Read Local: Venture Inside Portland’s Literary Arts Scene

Portland’s Literary Arts Scene

On a planet increasingly dominated by computer, TV, tablet and phone screens, Portland, Oregon offers a refreshing break for book lovers eager to escape from their devices and relax with the feel of printed books in their hands.

All throughout the year, an unbridled passion for the printed word drives Portland’s literary arts scene. This is evident in the large number of locally-owned and operated independent bookstores in town, who place front and center books that span a wide spectrum of subject matters, types, and genres. This love of reading is evident too in these stores’ full calendars of author events, discussion groups, and workshops.

Passion for all things literary displays itself equally as much in the vast number of books shelved and circulating in the city’s extensive library system, as it does, too, in the community events held frequently at the library branches centered around the literary arts.  And nothing tells of a city that is wild about reading than the major sold-out literary events put on in Portland each year celebrating local authors, the craft of writing, and the joy of reading.

This guide will navigate you through these diverse book venues and events in Portland, ensuring that you are able to venture far into the best of what this literary anchorage has to offer. Books ahoy!

Portland’s Independent Bookstores

Through the years, Portland’s independent bookstores have had to face a host of unprecedented challenges — first from the multiplying of chain outlets, and then from the onslaught of online giants. Despite this, many of these bookstores not only have managed to survive but today are thriving, reflecting a strong resilience. Each weaves its own particular character into the fabric of its respective neighborhood, and by doing so bolsters the city’s renown as a comfort zone for book lovers of all types.

Here you’ll find nearly 60 of these independent neighborhood bookshops, from long-timers to relative newbies, each in its own ways satisfying the hunger for the most popular genres and titles, such as classics and bestsellers, as well as for niche titles, such as rare antiquarian tomes, and all other kinds of literary outputs in between. 

The Elephant in Town

Powell’s City of Books

A Literary Landmark
1005 W. Burnside Street

It seems a little wrong to be placing Powell’s first on the list of Portland’s independent booksellers, since it has posed its own threats to the town’s modest literary outlets. Yet it is its own large local animal that requires it be told of.

Taking up an entire city block in the downtown Pearl District, Powell’s has reached almost mythical status among book lovers worldwide, and as such it ranks as a top destination for the thousands of visitors who converge on Portland each year. Within its 68,000 square feet of retail space, this four-story labyrinth houses over one million books as well as a bevy of thematically-related gift items.

The behemoth had its origins when Michael Powell opened a bookstore in Chicago in 1970. Backed by a $3,000 loan from friends and professors, including Saul Bellow, the store specialized in used, rare, and discounted books, primarily of an academic and scholarly nature. A year later, his father, Walter Powell, motivated by his own experience working at that shop, opened a small bookstore of his own in Portland, where he found himself buying and selling used titles in large quantities. In 1979, the younger Powell joined forces with him, helping him relocate the store to its current location, a former car dealership. To this was added the inventory from the Chicago bookstore.

As the years progressed, the store’s inventory kept expanding, and as it did so the structure ballooned into the complex that it is today, of corridors, rooms of long aisles and nooks and crannies that challenge even the most adept of maze navigators.

Today, Powell’s Books is led by Emily Powell, Michael Powell’s daughter, and thanks to the steady dedication of its unionized staff, it has weathered and made it through its own near fatal challenges.

Notable Sections

To help visitors cut their paths through the immense collection and to also find their ways out once having burrowed in deep, each of Powell’s rooms is segmented by subject matter and is also color-coded. For easy reference, maps are made available in plenty at all points.

• Gold Room: Music, Film, TV, Humor, Gardening and agriculture, Cooking, New arrivals, Used book buying station.
• Yellow Room: Science Fiction and Fantasy from authors such as Neil Gaiman and the late Portland author Ursula K. Le Guin, as well as Horror, Mystery, Thrillers, Romance, Graphic Novels & Manga
• Blue Room: Literature, Drama and Poetry, with an extensive collection of small press publications
• Green Room: New Arrivals
• Rose Room: Children’s books and young adult literature, complete with a dedicated story-time area
• Purple Room: Business, Self-help, Philosophy, Psychology, Metaphysics, Law , Religions, Health, Sports
• Red Room: Foreign Languages, Reference, Nature, American studies, Histories, Military, Sociology
• Orange Room: Cooking, crafts, and gardening
• Pearl Room: Arts, architecture, Photography, Film, Drama, Music.

The Rare Book Room

The treasure of treasures at Powell’s is without question the Rare Book Room, located on the top floor. This climate-controlled repository houses literary plunder including:

• First editions of classic American literature
• Signed collections from renowned authors
• Ancient manuscripts and historically significant texts
• Limited edition art books
• Valuable antiquarian volumes

Pro tip: The Rare Book Room offers guided tours by appointment, during which patrons can increase their knowledge of book collection and preservation.

Book Reading Events

In the Pearl Room, large author events are held multiple times a week. Click here for the schedule.

Powell’s Books on Hawthorne

3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd

While its downtown sibling may get more attention, this one-story location in an outlying popular neighborhood invites a more intimate book shopping experience, having aged into its own personality that many locals prefer. Nevertheless, it does still cover 10,000 square feet , stocks over 200,00 titles, and also has a map to help make your way around.

Store Highlights

• Author Events: Regular readings and signings in a more intimate setting
• Garden Section: An extensive collection of Pacific Northwest gardening guides
• Local Authors Corner: Dedicated space for Portland-based writers
• Fresh Pot on Hawthorne: Where you can sit and sip with a book or two you just purchased or are considering

Walking from the Portland Eco House

Now that you’ve gotten that big kid on the block out of your system, the shelves of modest local neighborhood bookstores are ready for your perusal. What better way to spend a day, rain or shine, than to amble along the nearest neighborhood street, pop into a local bookshop and chance upon a rare title that’s caught your eye?

Green Bean Books

1600 NE Alberta Street

Just a few blocks walk east from the Portland Eco House, Green Bean Books’ purpose is to entice children to grow into lifelong readers. It does this not only with its colorful exterior but also with its little reading nooks and hideaways, where a child can pore over one of many alluring books from its collection reflecting different cultures and experiences.

This focus is reflected in its hosting of daily story times, author visits, an outdoor reading area, and resources for teachers, such as classroom materials.

Twin Star Astrology & Books

1627 NE Alberta Street, Suite 4

Sequestered inside a mini-mall of sorts on Albert Street between 16th and 17th Avenues, in this educational resource a diverse selection of books on astrology and metaphysics cohabitate with divinatory tools such as crystals, tarot decks, handmade candles, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

 Members of the astrology community and those interested in the subject can relax in a comfortable space during private consultations with natal chart interpretations and astrological forecasts. The owners encourage exploration of the ancient practice of astrology in this way and through regular workshops that they lead, opening insights into celestial influences.

Parallel Worlds Bookshop

2639 NE Alberta Street

Science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts will find a quality collection of new, used, rare editions, first printings, and out-of-print books at this shop just a little further down the street from the Portland Eco House.

The welcoming atmosphere encourages browsing and discovery of new worlds within the pages of popular and lesser-known works sitting alongside contemporary releases. In support of its community of this genre’s fans, the shop hosts author events and book clubs.

Vivienne Culinary Books

2724 Northeast Alberta Street

Also a pleasant walk from the Portland Eco House, the mission of this store is building community around food sovereignty and enhancing cooking skills with accessible resources. In pursuit of this mission, it carries new and used cookbooks, culinary literature, indie food magazines, and rare titles.

Integral to this mission, it also retails local and artisanal food products, kitchenware, linens, and wine, and it hosts regular author events and cooking demonstrations that allow customers to explore new cookbooks in a communal setting. Customers can bring in quality used kitchenware and cookbooks on consignment, too, in exchange for store credit or cash when the items sell.

If all this isn’t enough to get you strolling over and popping in, the shop has a secret bar in the back, Cave A Vins, serving natural wines and snacks.

Monograph Bookwerks

5005 NE 27th Avenue

At this compact store also just down the street from the Portland Eco House, you can browse through a quality selection of books on modern and contemporary art and artists, architecture, graphic design, fashion, photography, artist biographies, countercultures, theory and art criticism.

Rare, uncommon and new and used books from around the world share shelf space with local publishers and small press editions. On display too is growing collection of artists’ political and counterculture ephemera, studio pottery, mid-century ceramics, vintage art and office supplies, prints, paintings and works on paper.

Melville Books

2827 NE Alberta Street

Used books line the shelves of yet another compact space down the street from the Portland Eco House. Titles cover a wide range of subjects, with an emphasis on literature and non-fiction. For discerning bibliophiles, rare and collectible volumes are available.

North Portland

Always Here Bookstore

3808 N. Williams Avenue

LGBTQ+ literature and queer studies are the focus of this inclusive queer and neurodivergent-owned bookstore soon to reopen in its new storefront just a 2.5 block south from the Portland Eco House. Fiction, non-fiction, and academic works for all ages explore diverse identities and experiences. Regular author events and discussion groups create a supportive community, and a selection of pride merchandise complements the inventory.

Always Here Bookstore was born out of the belief that everyone deserves to see themselves in books, and that LGBTQ+ stories – especially those that are also BIPOC and/or disabled – are important, and they deserve to be told.

To participate in this shop’s rebirth in the beautiful historic building it has relocated to, patrons and other supporters can purchase memberships to help raise funds to make this shop’s future even brighter.

Comic Cave PDX

1924 N. Kilpatrick Street

Comic Cave is a roomy, humming family-owned comic shop in the Kenton neighborhood. New comic books, graphic novels, subscription discounts, back issues, comic supplies, and kid classes are all made available here. The owner, Doug, loves getting to talk about comics and working to find the right ones for shoppers’ wide variety of reading tastes.

Revolutions Bookshop

8713 N. Lombard Street

Mostly used books on social justice, politics, and activism are housed in this small community-oriented space, mixed with some new books, vinyl, collectibles, and a selection of zines and independent publications that support grassroots voices. Regular group gatherings and author events encourage discussion on pressing contemporary matters.

The store owners’ academic and punk roots make for a bold selection in these genres and more, especially everything weird and wonderful. Patrons can bring in books and vinyl for trade or cash.

Two Rivers Bookstore

8836 N. Lombard Street

Sharing space with Weird Sisters Yarn Shop near the confluence of the Willamette & Columbia Rivers, and fueled by the passion of its women-owned team, this neighborhood shop’s strong selection of local authors and Pacific Northwest history reflects regional interests.

Regular storybook hours, book clubs, cookbook clubs, author events, and more create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages browsing and literary discussions and that reflects the community where the store and its owners live and breathe.

Arches Bookhouse

8900 N. Wall Avenue

A browser’s paradise is what the owners of this Portsmouth neighborhood bookstore off from the main shopping strip portend awaits its shoppers:

• Wall-to-wall sections of literature, poetry, history, art, theology, children’s books, cookbooks, nature writing, Folio Society titles, and $3 Mass-Market Paperbacks.
• Hard-to-find monographs,  scholarly humanities books, technical reference books, and critical editions.
• Notable rare and antiquarian acquisitions are posted for collectors peruse in its monthly catalog.

On its website, even more hard-to-find and noteworthy materials are made available for search.

Northeast Portland

Rose City Book Pub

1329 NE Fremont Street

The motto of this place is “Books, beer and wine all in one place,” and it sure lives up to it. Here, new and used fiction and nonfiction in various genres deck the walls surrounding tables and booths, and a full-service bar.

Spot a biography staring at you eye-level while you’re sipping your IPA or literary-themed cocktail, and you might end up stuck inside the pages until closing time. Then again, a daily afternoon and night calendar of live music, poetry readings, theater workshops, and trivia games may distract you from that solitary pursuit.

A Children’s Place Bookstore

1423 NE Fremont Street

Picture books, chapter books, and young adult novels take center stage in this family-friendly shop. Educational toys and games complement the inventory, and regular storytimes and author events engage young readers.

Crooked House Books

1602 NE 40th Avenue

Classic whodunits and contemporary thrillers are the specialties of this genre-focused shop. Regular author events and book clubs bring together fans of suspenseful reads, and a reading nook encourages on-site perusal of potential purchases.

Sunrise Books

4605 NE Fremont Street, unit 208

In its homey Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood location, this children’s bookstore plays out its mission to build an inspiring and playful space for the growing reader. Here, picture books, chapter books, early readers, middle grade, young adult, and inspirational and devotional books make their ways into the minds and hearts of children of all ages.

Floating World Comics

1223 Lloyd Center

With its specialty being alternative and independent comics, this shop dazzles its patrons with a wide and deep selection of graphic novels, zines, and art books that highlight auteur creators. In tandem with this focus, the shop hosts regular events such as signings, art exhibitions, and workshops, adding its own spark to Portland’s comic scene. Every Wednesday, new comics across various genres arrive, including superhero, drama, and sci-fi.

The store features an all-ages section with classic children’s books and YA graphic novels. Artists can sell their mini-comics or zines here. After relocating to the Lloyd Center, Floating World continues to be a cornerstone of the local arts community.

Broadway Books

1714 NE Broadway Street

Since 1992, Broadway Books has played a key role in Northeast Portland’s literary scene by reflecting local progressive values in its selection of contemporary fiction, social justice literature, and poetry.

As its way of supporting engagement between local writers and readers, the store hosts writing workshops and literacy initiatives, and it reserves shelf space for Portland authors. To help patrons make their selections, staff members publish book reviews in its newsletter. To promote reading among youth, the store partners with local schools.

Fallout Comics

700 NE 22nd Avenue

Priding itself as Portland’s only discount warehouse for back issue comic books and graphic novels for all ages and tastes, this depot buys entire comic collections and sells them back to the public at rock bottom prices, starting at .50 cents each. New stock is presented every week, and kids always get free comics here.

Honeyed Words

2504 NE Sandy Blvd

Honeyed Words is a queer bookstore located within Sonny’s House, a home for over 50 artists and community members, containing a tattoo studio, an art gallery, a bookstore, and a micro press.

Designed to honor trans joy and queer imagination, Honeyed Words has evolved into a venue marketing popular literary genres, hosting events such as Cozy Queer Reading Hours and Summer Story Fest. A house favorite are their personalized queer book boxes, care packages of two or three books chosen specially for trans and other queer persons, with related artwork, a bookmark, and cute, reassuring notes.

Cosmic Monkey Comics

5335 NE Sandy Blvd

Cosmic Monkey Comics calls itself the largest and snazziest comic book store in Portland. Tens of thousands of new titles, trade paperbacks, back issues, manga, toys, card games, posters and supplies are carried here. Staff are happy to help you find whatever you may be looking for.

Acme Comic Books & Trading Cards

5417 NE Glisan Street

Old back-issue collectable comic books are the focus of this long-standing shop.

Anthology Booksellers

9405 NE Hancock Drive

14,000 used, out of print and rare titles are kept flowing at this neighborhood shop open by appointment only. Fiction and non-fiction titles cover a wide range of interests, and a selection of locally-made gifts complements the inventory.

With a major focus on books in Literature, Arts and the Humanities, they house strong collections in the areas of Poetry, Music, Dance, Drama, Southwest History, Western Americana, Native American Studies, Anthropology and Archeology (including a large selection of Mayan and Meso-American studies), Architecture, Eastern and Western Religion, Metaphysics, Philosophy, Science and Mathematics, and many rare titles in various other subject areas. Want lists are welcomed.

Linda Letra Bilingual Books

7101 NE Glisan Street

Bilingual books and language learning materials cater here to Portland’s diverse community. Language learning resources support adults in their linguistic journeys. For children, the store stocks bilingual preschool books, elementary Spanish books, award-winning bilingual picture books, and others in various languages that promote early literacy and cultural understanding, while regular storytimes and cultural events celebrate global literature.

Southeast Portland

 Postcard Bookshop

Books for World Travelers
81 SE Yamhill Street

Postcard Bookshop shares stories from around our big world in just a small space. Alongside international literature, regional cookbooks, travel writing, and guidebooks, you’ll find essential travel accessories, as well as books and activities to keep kids busy when en route.

Postcard Bookshop is located inside of SE Portland’s CARGO, an eclectic collective of retailers.

Red Fox Rare Books

1001 SE Water Avenue, #220

Antiquarian and collectible rare first editions, signed copies, and fine press books are the specialty of this established shop. Subject areas include literature, art, and history.

Mother Foucault’s Bookshop

523 SE Morrison Street

Upon entering Mother Foucault’s Bookshop and getting one look at the floor-to-ceiling shelves and shabby vintage furniture, the visitor can be forgiven if they mistake the venue for an old European intellectual salon or bookshop, such as Shakespeare & Company in Paris, rather than a typical U.S. store.

The shop’s emphasis on discovery over transaction has it making tomes on philosophy and critical theory available for browsing and contemplation, many from small press publications. With such a spread, it’s a great spot to nab rare finds, such as used and out-of-print academic texts.

Its quiet study space furnished with antique desks makes it clear that the place is there primarily to support readers seeking a thoughtful literary environment and to foster a sense of community amongst its patrons. In tandem with these purposes, the shop hosts poetry readings and philosophical discussions.

Dark Star Magick

729 E. Burnside Street, #103

Since its founding in 2007, Dark Star Magick has carried a wide variety of quality materials at reasonable prices for students of every path. These include new, used, rare and antiquarian occult books, grimoires, artwork, tarot cards and other divinatory tools to meet your needs.
The store’s ever-expanding inventory calls for checking back often or signing up for its mailing list to stay abreast of what new items have come in. To help customers who may be tight on funds, layaway is provided at no charge, and shipping is free in the US. on orders of $50 or more.

Staff are also happy to help you find the perfect rare book or grimoire for your collection, and if you bring any books that they’d like to stock, they’ll give you cash or trade with you for them.

Up Up Books

1211 SE Stark Street

The Portland East Side’s diverse community is celebrated in this colorfully decorated bookstore and community workshop space, with a special interest in small press publishers, social concerns, and the stories less told. Little reading nooks and a special back pocket room for children make for a fun visit, and regular author events keep the place warmly humming.

Burnside Rare Books

2505 SE 11th Avenue, #326

Antiquarian and collectible books, such as rare first editions, signed copies, and fine press books, are the specialty of this established shop, focusing almost exclusively on 20th Century literature, art, and history.

Books With Pictures

1401 SE Division Street

Comic books and graphic novels are the draw for all tastes and ages in this shop. Its commitment to inclusivity is evident in the titles featuring a wide range of characters and stories. Regular readings and workshops are held to engage the community and promote literacy, and educational resources for teachers and parents are also available.

Future Dreams

1847 East Burnside Street, Suite 116

A full line of new comic books and graphic novels for all ages and tastes, including back issues and collectibles, grace the shelves at this welcoming shop. Also carried here is an extensive supply of back issue comics and magazines, pre-owned paperback and hardcover novels, collectible paperbacks, prints, posters and portfolios, graphic novels, statues and much more.

Excalibur Comics

2444 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Billing itself as the oldest and coolest comic book store in Portland, this family-owned store prides itself on its passionate love of comics. This manifests through its extensive collection of contemporary favorites and rare collectible books. They also sell books and buy and trade comics.

Tasteecat Comics

2621 SE Clinton Street

Comic books, original artwork and mylars by the thousands are available for purchase at this “Clintonville” shop, as well as on their website and at conventions around the country. They also buy key issues, collections, runs and artwork.

Backstory Books and Yarn

3129 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Used literary fiction, classics, and craft books share space with locally-sourced and hand-dyed yarns in this shop where knitting groups and author events are regularly held.

Secret Room Shop

3225 SE Division Street

At this Division Street shop you can find work published by Secret Room Press, a comics & art publisher and active print shop.

Third Eye Books and Gifts

2518 SE 33rd Avenue

Founded in 2019 by Michelle Lewis and Charles Hannah, Third Eye Books and Gifts aims to be the leading supplier of African-centered books and gifts in the area. The store promotes cultural pride and healing through its products, and the owners are big on excellent customer service.

As a 100% Black-owned business, it supports community organizations and practices cooperative economics by supporting community-based organizations.

Belmont Books

3415 SE Belmont Street

Although it opened only in 2018, being filled to the brim with a great selection of books new and used, along with being run by a friendly and helpful owner, has this little shop seeming to customers as though it’s been in the neighborhood forever.

David Morrison Books

1420 SE 37th Avenue

Antiquarian and collectible books are the specialty of this established shop. Rare first editions and signed copies appeal to serious collectors. Subject areas include literature, history, and philosophy.

Bingo Used Books

3366 SE Powell Blvd

Billing itself as Portland’s Largest all-used Bookstore, the owners of this spacious location carry over 100,000 used books, children’s books, CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, VHS movies, comic books, and more, including over 10,000 items at only $1 each.

The shop also pays cash or trades for books, records, CDs, VHS, DVDs, and comics.

Golden Key Metaphysical Bookstore

4525 SE Stark Street

Spirituality and personal growth are the focus of this long-standing shop inside the church of the Unity Spiritual Center of Portland. Books on meditation, alternative healing, and world religions line the shelves. Crystals, tarot decks, and other metaphysical tools complement the inventory. Regular workshops and events explore various spiritual practices.

Wallace Books

7241 SE Milwaukie Blvd

From her little bungalow in the heart of Portland’s Sellwood/Westmoreland neighborhood, Julie at Wallace Books is your source for new and used books, both the hottest new best sellers, and that hard-to-find out-of-print, oddball treasure.

Musical Monsters & Budding Bookworms

4203 SE Woodstock Blvd

Children’s literature, including board books, picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, and young adult novels share space with music education materials in this family-friendly shop.
Instruments, sheet music, and music-themed toys complement the inventory. Regular storytimes, musical classes, and group activities and games allow young readers and listeners to grow and while having a blast doing so.

Word Virus Books

6518 SE Foster Road

Independent publishers and small press titles take center stage in this small literary home in the Foster-Powell neighborhood, with an emphasis on literature, poetry, experimental fiction, and avant-garde works. Regular readings and events promote local and visiting authors, while zines and chapbooks are carried in order to support DIY publishing.
We offer new & used books & buy quality used books.

Rose City Reads

221 NE 122nd Avenue, Suite A

Over 15,000 used books, media, stationery and literary gifts support the local library system in this volunteer-run shop. Shelves are restocked daily in order to ensure a fresh selection for frequent visitors.

Since 1972, Friends of the Library, which runs the store, has advocated on behalf of Multnomah County Library and provided funding for critical programs and services including National Library Workers Day events and the Adult Summer Reading program.

Clackamas Book Exchange

7931 SE King Road

Used fiction and non-fiction titles in various genres cover a wide range of interests in this suburban shop, and affordable prices and trade-in options make building a personal library accessible.

Northwest Portland

Passages Bookshop

NW Upshur Street, #660

This specialized shop appeals to serious collectors of rare and collectible books, such as first editions and signed copies of poetry books, book arts, and typography from small and fine press publications.

Daedalus Books

2074 NW Flanders Street

Primarily a used bookstore, this shop is nevertheless stocked with a fine selection of new books. Its concentration is strongly on art, philosophy, music, and literature, yet it is supplied with general stock.

New Renaissance Bookshop

1338 NW 23rd Avenue

Books on meditation, personal growth, alternative healing, spirituality and world religions remain the focus of this long-standing shop taking up two beautiful, connected historic houses. Complementing this inventory are crystals, tarot decks, and other metaphysical tools, as well as regular workshops and events.

Bishop & Wilde at Tin House

2601 NW Thurman Street

This queer-owned outlet on the ground floor of Tin House Books directs attention onto literary fiction and poetry from emerging voices as well as on experimental works put out by independent publishers. To foster a community of literary enthusiasts, regular author events and writing workshops are held here.

South & Southwest Portland

Hi Books

1211 SW Broadway

The primary focus of this woman-owned, AAPI-owned, artist-run bookstore are rare and contemporary art books, magazines, and ephemera focusing on art, fashion, design, youth and rave culture, queer history, and counterculture. The store emphasizes independent publishers and works by women, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC creators.

Hi Books exhibits a rotating gallery of rare prints and hosts book launches, community events, and exhibitions showcasing young contemporary artists and photographers. Founded by an illustrator and a photographer, the store relishes sharing their passion for books and visual arts with the community.

Friends Library Store

Multnomah County Central Library
801 SW 10th Avenue

Over 15,000 used books, media, stationery and literary gifts support the local library system in this volunteer-run shop housed in the lobby of the Central Library. Shelves are restocked daily in order to ensure a fresh selection for frequent visitors.

Since 1972, Friends of the Library, which runs the store, has advocated on behalf of Multnomah County Library and has provided funding for critical programs and services including National Library Workers Day events and the Adult Summer Reading program.

Bold Coffee & Books

1755 SW Jefferson Street

BOLD Coffee & Books is a family-run business that was launched in 2024 in order to create a safe, comfortable community space for all, in particular marginalized individuals. Integral with this focus, they serve premium coffee, display art from marginalized artists, host events such as writing workshops and local author readings, and ensure that over 80% of their book and gift inventory features works by BIPOC, AAPI, disabled, and other underrepresented groups.

Chaparral Books

S. Corbett Avenue

Western Americana, pop culture, and Native American and regional history are the specialties of this niche bookshop. Rare, hard to find, used and out-of-print titles appeal to collectors and researchers, and offline research assistance is provided.. Maps, photographs, and ephemera complement the book selection, and author readings are held in keeping with its focus.

Annie Bloom’s Books

7834 SW Capital Hwy

Established in 1978, Annie Bloom’s Books has been most intent on making literary fiction available to its patrons, particularly works by Pacific Northwest authors. To foster a community atmosphere around this mission, they host monthly book clubs and author events. Complementing its book collections is a variety of gift items available for purchase.

Multnomah County Library System

Since its founding in 1864, the Multnomah County Library has grown into one of the nation’s busiest public library systems. Between its Central Library in downtown Portland and its 18 neighborhood branches, the system’s exhaustive  collection of printed books, as well as audio books, DVDs and CDs, is kept in rapid circulation, demonstrating just how much Portlanders love to read and learn.

Portland’s Central Library

804 SW 10th Avenue

Built in 1913, downtown Portland’s Central Library is one of the oldest public libraries on the West Coast. Spanning three stories and 120,000 square feet, it functions as the main branch of the library system, housing over 875,000 items, including rare books and special collections.

Designed in the Georgian Revival style by architect A.E. Doyle, this stately structure grabs the attention of passersby with its red brick façade, white stone trim, and tall arched windows that flood the interior with natural light.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a grand marble staircase and intricately detailed ceilings, reflecting the early 20th-century civic pride of place so tragically absent in today’s new constructions. Throughout the decades, the building has been updated to enhance its accessibility as well as to  keep up with modern technology, yet with its historical heritage preserved.

 Multnomah County Library’s Branches

Gazing future-forward with making community-centered spaces available, the library has been funded with a voter-approved capital bond to build, rebuild or expand nine of its 18 other branches.

In partnership with the community, the library maintains a full calendar of free programs and events at these ever-developing branches. These encompass social and cultural celebrations, such as storytelling and summer reading initiatives, and educational workshops for adults.

Five of these branches are housed in renovated historic structures, three of which are Carnegie Library buildings.

North Portland Library
512 N Killingsworth Street

Just a five to ten minute stroll from the Portland Eco House, this historic Carnegie library serves the Humboldt neighborhood, in which the Portland Eco House is located. Currently this branch is being renovated and expanded with an unfortunate modern addition that bears no visual relationship with the original building.

Hollywood Library
4040 NE Tillamook Street

A modern branch with multiple community rooms available for public use.

Albina Library
216 NE Knott Street

Another Carnegie library, this branch was renovated and reopened in 2020.

Belmont Library
1038 SE Cesar Chavez Blvd

This branch was constructed in 1924 entirely from funds raised among residents in the neighborhood. Although it is not a Carnegie Library, its red bricked, modest Greek Revival facade and light-flooded interior reflects the same dedication to the love of books and reading and learning as Andrew Carnegie had wanted to boost in communities in the U.S.

As of this writing, this branch is also closed and will be until 2026, making way for yet another update. In the works is an unfortunately boxy, overpowering post-Modernist Mannerist addition that will more than double the branch’s square footage and that, like the North Portland branch’s addition, bears zero contextual, visual relationship with the beautiful original.

Gregory Heights Library
7921 NE Sandy Blvd

Serving the Roseway neighborhood since 1966.

Northwest Library
2300 NW Thurman Street

This newer branch was opened in 2001 in a storefront space that had formerly been home to a pharmacy, a potter’s workshop, a winery and café. Although a very modest space, its beautiful polychromatic Italianate brick and trim on the outside is a visual pleasure, and with its big windows is a pleasant space for patrons. Soon this 5,000 square foot space will go back to housing another restaurant or store, as a new, much larger Northwest neighborhood branch is in the works.

Kenton Library
8226 N Denver Avenue

A relatively new branch opened in 2010, serving the Kenton neighborhood.

Midland Library
805 SE 122nd Avenue

The largest branch location with 25,000 square feet of space.

Gresham Library
385 NW Miller Avenue, Gresham, OR

The second-largest branch with 20,000 square feet, opened in 1990.

Capitol Hill Library
10723 SW Capitol Highway

Serving the West Portland area since 1972.

Fairview-Columbia Library
1520 NE Village Street

A newer branch opened in 2001.

Hillsdale Library
1525 SW Sunset Blvd

Serving the Hillsdale neighborhood since 2004.

Holgate Library
7905 SE Holgate Blvd

A spacious branch with multiple community rooms available for public use.

Rockwood Library
17917 SE Stark Street

Serving the Rockwood area since 1963

Moreland Library
7860 SE 13th Avenue

Serving the Sellwood area, rebuilt in 2002.

St. Johns Library
7510 N Charleston Avenue

Another Carnegie library, operating since 1913, the same year that the Central Library was built. In 2000, it underwent a major renovation upgrading its infrastructure, expanding its floor area, and increasing its holding capacity to 25,000 volumes. So far it has managed to avoid having an oversized boxy modern addition tacked onto it.

Troutdale Library
2451 SW Cherry Park Road, Troutdale, OR

One of the newest branches, opened in 2010.

Woodstock Library
6008 SE 49th Avenue

Serving the Woodstock neighborhood since 2000.

Portland’s Literary Arts Organizations & Events

For travelers eager to venture deepest into Portland’s world of books, practically every day of the year is filled with a robust calendar of literary arts events put on not only by booksellers but also by local literary arts organizations.

By attending writing workshops, literary festivals, and author readings and signings, visitors are given ample opportunities to connect and grow within the community of fellow writers and readers. The major annual events described in this guide are particularly well-attended.

Literary Arts Organizations

Literary Arts

Founded in 1984, Literary Arts focuses on enhancing the literary community. With an outreach to over 12,000 participants each year, the organization aims to engage readers, support writers, and inspire future generations.

Its key programs include:

• Portland Arts & Lectures: one of the largest lecture series in the U.S.
• Portland Book Festival: including author events,
• Oregon Book Awards & Fellowships: which honor local writers and publishers
• Writers in the Schools: providing writing workshops in public high schools
• Promotion of youth engagement through creative writing initiative

Independent Publishing Resource Center (IPRC)

318 SE Main Street

Founded in 1998, the IPRC is a nonhierarchical collective that makes available tools and resources for creating books, prints, zines, comics, and other independent media.

Key features of the IPRC include:

• A library with over 9,000 catalogued zines, the third-largest zine collection in the United States
• Studios with computer lab, screen printing, letterpress printing, and risograph printing equipment
• Workshops on bookbinding, graphic design, self-publishing, and other creative skills
• A Youth Sunday program that helps young people create print media

Literary Portland

Not an organization, per se, but a labor of love, Literary Portland is a website providing resources for the Portland literary community, including information on upcoming literary events, local publishers, places, reading series, and other organizations.

Major Literary Events Calendar​​

Independent Bookstore Day 2025 

Saturday, April 26, 2025

This annual celebration honors independent bookstores with special events, exclusive merchandise, and activities.

Typical Activities

• Special edition books and literary items available only on that day
• Author events and book signings
• Live music
• Contests and scavenger hunts
• Kids’ activities
• Exclusive merchandise and freebies
• Portland may organize a citywide bookstore crawl or passport program, encouraging readers to visit multiple stores throughout the day.

As the date approaches, booklovers should check with their favorite Portland bookstores or follow their social media accounts for updates on events and special offerings.

Children’s Institute

June 12 – 14, 2025

For three days, children’s bookselling will be celebrated. Education for children’s booksellers will be led in addition to general education sessions, roundtable discussions, networking events, receptions and parties, and dedicated time to network with booksellers, authors, and publishers from around the country.

Portland Writing Workshop

Friday, May 9, 2025
Sheraton Portland Airport Hotel
8235 Northeast Airport Way

This is a specialized one-day “How to Get Published” writing event that offers:

• Intense writing instruction
• Opportunities to pitch to literary agents and editors
• Limited seating (175 total attendees)
• Help for writers to improve their craft and publishing prospects

While the November Portland Book Festival (see below) remains the city’s primary literary event, this writing workshop alllows a more targeted opportunity for aspiring writers to develop their skills and potentially connect with publishing professionals.

Queers and Quills Book Fest 2025 

May 23 to Sunday May 25, 2025
Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center
375 NE Holladay Street

This event is a 2-day celebration of LGBTQ+ romance literature, as well as a gathering place for authors, readers, and enthusiasts of books that feature LGBTQIA2S+ characters and experiences. Present will be dozens of authors, books by LGBTQ authors, and books with LGBTQ characters and themes.

Event Features

• Panel discussions
• Social gatherings
• Networking opportunities
• Book signings8
• A Friday night social event
• A Saturday night after-party
• A Sunday author brunch (for premium ticket holders)

Portland Book Festival

November 15, 2025
Oregon Convention Center
Portland Art Museum
Nearby theaters
Various other downtown venues

Formerly known as Wordstock, this annual literary extravaganza will feature:

• On-stage author conversations and interviews
• Panel discussions
• Pop-up readings
• Drop-in writing workshops
• An expanded book fair
• Live music
• Food trucks

Over 100 authors typically participate in the event, making it the largest festival of its kind in the Pacific Northwest.

Poetry in Motion readings (monthly)

Poetry in Motion is part of a broader initiative to promote poetry in public spaces around the U.S. Apart from displaying poems on buses and transit systems, local organizations and venues often host readings and events related to the initiative.

For instance, the Independent Publishing Resource Center (IPRC) and other local literary groups frequently organize poetry readings that may include works featured in the Poetry in Motion program. These readings provide opportunities for poets to share their work and engage with the community.

If you’re interested in attending specific readings or events related to Poetry in Motion, check local listings, booksellers, or the IPRC, which regularly host poetry-related events.

19th annual Rose City Book & Paper Fair

June 13-14, 2025
1000 NE Multnomah Street

An annual event organized by the Cascade Bookseller’s Association, Rose City Book and Paper Fair brings together the region’s most knowledgeable book collectors and booksellers for a weekend of bibliomania.

Held at the DoubleTree Hotel across the park from the Lloyd Center, admission to the two day event is $5 with a VIP “first glance” option available for $25.

The event hosts some of the region’s most knowledgeable book dealers, so come ready to network and wheel and deal. Vendors offer rare and collectible books, ephemera, maps, prints, photographs and so much more. It’s a weekend celebration you won’t want to miss!

Here are some suggestions to best enjoy the show:

• Bring an empty book bag or two so you can easily carry and store your recently acquired treasures. The event offers book storage for a fee if you’d like to stash your finds until you are ready to leave.
• Make sure your parking is paid for the entire time you’d like to stay at the fair. The Lloyd center has free parking several blocks away, and there is street parking available by meter.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The vendors working here have many years of book selling experience, and they’ve certainly learned a thing or two along the way.

Long-time collectors and novices alike are all welcome to come and gawk and buy as they wish.

Planning Your Literary Adventure

Best Times to Visit

• Powell’s City of Books: Early weekday mornings for fewer crowds
• Independent Stores: Weekend afternoons for best community atmosphere
• Libraries: Mid-morning for optimal quiet study time
• Author Events: Check store websites for updated calendars

Transportation Tips

• Many bookstores are accessible via Portland’s bike lanes
• 7 bookstores are within easy walking distance from the Portland Eco House
• The MAX light rail connects major literary destinations
• Walking tours available combining bookstore visits
• The downtown streetcar are free near the Central Library

Where to Stay

Portland Eco House

Take your book-collecting excursion to the next level by staying in one of the Earth-friendly, vegan-friendly vacation rentals at the historic Portland Eco House in the Alberta Arts District. Choose from the homey Patio Cottage or private Patio Suite. Or book the two combined as the Patio Villa — all featuring organic bedding and eco-conscious amenities. Upon special request, you can also book either the Serene Space room or the Quiet Place room inside the main house and enjoy the 100 percent vegan kitchen.

A fixture of the Alberta Arts District, this eco-friendly, vegan-friendly berth is where you’ll want to curl up with your new finds. With organic bedding, a peaceful patio, and a short stroll to neighborhood favorites, it’s the ideal base for your literary adventures.