5 Destinations for the Austin-Bound Booklover

A stack of colorful books sits on a wooden shelf, surrounded by soft light filtering through a nearby window

Austin can be a haven for avid readers. The city offers plenty of destinations for book lovers of every age, with yearly events for those interested in the fields of writing and publishing.

Book People

One of Austin’s most popular bookstores, BookPeople is a must-see addition to your itinerary if you’re looking for in search of less commercial, indie titles. The staff at BookPeople are as friendly as you’ll find, and are always happy to help you find something new to read.

Book People
603 N Lamar Blvd
Austin, TX 78703
United States

Phone: +1 512-472-5050

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The Texas Book Festival

The Texas Book Festival is held annually every fall, sponsored by the family of former president George Bush Sr. The festival sells books of all kinds, and gives publishers a chance to scout and mingle. The event helps sponsor literary causes as well, promoting reading to under-privileged children and aiding the careers of new up-and-coming authors.

The Texas Book Festival
1023 Springdale Rd
Austin, TX 78721
United States

Phone: +1 512-477-4055

Lit Crawl Austin

This intimate event gives visitors the chance to meet writers up close and personal, enjoying drinks and board games in a warm and comfortable setting. The event is a collaboration between the Texas Book Festival and Litquake, and is held traditionally in the city’s East side.

Lit Crawl Austin

Fifth Dimension Books

Fifth Dimension Books is a bookstore on wheels, focusing on fantasy and sci-fi titles. The mobile shop is often found parked on Drag at 25th and Gudalupe, or in Hyde Park near Quack’s Bakery.

Fifth Dimension Books
417 E 43rd St
Austin, TX 78751
United States

Phone: +1 512-872-9329

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The Harry Ransom Center

UT’s Harry Ransom Center is a museum dedicated to literary exhibits and events, and is free to the public to visit. The center serves as a research center with a massive collection of books, rare editions, and manuscripts. It’s the perfect place to start on that essay or article you might be planning.