and local vibe just add to the experience. So head out and visit one of these independent bookstores in Maine to find your next favorite book!  

Longfellow Books, Portland, ME

Longfellow Books is a longtime staple of downtown Portland. For over 20 years, Longfellow Books has been selling new and used books to people of all ages and reading tastes. With an in-house feline friend, always up for adoption, monthly book readings, and an extensive used book section, you’ll love Longfellow Books. 

Gulf of Maine Books, Brunswick, ME

Founded in 1979, the Gulf of Maine Books is mid-coast Maine’s only independent, alternative bookstore located in Brunswick. Open daily from Monday through Saturday, spend a few hours browsing through the many shelves to find a new treasure to take home to read.

Letterpress Books, Portland, ME

This family-owned bookstore is open daily in Portland’s North Deering neighborhood. With over 24 years of experience, owner Katherine Osborne loves to share her passion for reading and her personal book suggestions. Check out their events page to find book signings and readings from your favorite authors. 

Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Bar Harbor, ME

Sherman’s Books and Stationery in Bar Harbor has been selling books, stationery, and newspapers since 1886. Now, with five different bookstores across coastal Maine, you can shop for your favorite books anytime. With a large selection of local authors, Sherman’s is a great place to find the perfect Maine book.   

The Maine Bookhouse, Oxford, ME

Located in a bright yellow farmhouse, the Maine Bookhouse is home to over 13,000 new, used, and out-of-print books. Open daily, the Bookhouse sells books as low as $1. If you have a big heap of books, the Maine Bookhouse even buys used books.  

Annie’s Book Stop, Wells, ME

Annie’s Book Stop has been selling books in York County since 1985. Annie’s was once a 130-bookstore chain, but is now 36 independent booksellers across the country. From classics to romance to best sellers, Annie’s Book Stop sells everything just a short walk from the beach.

Devaney, Doak & Garrett Booksellers, Farmington, ME

Farmington’s only independently owned and operated bookstore has a knowledgeable and well-read staff, a large selection, and fast service. From best sellers to children’s books to local authors, if you can’t find it in store, Devaney, Doak & Garrett will special order for you.  

Sherman's Maine Coast Book Shop & Cafe, Damariscotta, ME

Part of the Sherman’s Bookstore chain, Maine Coast Book Shop & Café combines the best of both worlds—books and coffee! Browse the aisles until you find the perfect read and then grab a cup of Joe and enjoy an afternoon of readings. Don’t forget to join their Frequent Buyers Club!

Print: A Bookstore, Portland, ME

With a wide range of adult and children’s titles, an active author and local event calendar, and children’s programming, Print: A Bookstore is quickly becoming a favorite on Portland’s East End.

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