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On April 25th, independent bookstores across the country – including the stores on the CT Book Trail – will be celebrating the 13th anniversary of Independent Bookstores Day!
Visit your local bookstore for exclusive items, sales, and special events. (Activities vary by shop location.)
Don’t miss the Connecticut Bookstore Passport Program kicking off on Indie Bookstore Day, April 25th and 26th, where participants are eligible to win over $6,500 in prizes.
The Connecticut Book Trail is a group of independently owned bookstores in Connecticut working together to bring more book lovers – both locals and tourists – into all of their shops. The Trail showcases the unique character and charm of each bookstore, while also highlighting the diverse literary community in Connecticut.
By working together, these independent bookstores hope to create a greater sense of community and to foster a love of reading and books across the state. Whether you’re looking for a hard-to-find book or the latest bestseller, you’re sure to find it at one of the participating stores on the Trail.
Don’t miss the annual CT Bookstore Passport Challenge in April, or join the “Slow and Steady” challenge running from late April to Labor Day
JOIN THE TRAIL’S PASSPORT CHALLENGE!
Athena Books
228 Sound Beach Ave
Old Greenwich, CT 06870
Google Maps
Phone: (203)990-0295
Website: https://athenabooksog.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Athena Books is named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, and is intended to be a source of inspiration and gathering place for members of the Greenwich community and beyond.
Bank Square Books
80 Stonington Road
Mystic, CT 06355
Google Maps
Phone:(860)536-3795
Website: http://www.banksquarebooks.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter
Bank Square Book is a locally owned, fiercely independent bookstores committed to providing quality books, ebooks, and audiobooks for all types of readers in addition to gifts, toys, and cards.
Barrett Bookstore
5 Corbin Drive
Darien, CT 06820
Google Maps
Phone: (203)655-2712
Website: https://www.barrettbookstore.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)
Barrett Bookstore is the largest and oldest independent bookstore in Fairfield County. The 3,600 foot store carries literary fiction, non-fiction, classics, biographies and memoirs, history, poetry, essays, science-fiction, fantasy, mystery and thrillers, cooking, wellness, business, fine and performing arts, sports, nature science, gardening and picture/gift books. In addition, Barrett prides itself on its wide selection of books and games for children of all ages.
Black Rock Books
3030 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Google Maps
Phone: (203)549-8144
Website: https://www.blackrockbooks.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Located in Bridgeport’s historic Black Rock neighborhood, Black Rock Books aims to be a neighborhood haven for readers of all ages. The shop offers a curated selection of new and used books, as well as a variety of community events. From family storytime to author talks, to wellness workshops and monthly poetry nights!
The Booksmiths Shoppe
100 Reserve Road
Danbury, CT 06810
Google Maps
Phone: (203) 216 – 7602
Website: booksmithsshoppe.com
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Located in Danbury, CT, our woman-owned independent bookstore is aimed at offering quality used and new books, and sidelines to the general public, moderately priced, shipping quickly and with special care in packaging.
We view ourselves as contributors to the reduction of landfills, promoting literacy, and keeping the physical book alive in a digital age. We donate a portion of our proceeds to local non profit organizations.
Books on the Common
404 Main Street
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Google Maps
Phone: (203)431-9100
Website: https://booksonthecommon.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Books on the Common has been serving the greater Ridgefield area since 1984. A full-range bookstore, Books on the Common provides a place for people to come together to discuss books, local politics, world affairs or anything else on their minds!
Breakwater Books
81 Whitfield Street
Guilford, CT 06437
Google Maps
Phone:(203)241-0050
Website: https://breakwaterbooks.net/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Breakwater Books, an independent bookstore located on the historic Guilford Green, is known for its curated selection of books. They also carry reader glasses, bookmarks, page marks, puzzles, playing cards, games, stickers, magnets, greeting cards, candles, matches, pens, pencils, journals, stationery and more!
Byrd’s Books
178 Greenwood Ave
Bethel, CT 06801
Google Maps
Phone: (203)730-2973
Website: https://www.byrdsbooks.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Byrd’s Books is located on Greenwood Avenue across the street from the Bethel Public Library. We carry only new titles: bestsellers, independent favorites, poetry, children’s, a selection of deep discount books and more.
The Curious Cat Bookshop
386 Main Street
Winsted, CT 06098
Google Maps
Phone: (860) 909-1014
Website: https://curiouscatbookshop.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | X (Twitter)
The Curious Cat Bookshop is a full-service bookstore, offering new books for all ages and genre interests as well as bookish gift items, stickers, games and puzzles, and greeting cards.
Diane’s Books of Greenwich
8A Grigg Street
Greenwich, CT 06830
Phone: (203)869-1515
Website: https://www.dianesbooks.com
Social Media: Instagram
Diane’s Books has been open since 1990. Our bricks and mortar store is in the lovely town of Greenwich, Connecticut and is a full-service family bookstore. We are literally bursting with books with around 35,000 titles (but whose counting?!) on our shelves.
Elm Street Books
35 Elm Street
New Canaan, CT 06840
Google Maps
Phone: (203)966-4545
Website: http://www.elmstreetbooks.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Elm Street Books is a beloved independent bookstore located in the heart of New Canaan. With a wide selection of books for all ages and interests, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a destination for book lovers near and far.
The Enchanted Violet
51 North Main Street Unit 1D
Southington, CT 06489
Google Maps
Website: theenchantedviolet.com
Social Media: Instagram
The Enchanted Violet is an LGBTQIA+ bookstore, which features 16 local artist! We are dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming place for all types of people. Every book in our store has either LGBTQIA or disability representation. Like gay books? Come check us out!
Folklore & Fable Booksellers
44 Main Street
Colchester, CT 06415
Google Maps
Phone: (860) 287 – 7166
Website: www.folkloreandfablebooks.com
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Folklore & Fable is an independent, woman-owned bookstore in Colchester, CT’s historic Merchant’s Row, just steps from the town green. We carry a wide selection of fiction and nonfiction books for children and adults, as well as a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, toys, games, and more. Folklore & Fable first opened its doors in February 2025.
The Golden Owl
19 Golden Street
New London, CT 06320
Google Maps
Phone: (860)924-2695
Website: https://goldenowl.shop/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
The Golden Owl is a bookstore selling new, used and antique books as well as plants and gift items. Wi-fi and seating are available along with drinks and snacks.
Goods and Curiosities, The Griswold Inn Store
Goods & Curiosities, The Griswold Inn Store
47 Main Street
Essex, CT 06426
Google Maps
Phone: (860)767-0210
Website: https://store.griswoldinn.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Goods & Curiosities at The Griswold Inn is a charming boutique located in historic Essex, CT. This unique shop offers a carefully curated selection of gifts, souvenirs, and handmade items from local artisans, as well as a selection of books and specialty food products. It’s a must-visit destination for those exploring the town.
Harbor Books
146 Main Street
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Google Maps
Phone: (860)388-6850
Website: http://www.harborbooks.com/
Harbor Books is an independent bookstore located in the picturesque town of Old Saybrook, Connecticut. This cozy shop offers a carefully curated selection of new releases, bestsellers, and classics, as well as a variety of gifts and stationery.
The Hickory Stick Bookshop
2 Green Hill Road
Washington Depot, CT 06794
Google Maps
Phone: (860)868-0525
Website: https://www.hickorystickbookshop.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
The Hickory Stick Bookshop is a charming independent bookstore located in the quaint village of Washington Depot, Connecticut. With a wide range of titles, including bestsellers, children’s books, and local interest titles, as well as gifts, cards, and stationery, it’s a favorite destination for book lovers and gift shoppers alike.
House of Books
10 N Main Street
Kent, CT 06757
Google Maps
Phone: (860)927-4104
Website: https://www.houseofbooksct.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter
Kent’s Literary Landmark for over 40 years! House of Books carries bestsellers, independent titles, children’s books, and more virtually on their website!
Kindred Thoughts Bookstore
1001 Main Street, Suite 8
Bridgeport, CT 06604
Google Maps
Phone: (475) 282 – 9050
Website: kindredthoughts.shop
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Proudly located downtown in the historic Arcade Mall in Bridgeport, CT., Kindred Thoughts Bookstore is an independent bookstore that is 100% Black-owned and 50% woman, and 50% veteran-owned, by Karin Smith and Derek Tompkins. We are Bridgeport’s only bookstore with an emphasis on African American literature and cultural events, while also supporting the needs and interests across our entire diverse community.
Originally launched in October 2020 during the pandemic, Kindred Thoughts started as an online book club with quarterly book discussions that connected literary fans from all over the world. Following the excitement of our online discussions, Kindred Thoughts began to sell books online. In November 2021, we opened our first brick and mortar location in the Bridgeport Innovation Center. After quickly outgrowing that space, in October 2022, we moved into the lovely and historic Arcade Mall in downtown Bridgeport, CT.
Derek is a retired fire fighter who served the Waterbury community for almost 30 years. Karin has worked for a Stamford based IT research firm for the past 25 years. We are cousins-in-law turned business partners who both have a shared passion for books and a desire to help promote literacy within our community.
Mermaid Books
22 Broad Street
Milford, CT 06460
Google Maps
Phone: (475) 549 – 8315
Website: mermaidbooksct.com
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Legend has it that real-life buccaneer Captain William Kidd buried treasure on Charles Island, off the Milford shoreline. No one’s ever found it, but folks here love to tell the tale.
Like peanut butter and jelly and Jay and Beyoncé, scallywag pirates and magical mermaids go together. So, we named our little bookstore Mermaid Books, in a nod to Milford’s history and all the fun we have celebrating it.
Located in downtown Milford, right off the green, Mermaid Books is women-owned and family-friendly. We offer offer story times, author events, and workshops and classes for fishies of all ages, big and small.
We’re looking forward to becoming your neighborhood spot for new books and bookish gifts, toys, bits and bobs.
Montgomery and Taggert Bookshop
Montgomery and Taggert Bookshop
26 Water Street
Chester, CT 06412
Google Maps
Website: http://montgomeryandtaggert.com
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
A Small Town Romance Bookshop, located in the beautiful village of Chester, Connecticut. Founded by two best friends and book lovers, M&T offers books from the romance genre, literary gifts, and enticing events. Come visit Montgomery & Taggert, where everyone can find their Happily Ever After.
Obodo Serendipity
3588 Main Street
Stratford, CT 06614
Phone: (203)209-9036
Website: https://www.obodoserendipitybooks.com
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Obodo Serendipity Books is your local spot for books, a free cup of coffee (or tea) from one of our many local spots, chat with our staff, and make yourself at home.
Possible Futures
318 Edgewood Ave
New Haven, CT 06511
Google Maps
Phone: (203)446-2070
Website: https://www.possiblefuturesbooks.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Possible Futures is a community bookspace, a cross between a community reading room and an independent bookstore. It welcomes you, whether you’re looking to purchase, peruse, or plan.
River Bend Bookshop, Glastonbury
River Bend Bookshop, Glastonbury
2400 Main Street
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Google Maps
Phone:(860)430-6608
Website: https://www.riverbendbookshop.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
River Bend Bookshop is a family owned business with locations in Glastonbury and West Hartford. The Glastonbury shop resides in the Welles-Chapman Tavern, built in 1776. Stop in for some unique local charm!
River Bend Bookshop, West Hartford
River Bend Bookshop, West Hartford
161 Park Road
West Hartford, CT 06119
Google Maps
Phone: (860) 232 – 4141
Website: https://www.riverbendbookshop.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
River Bend Bookshop is a family owned business with locations in Glastonbury and West Hartford. These neighborhood bookshops carry a diverse selection of books for children and adults and offer a full calendar of literary and community events. The River Bend Book Truck hit the road in 2021, bringing the local bookshop experience to towns all over the region
RJ Julia Booksellers
768 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT 06443
Google Maps
Phone: (203)245-3959
Website: https://www.rjjulia.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter
RJ Julia Booksellers is an independent bookstore located in the coastal town of Madison, CT. With a vast selection of books, gifts, and stationery, as well as a robust schedule of author events and book clubs, this beloved shop is a must-visit for book lovers.
Some Books
346 Ethan Allen Highway
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Google Maps
Phone: (203)245-3959
Website: somebooks.co
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Some Books is an independent bookstore located in Ridgefield, CT, offering considerately selected used fiction and nonfiction, new works from indie presses and art publications.
Telegraph Autonomous Zone
137 Bank Street
New London, CT 06320
Google Maps
Phone: (860)701-0506
Website: https://www.telegraphnl.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
Indie record & book shop, performance space and community room located in new london connecticut and established in 2010.
Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore
413 Main Street
Middletown, CT 06457
Google Maps
Phone:(860)685-3939
Website: https://www.wesleyanrjjulia.com/
Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter
Wesleyan RJ Julia Booksellers is a unique collaboration between Wesleyan University and RJ Julia Booksellers, located in Middletown, Connecticut. This spacious shop offers a vast selection of books, gifts, and stationery, as well as a coffee shop and event space. With a focus on community engagement and intellectual curiosity, it’s a destination for students, faculty, and book lovers of all ages.
