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Getting lost in the aisles of a local bookstore is only one of the many charming things you can do in Dutchess. Explore the nooks and crannies of our Top 10 Bookstores.
Step into this quiet and quaint bookstore in Beacon for your next literature adventure. Inside you’ll discover plenty of options in their specialized genres of poetry, literary nonfiction, political history, art, drama, philosophy, graphic novels, and children's books. Its charming atmosphere invites visitors to explore countless volumes off the shelves.
Visit this sophisticated and friendly store right in the heart of the Village of Pawling. Offering both new and out of print books, their knowledgeable staff is always delighted to make recommendations based on your interests! Shop titles from both local and well-known authors alike.
Founded four decades ago, years ago this Millbrook bookstore prides itself on serving their local community. They have found so many ways to further connect with and meet the needs of their customers; for instance, their BEspoke subscription provides with first-edition novels and non-fiction pieces.
Take home a rare title from this cozy, antique bookstore in Red Hook. As you peruse their aisles you’ll come across vintage children’s books, collectible first editions, and antiquarian books. You can also shop their rarest collections on Etsy here, making a great gift for booklovers or history buffs alike! H.A.S Beane Books will reopen to the public mid-August. For the most up-to-date information visit their Facebook page.
Supporting locals can go beyond shopping at our awesome boutiques and eateries. Beacon Reads is a bookstore created specifically to support and fund the neighboring Howland Public Library. Staffed primarily by dedicated volunteers, this hidden-gem bookstore offers a variety of genres at incredibly affordable pricing. Have books you’re thinking of passing along? Donations are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off during their hours of operations. Plus, be sure to check the back room for vinyl records!
Founded in 1975, Oblong Books & Music in Rhinebeck and Millerton is the largest independent bookseller in the Mid-Hudson Valley. With a vibrant children's book and toy section, a large bargain books selection, and a knowledgeable staff, Oblong has something for everyone. Get the opportunity to chat with writers about their work and attend an author visit, and be sure to check out their signed book section. See upcoming events here. Plus, be sure to browse their assortment of tabletop board games, puzzles, unique merch, CDs, vinyl LPs and other eclectic gifts.
With over 20,000 high-quality used books, DVDs and audiobooks, you're sure to find a good book to delve into at the Friends of Poughkeepsie Public Library District Bookstore! They keep their bookshelves fresh by continuously re-stocking from their large inventory of donations. All proceeds earned support the Poughkeepsie Public Library District. Book donations are accepted, please view their guidelines here.
Located on College Ave near neighboring Vassar College is a reader’s delight - Three Arts Bookstore. Known for their partnership with professors of the nearby college, this bookstore carries textbooks for students, and takes custom orders on titles not found in-store. You’ll find a wide range of genres like sports, travel, cooking, fiction, nature, reference, language, poetry and a sizable collection of children’s books. Looking for affordable options? Dig through their small selection of well-loved discounted books!
Don't forget about comic books and graphic novels when searching for the perfect paperback in Dutchess County. Get the ultimate clubhouse experience at Megabrain Comic & Arcade in Red Hook. Browse through their extensive collection of comic books, graphic novels, alongside novelty toys and then play a round of pinball in their 80’s-style arcade! This Red Hook gem is now open and welcomes all ages. You can also shop online here.
Discover a world of literary treasures at Stanza Books in Beacon. This delightful independent bookstore, a recent addition to Main Street's assortment of bookstores, offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where you can get lost in the shelves. With personalized book recommendations, engaging writing workshops, author events, and vibrant book clubs, Stanza Books is more than just a place to shop—it’s a community hub for book lovers. Whether you’re hunting for a hidden classic, the latest bestseller, or the perfect gift, Stanza Books has something for all visitors.
Even after you’ve toured our great historic sites and museums, you can be itching to learn more! As you exit through the giftshop, take a longer stroll through the book section of Dia Beacon which you can now visit with advanced reservations. Learn more about art and culture with their selection of books, artists’ monographs, exhibition catalogues, and children's books. Samuel Morse's Italianate property at Locust Grove Estate features plenty of volumes in their gift shop, where you can learn more about the estate and Hudson Valley history. Other gorgeous historic sites that offer a great book selection include the Gilded Age Staatsburgh State Historic Site and Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
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