Strand Bookstore | Manhattan

The Strand Bookstore is a beloved and iconic independent bookstore located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. It has earned a reputation as a literary landmark, renowned for its vast collection of books, rich history, and strong connection to New York’s literary culture. Here's a detailed look at the Strand Bookstore:

History and Legacy

Founded in 1927: The Strand Bookstore was opened by Benjamin Bass, an immigrant from Lithuania, in the Fourth Avenue Book Row, which, at the time, was home to 48 bookstores. The Strand was one of the original bookstores of this famous stretch and is now the last surviving store of that era.

The Bass Family's Role:

Benjamin’s son, Fred Bass, took over the store in 1957 and moved it to its current location at 828 Broadway in 1996, just a few blocks away from its original location. The building was purchased for $8.2 million, and the store continued to expand, becoming a New York City institution.

Fred’s daughter, Nancy Bass Wyden, became the owner of the Strand in 1986 and later took over full ownership in 2018. Under her leadership, the store expanded its offerings, renovated the space, and introduced new services like Books by the Foot.

Store Features and Layout

The Strand Bookstore spans three floors of a historic building in the East Village, where customers can find an extensive collection of books, literary merchandise, and rare editions. The store is famous for its "18 miles of books," a reference to the vast number of books in stock, with the store offering over 2.5 million books.

Ground Floor:

The entrance is marked by colorful shelves of books, welcoming visitors into the store. The first floor is filled with popular titles and general categories, from fiction to art and photography.

Second Floor:

This level is home to a more extensive selection of art, architecture, travel, history, and photography books. It also includes a children’s book section, with classics and new releases for young readers.

Literary Events and Author Signings: The second floor is also the space for author talks, book signings, and literary discussions, adding to the Strand’s vibrant cultural offerings.

Rare Book Room (Third Floor):

The third floor is dedicated to the Rare Book Room, a section for collectors and book enthusiasts. Here, you'll find first editions, signed copies, and limited edition books. This room is a treasure trove for those seeking rare and hard-to-find works from literary legends, as well as works with historical significance.

Special Features and Services

Books by the Foot:

One of the unique services offered by the Strand is Books by the Foot, where customers can purchase books by the length of a shelf, whether for interior decoration or personal libraries. They offer a wide range of curated collections, including books on art, design, history, and literature, allowing buyers to create their own thematic library with books that match their tastes or aesthetic preferences.

Literary Merchandise:

In addition to books, the Strand sells a variety of book-related merchandise. This includes tote bags, mugs, stationery, calendars, and even literary-inspired apparel. These items are often emblazoned with book quotes, artwork, and Strand-themed designs, making them popular keepsakes for book lovers.

Online Store:

The Strand operates an extensive online store, which allows customers worldwide to browse and purchase from its massive inventory. The website also features specialized categories for rare books, signed editions, and custom-curated book bundles.

Cultural Significance

The Strand Bookstore is more than just a place to buy books; it is a vital part of New York City’s cultural landscape. The store’s role as a literary hub extends beyond book sales:

Author Readings and Events:

The Strand regularly hosts author talks, book launches, and literary discussions. Many notable writers have appeared at the Strand for readings and book signings, making it an important venue for the literary community.

Cultural Partnerships:

The Strand collaborates with local organizations, cultural institutions, and literary festivals to bring books and culture to the forefront of the city’s arts scene. Its proximity to other cultural venues in Greenwich Village and the East Village also adds to its cultural vibrancy.

The Strand’s Role in NYC Literary History:

The Strand is deeply woven into the fabric of New York’s literary history. It has been frequented by authors, poets, scholars, and readers for nearly a century. The store is a favorite of book lovers, students, and collectors, offering a place for discovery, inspiration, and immersion in literary culture.

Visiting the Strand

Address: 828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, at the corner of East 12th Street.

Store Hours:

Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM

Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM

Contact Information: Phone number: (212) 473-1452

Website: The Strand’s official website is a comprehensive resource for online book purchases and store information: strandbooks.com.

The Strand’s Preservation Efforts

In 2019, the Strand was designated as a New York City Landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, a recognition that helped preserve the store's building, despite some opposition from the owners. This decision highlighted the cultural and historical importance of the Strand in the city.

As one of the last independent bookstores in Manhattan, the Strand has become a symbol of New York’s ongoing commitment to preserving its independent businesses and cultural spaces in the face of growing corporate retail presence.

Summary

The Strand Bookstore is a historic and beloved New York City institution, known for its vast selection of books, its rare and collectible editions, and its deep connection to the literary culture of New York. Whether you're a casual reader, a book collector, or a lover of literary events, the Strand remains one of the best places in the city to immerse yourself in the world of books. It continues to be an essential destination for visitors and locals alike, celebrating over 90 years of history, community, and a shared love of reading.