This is the nicest used bookstore I've ever visited. It's charming, clean and very well organized. Happens to specialize in all the topics that interest me - art, photography, poetry, fiction. Lovely owner. Couldn't be better. If you love used books, be sure to visit here!
Ok. So why the 5 stars for a bookstore? Because it simply ROCKS, that's why!
Here's what happened:
Was across the street at Shelter Island Craft Beer Company sampling their wares (see separate review ;)) Noticed a book store across the street. WHA...? How could an independent bookstore survive on insular Shelter Island when a shit ton of other indies, and even mega-book depots like Borders, have been shuttering?
We just had to check it out. Plus, we saw some woman with a Boston Terrier the same type of breed we own) either enter the store or perhaps the adjoining house so that sealed the deal for us.
I wasn't expecting much: I thought it would be piles and piles of books culled from flea markets and yard sales. Far from it.
Though the selections are limited, it is a well-curated store. I, for one, was in awe of the small shelf dedicated to chess books. There were several first editions, one dating back to 1866! And, of course, clocking in at $400, was something that was a joy just to hold!
Several other shelves held rare and 1st edition children's books. Stuff you maybe don't want your toddler fondling but maybe something to gift to the Grands to read from over the holidays.
In the front was a glass case with books from Alllistair Crowler. A tad creepy for me but hey! It IS Black Cat Books after all. They had some comics and actual pulps in protective covers.
We did not go upstairs (I don't know why. It's not like we were in a rush or anything) but it seemed they had CDs and actual vinyl to boot!
The whole place was light and relaxing. Comfortably cooled on this warm, late summer day, there were multiple seating options that invited you to take a load off and maybe peruse your selection before purchasing.
In small, work areas behind the stakcs and near some of the shelves were many other books labelled for placement. many looked VERY old. I was dying to get my mitts on them just to see what they were. But that would be rude. I mean, it's not like I'm going to find an original King James in here, (Or will I?) Where do they GET this stuff?
What WAS missing (unless it escaped me) were periodicals. No newspapers or mags which was actually refreshing. The place was FOCUSED.
This is where you come to find good, rare books.
This place is out-of-the-way for the rest of us Long Islanders. It takes me a good hour to get to Greenport proper and then a $20 roundtrip ferry ride to Shelter island (car, driver, passenger). But I have to say, it's damned worth it, especially if you are into books.
Take a ride out there early. Find that gem (or three). Carefully wrap them in a blanket and secure them under the seat of your car. Hit multiple wineries and a craft beer joint on the way home. Gloat over your score.
It makes for a great, great day!
Cheers!
Friendly, smart, knowledgeable owner, exceptional selection, comfy reading spot, a touch of west coast atmosphere on the East End.
Directly across is a microbrewery and little deli place.
Features excellent art, botanical, and regional books as well as the $2 paperback great children's section, history and unusual books. Will keep you thrilled for years of visits.
The best! A favorite spot on shelter island. Great selection of cheap used books as well as rare and first editions.
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