Lowcountry Lit Crawl: Discovering Charleston’s Bookstores

These independent bookstores in and around Charleston showcase the city’s deep literary roots while also celebrating its vibrant book culture today. Whether you’re on King Street or venturing a bit further out to Edisto Island or Pawley’s Island, you’re sure to find a store that will leave you with a new book in hand and a deeper connection to Charleston’s literary charm.

1. Buxton Books
   160 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
   Buxton Books is an independent bookstore offering a curated selection of titles, with a strong emphasis on Southern fiction, local authors, and unique finds. This cozy shop on King Street regularly hosts author events, literary gatherings, and even local tours like “The Ghosts of Charleston.”
2. Blue Bicycle Books
   420 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
   Blue Bicycle Books is Charleston’s premier locally-owned bookstore, known for its vast collection of new and used books by Southern authors. Located on bustling King Street, it’s a literary hub offering regular author events, book signings, and literary festivals.
3. Trade-A-Book
   1303 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
   Trade-A-Book is a beloved used bookstore offering a wide variety of genres at affordable prices. It’s an ideal spot for trading in old favorites or discovering unexpected literary gems.
4. Itinerant Literate Books
   4824 Chateau Avenue, North Charleston, SC 29405
   Tucked away in North Charleston’s Park Circle neighborhood, Itinerant Literate Books provides an eclectic selection of new and intriguing titles, emphasizing independent and unique finds. The bookstore regularly hosts engaging community events, author readings, and literary gatherings.
5. The Village Bookseller
   761 Coleman Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
   The Village Bookseller is a charming, independent bookstore featuring curated titles highlighting local authors, Southern stories, and great selections for children. Pair your browsing with their delightful coffee offerings and welcoming community atmosphere.
6. Philosophers & Fools
   50 Bogard St Suite A, Charleston, SC 29403
   Philosophers & Fools offers an inviting blend of bookstore and neighborhood bar. This quirky and cozy spot provides a thoughtfully selected array of philosophy, art, and literary books, complemented by beer, wine, and tasty snacks.
7. The Charleston Library Society
   164 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
   Established in 1748, the Charleston Library Society is among the oldest libraries in the United States. This historic institution features an impressive collection of rare and contemporary books, regularly hosting literary events, lectures, and community book sales.
8. The Edisto Bookstore
   547 Highway 174, Edisto Island, SC 29438
   The Edisto Bookstore is a little ways out from Charleston and a delightful indie shop offering a selection of new and used books, with a particular focus on Lowcountry authors and regional history. Visitors can enjoy discovering local favorites or joining the monthly book club.
9. My Sister’s Books
   13057 Ocean Hwy, Unit C, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
   My Sister’s Books isn’t in Charleston, but it’s a welcoming used bookstore beloved for its diverse selection and personalized recommendations. Located on charming Pawleys Island, it’s known for finding elusive titles and fostering a strong community of book lovers.

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