There is something about walking into local bookstores that gives you a feeling of nostalgia. The smell of printed paper hits you as soon as you walk through the door and every book you’ve ever read floods back your mind.
However, it isn’t just the books that keep people coming back. These local shops are a place to explore, gather and discover something new. See for yourself at one of these six locally-owned bookstores in Flint & Genesee:
Totem Books
Located Downtown Flint, this local used bookstore offers a variety of new and used books, vinyl records, used CDs, tapes and ephemera. The bookstore also hosts events including live music, book signings and open mic nights. Also featured is a café that sells coffee, teas, soups and literary-themed sandwiches. Totem Books is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, check out their website.
A Bit of Earth
Inside the Flint Farmers’ Market, you will find a small shop that sells books, earth-based products, and a little bit of whimsy. There you will find used adult fiction and children’s books, crystals and stones, adult coloring books and more. You might not know what you’re looking for when you walk into A Bit of Earth but you are sure to find something you can’t live without. The store is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, check out their Facebook Page.
Fenton’s Open Book
A full-service independent bookstore located Downtown Fenton, Fenton’s Open Book specializes in local authors and local products, including specialty food items and gifts. If you are looking for a book they don’t have in stock, the store will special order it for you. The bookstore also participates in Downtown events such as Ladies Night Out and hosts local book clubs at their storefront. Fenton’s Open Book is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, check out their website.
R&B Used Books
For the last 14 years, R&B Used Books has been a fixture in Grand Blanc. Featuring 12 rooms of books catering to readers of all ages and types. Genres include; but are not limited to, mystery, history, children’s, sci-fi/fantasy and romance. You can also set up a trade account, which allows you to bring in your used books for credit and an additional discount on merchandise. R&B Used books is open seven days a week. For more information, check out their website.
Beloved Books
Located Downtown Linden, Beloved Books sells gently-used and new books discounted off their retail prices. The local bookstore specializes in older classics and children’s books. Located just down the road from the Bridge Street Exchange, Beloved Books is open Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, check out their website.
Cottage Used Books
Tucked away in Goodrich, Cottage Used Book is a locally owned small business with over 11,000 books for sale. The shop hosts events such as their monthly books clubs and book folding classes. You can also trade in your old, gently used books for store credit. Cottage Used Books is open Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, check out their website.