Barnes and Noble – 3/5
Visiting Barnes and Noble is always a bit nostalgic, but to be honest, I think it is a bit basic. You can find whatever you’ve seen on BookTok or other mainstream titles, but most of what is on the shelves is predictable. I like a bookstore that can introduce me to something new…3/5.
Bookmarks – 5/5Â
Bookmarks is my all-time favorite bookstore. It is located downtown (right next to an incredible ice cream shop) and is a community-focused nonprofit. You can find nearly any topic on the shelves, and they have such a cute collection of journals, stationery, and other trinkets. They also host some really fun events…5/5
McKay’s – 3/5
I love McKay’s! It is a used book and media store, and while you may not find exactly what you are looking for, you can find some really interesting reads. The journal section is a mess, and I always spend too much money on random microhistories…3/5.
Taylor Bookstore – 2/5
This is Wake Forest’s bookstore, and the best thing I can say about it is that it works. If you need supplies for your classes (or snacks or lip gloss or toothpaste…), you can definitely find them here, but why would you look for a non-textbook book here? Nearly half of the selection is Harry Potter and the history of Wake Forest…2/5.
The Book Ferret – 4.5/5
I also really love The Book Ferret, but it clocks in at my second-favorite only because the journal selection is lacking. I think the shelves are a perfect mix of mainstream and underground titles, and the staff is genuinely wonderful. I’ve gotten some of my favorite books here…4.5/5
The Bookhouse – 4.5/5
The Bookhouse is also a close favorite! It is pretty small, but it makes the most of the space and is just a short walk from campus, and the cafe makes an incredible hot chocolate. I do wish there was a slightly larger selection…4.5/5