Pittsburgh/ Retail & Industry
Published on August 20, 2019
Pittsburgh's 3 top bookstores (that won't break the bank)Amazing Books & Records | Photo: Karla D./Yelp

Wondering where to find the best bookstores near you?

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable bookstores in Pittsburgh, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to fulfill your urges.

1. White Whale Bookstore

Photo: jonathan h./Yelp

Topping the list is White Whale Bookstore. Located at 4754 Liberty Ave. in Bloomfield, the bookstore is the highest-rated cheap bookstore in Pittsburgh, boasting five stars out of 22 reviews on Yelp. 

This spot, which opened in 2016, comes from store owners Jill and Adlai Yeomans, who worked in publishing in New York City. In addition to old and new titles on the shelves, this business hosts author readings, poetry nights, writing workshops and more, according to its website. 

2. Amazing Books & Records

Photo: misty d./Yelp

Next up is Squirrel Hill South's Amazing Books & Records, situated at 2030 Murray Ave. With five stars out of 13 reviews on Yelp, the bookstore, which offers vinyl records and more, has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for a cheap option. 

This indie business boasts another location on Liberty Avenue in Downtown Pittsburgh. At this spot, look for comics, graphic novels, first-edition titles and more. 

3. The Big Idea Bookstore and Cafe

Photo: Jessica C./Yelp

Bloomfield's The Big Idea Bookstore and Cafe, located at 4812 Liberty Ave., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the inexpensive bookstore and cafe 4.5 stars out of 24 reviews. 

This business specializes in exploring a range of political ideas through books, events and conversations, according to its website. Patches, posters, and organic and fair trade coffee are sold too. 

This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.