Bookstores are a great place to take kids to introduce them to the latest reads and spend some time browsing shelves with fresh new books. Amidst the lush greenery and unique neighborhoods of Portland, there are several thriving independent bookstores that offer unique sections and experiences for readers of all ages.
For parents and caregivers, there are quite a few bookstores catering specifically to children with a wide selection of well-curated books, family-friendly activities, community events, and a warm and inviting environment. Here are our picks for the top 5 independent bookstores for kids.
A Children’s Place Bookstore
Nestled in the heart of Northeast in the Sabin neighborhood, A Children’s Place Bookstore has been a beloved storefront since 1974 and prides itself on being the oldest independent children’s bookstore in the city. It exudes a timeless charm with its quaint exterior and inviting atmosphere that attracts both children and adults. They have a wide selection of books for toddlers to young adult readers.
What makes this place special is its commitment to community engagement. The store regularly hosts author events, book signings, and storytelling sessions, creating an interactive and immersive experience for young readers. The knowledgeable and friendly staff also provide personalized recommendations for all sorts of readers.
Green Bean Books
Located in the Alberta Arts District, Green Bean Books is a whimsical haven for young readers. The store’s colorful facade and imaginative interior capture children’s attention and allow their imagination to run wild. Green Bean Books prides itself on promoting diversity and inclusion in its selection of books, offering a wide array of titles that reflect the various experiences of different people groups.
In addition to its diverse literature, Green Bean Books hosts various events, such as weekly storytimes, author visits, and themed parties. They also actively collaborate with local schools and community organizations to promote literacy initiatives.
Annie Bloom’s Books
Tucked away in Multnomah Village, Annie Bloom’s Books has been around since 1978. The store caters to readers of all ages, but it has a well-curated children’s section with all types of books, ensuring there’s something for every young reader’s taste.
Annie Bloom’s Books stands out because of its warm and inviting ambiance, with comfortable reading nooks where kids can spend hours reading. The store also hosts regular book clubs for young readers, encouraging them to share their thoughts and connect with their peers. With its commitment to supporting local authors and fostering a sense of literary community, Annie Bloom’s Books is a must-visit for families seeking a welcoming space to nurture their child’s love for literature.
Broadway Books
Situated in the heart of the Lloyd District, Broadway Books stands out as a literary haven for families. Beyond its welcoming ambiance and diverse selection of books, this store has a dedicated space for young readers with a wide variety of picture books, middle-grade novels, and young adult fiction.
Broadway Books not only offers books but also several community events each month. They host regular storytime sessions and author readings. Their commitment to inclusivity is also evident in their diverse selection of titles, which embrace different cultures, voices, and experiences. Their vibrant decor and cozy reading nooks will make kids feel right at home with a book.
Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s Books is a landmark destination as the world’s largest independent used and new bookstore. Its main location is in downtown Portland’s Pearl District, but they have three locations you can stop by: Powell’s City of Books, Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, and Powell’s Books on Hawthorne.
Powell’s City of Books boasts an enormous selection of children’s literature, from classic favorites to the latest releases. The store’s knowledgeable staff can always offer recommendations for the newest titles or most popular books. They also have dozens of well-known writers and artists who visit each month to read in their Basil Hallward Gallery and Saturday storytimes for kids. With its spacious layout and friendly atmosphere, this store provides a busy yet enchanting space for children and teens.
Final Thoughts
Independent bookstores for kids are unique in the ways they encourage literary exploration and emphasize community engagement. Our top 5 independent bookstores not only offer a diverse and well-curated selection of children’s literature but also create immersive experiences that inspire young minds to embark on a lifelong journey of reading and discovery.
From the historic charm of A Children’s Place Bookstore to the whimsy of Green Bean Books, the warmth of Annie Bloom’s Books, the inclusivity of Broadway Books, and the vastness of Powell’s City Books, each store contributes uniquely to Portland’s literary landscape. Children and teenagers can find great books and nurture a love for reading by participating in various literary events and becoming part of the city’s literary community.
Emily currently lives in Orange County, California after spending four years in Illinois and half a year teaching in Florence, Italy. She holds a B.A. in English Literature from Knox College and an M.A. in Counseling from the University of San Diego and has taught English to native speakers and ESL students for over three years. When she’s not working as a School Counselor or writing, she enjoys traveling the world, playing instruments, and blogging about Millennial experiences at Long Live the Twenties.