Best Bookstores in Youngstown, Ohio

October 14th, 2022 by

While some people are always searching for the next best restaurant, others can’t wait to find their next best book. Although many people can just jump into a large chain bookstore and order their favorite coffee drink to go along with their read, others prefer a more unique and relaxed approach to book hunting. For those looking for a great experience while searching for their next read rather than a commercialized book find, there is a place for you. Read on to learn about the best bookstores in and around Youngstown, Ohio.

The Book Loft of German Village

shevles of books in youngstown ohio bookstore

Bookstore by Mr. Brian is licensed with CC BY 2.0

If you don’t mind the drive from Youngstown to Columbus, the nearly two-hour trip is worth the visit to the Book Loft of German Village. As one of the largest independent bookstores in the nation, the Book Loft of German Village offers 32 rooms of bargain books. An impressive collection of books is housed inside three gorgeous buildings that date back to before the Civil War. Guests are welcome to walk in and browse the shelves, categorized by genre. You’ll find everything from young adult literature to comic books on the shelves.

For people who are uncertain about what to choose or who want to add some adventure and variety to their reading, consider getting the Book Loft Mystery Box. This special is priced at only $69.99 and takes the stress off of your book-buying experience. Experienced booksellers will shop for you, fill your box with reading surprises, and collect a hand-picked selection of books for you from the 32 rooms of written treasure.

The Book Loft of German Village is located at 631 S. Third St. in Columbus. Its hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. The store is closed for Christmas and Thanksgiving, so shop early to make sure you have your reading material during the holidays. For more information or for questions regarding items on the website, please call 616-464-1774.

Loganberry Books

Only less than an hour away in Shaker Heights, Loganberry Books may have your next page-turner sitting on a shelf waiting for you. This locale has nearly every genre you can think of. It’s a great location whether you’re an avid reader or book collector or you’re just looking for a unique and thoughtful gift for a loved one. The small store housing over 30,000 books has new, used, and vintage books.

The bookstore has been open since 1994, and it’s an established and trusted business. Owners offer a specially curated collection of rare books as well. If you’re looking for a special first edition leather-bound copy of something, check here first. Working to give literature and reading a new life, the bookstore also features presentations, talks, and spoken-word performances (also known as “poetry slams”). You’ll typically find live music performances on Thursdays, and classic movie screenings throughout the week. Check the online calendar for an up-to-date schedule.

Loganberry Books is located at 13015 Larchmere Blvd. in Shaker Heights. Regular business hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information or to find out if a certain book is in stock, please call 216-795-9800.

Leana’s Books and More

Leana’s Books and More is located right here in Youngstown, and it gives the type of friendly and welcoming service you’d expect in this area. It’s the perfect spot to spend an evening or afternoon browsing through books and just enjoying reading the dustcovers of some of your favorite pieces of literature. If you’re a Youngstown history aficionado, Leana’s Books and More has local history books that will certainly pique your interest.

This bookstore began as a little stand at the local flea market, but with dedication and hard work, it quickly expanded to become Eastern Ohio’s only full-service, independently owned bookstore. Now with three locations, owners Vince and Leana Hillard are proud to serve the community and be a leader for childhood literacy. When you go, be sure to check out its indie section of reading. It’s a highly enjoyable but sometimes overlooked and well-stocked genre. Leana’s has a wide variety of books at affordable prices to keep a book in your hand for as long as possible.

Leana’s Books and More has three convenient locations: two in nearby Pennsylvania and the one here in Youngstown, located next to Rulli Brothers at 4317 Kirk Road. Its hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, including how to purchase a gift card, call 330-330-8010.

The Paperback Shack

The Paperback Shack in Niles is a phenomenal little place that offers guests the option of trading their books. Established in 1978, the Paperback Shack is located in the shopping district just under a mile from Eastwood Mall. In business for over 40 years, this charming location has solidified a place in the heart of the neighborhood. This little store that is “big on books” offers a store credit for trades and hosts classes for writing.

The Paperback Shack is located at 6058 Youngstown Warren Road. Hours vary based on the season, so be sure to check the website for an update. For more information, including everything you need to know about making a donation, call 330-544-5937.

So, there you have it. #1 Cochran Chevrolet has enjoyed sharing with you our list of the best bookstores in Youngstown, OH. Bibliophiles can get their fix, find a lost treasure, or their next read at any one of these locations. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite bookstore when you need a break from screens? If so, please let us know. Leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we’ll be happy to check out your idea. You might even find your suggestion featured on our list in the future and trust your #1 Cochran team for all of the local gems of Ohio.