5 Indie Bookstores In and Around Paso Robles
Kelly Simmerman
Ah, independent bookstores, those delightful sanctuaries for bookworms and bibliophiles alike! Welcome to the enchanting world of independent bookstores, where literary wonders and whimsy unite. Stepping into one is like entering a realm of literary treasures and eccentric characters. You never know what you might stumble upon – a hidden gem tucked between the shelves or a quirky store owner recommending a book that’s so obscure you wonder if it even exists outside the confines of this magical store.
How about that intoxicating smell of old books that hits you like a nostalgic wave? It’s like the perfume of a well-read adventurer, and you can’t help but take a deep breath, embracing the musty scent like the bouquet of fine wine. The stacks of books seem to whisper ancient secrets and tales of worlds far, far away. And when you think you’ve seen it all, you discover a shelf labeled “Oddities and Curiosities,” where books with titles like 101 Ways to Knit Socks for Your Pet Rock reside. Who even knew that was a thing?
And let’s not forget about the ambiance. The creaky wooden floors sing stories of countless footsteps over the years, and the cozy nooks invite you to curl up with a book.
Here are five local independent bookstores in and around Paso:
Spare Time Books If you like a bookstore that is floor-to-ceiling, chock full of books, this is the place for you. They mainly focus on used books and have a brilliant program where one can read and turn the book back in for credit. Online, they offer mystery book boxes that focus on genres like romance, vintage classics, or your favorite genre. 945 12th Street, Paso Robles.
Book Odyssey Book Odyssey is a delightful bookstore in Atascadero and is just a short distance from Paso Robles. They offer both new and well-priced used books. They are super friendly but give you plenty of space to be with the books. 1855 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
Phoenix Books This is a fabulous used bookstore with a ton of titles and plenty of downtown San Luis Obispo charm. The more you explore, the more you’ll be amazed. It’s in a perfect location and has lots of variety. 986 Monterrey Street, San Luis Obispo.
Coalesce Bookstore and More This store is packed with books but organized and comfortable, with a beautiful garden oasis in the back. It features new and used books and is wonderfully situated in the middle of town among other cool shops. It’s cozy, eclectic, and ideal. 845 Main Street, Morro Bay.
Volumes of Pleasure Book Shoppe This little gem is a diverse store in the small town of Los Osos on the Central Coast. They have made it their goal to carry as wide a variety of books, gifts, jewelry, and spiritual and holistic supplies as will fit within their walls. 1016 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos.
Independent bookstores are a rare breed, keeping the spirit of reading alive one dog-eared page at a time. So next time you find yourself in one of these treasure troves, take a moment to savor the charm, the characters, and the stories that only an independent bookstore can deliver. Happy reading, fellow book adventurers!