El Paso’s bookshops offer more than just books
El Paso’s independent bookstores provide more than just a place to purchase books. These local shops are cultural hubs, offering everything from rare finds to community events.
Among those events are gatherings of the El Paso Matters Book Club. The club, launched in 2022, encourages readers to discover books, stories and authors with ties to the borderland and expand their collection of favorites.
The El Paso Matters Book Club hosts bi-monthly gatherings with selected authors, and brings you exclusive author interviews, and news and features about new releases and more. Click here to join.
Here’s a look at some of El Paso’s oft-visited independent bookstores:
Books are Gems
Books Are Gems is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy in El Paso. The organization provides free books to children and offers affordable options for educators and families. With an inventory that spans all genres, it’s a community favorite.
Must check-out: The children’s book section and free book giveaways for kids.
- Location: 7744 N. Loop Drive, Suite B.
- Website: Books Are Gems
- Social media: Instagram and Facebook
Brave Books
Brave Books emphasizes works written by marginalized voices. Located near the University of Texas at El Paso in West-Central, it’s a popular spot for students and community members. The shop also features a robust lineup of poetry nights, open mic events and social justice discussions.
Must check-out: The ’zine collection and local authors shelf.
Cactus Flower Bookery
Cactus Flower Bookery specializes in used books with a focus on romance, mystery and fantasy genres.
Must check-out: Unique book-themed merch, including shirts, sweaters, totes and more.
Friends of the Library Bookstore
The Friends of the Library Bookstore is a treasure trove of affordable reads from great classics to bestsellers as well as magazines, periodicals, music and videos and other media resources. Operated by volunteers, this nonprofit shop supports El Paso’s public library system as proceeds go back to the library. Prices that often start at just $1.
Must check-out: Monthly clearance sales and vintage book finds.
Locations:
- Friends of Cielo Vista Library, 3025 McRae Blvd.
- The Bookmark – Friends of Westside Branch, 7348 Remcon Circle.
- Friends of Irving Schwartz Bookstore, 1757 George Dieter Drive.
- Friends of the Northeast Bookstore, 9600 Dyer St., Suite C.