Books are a method of transportation. They may not physically move you like our buses do, but they do have the ability to transport you to another time and place. E-books and audiobooks have become popular over the past decade, but nothing compares to a well-loved physical copy of a book. Technology just can’t beat the scent of an old paperback or browsing the aisles of a bookstore to find a cover that catches your eye.
There are some wonderful bookstores in our area if you’re looking for something to add to your bookshelf at home, as well as an abundance of libraries if you are in the market for a loaner. Whatever your budget or preference, you can hop on a bus, pick up a book, and start your journey.
Check out these local bookstores:
Birdhouse Books
Location: 1001 Main St., Vancouver (Routes 2, 25, 30, 31, 32, 37, 60, 71, 105, The Vine)
Open: Daily
Birdhouse Books is a new addition to downtown Vancouver that carries vintage and used books. The store has the unique distinction of sharing its space with Phoenix Rising Art Gallery and features a curated, rotating art selection. Can’t find the book you’re looking for? They will try to track it down and special order it for you!
Interstellar Overdrive
Location: 7732 NE Hazel Dell Ave., Vancouver (Route 31)
Open: Tuesday-Sunday
As the name suggests, this isn’t your typical bookstore. Interstellar Overdrive specializes in carrying science fiction, horror, and fantasy reads. If you’re looking for a true escape from reality, this is a spot you’ll want to add to your itinerary.
Literary Leftovers
Location: 813 W Main St. #105, Battle Ground (Routes 7, 47)
Open: Daily
For a small-town bookstore that carries a little bit of everything, stop by Literary Leftovers in Battle Ground. Not only do they carry a wide selection of books, but they also hold events such as Dungeons and Dragons sessions for teens and tweens and a Summer Reading Challenge for kids.
Vintage Books
Location: 6613 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver (Routes 32, 37)
Open: Daily
Vintage Books is a longtime Vancouver staple. The store doesn’t solely carry vintage books, however. They regularly get new titles and will even reserve a copy of a new release for you. Be sure to keep your eyes out for Maisie and Dickens, the store cats, during your visit.
Just want to borrow a book? There are numerous Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries branches to choose from. (Note: While FVRL branches are now open for regular visiting hours, capacity may be limited.)
Battle Ground Community Library
Location: 1207 SE 8th Way, Battle Ground (Route 7)
Open: Monday-Saturday
Camas Public Library
Location: 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas (Route 92)
Open: Monday-Friday
Cascade Park Community Library
Location: 600 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver (Route 80)
Open: Monday-Saturday
Three Creeks Community Library
Location: 800 NE Tenney Road, Vancouver (Route 9)
Open: Monday-Saturday
Vancouver Community Library
Location: 901 C St., Vancouver (Routes 2, 25, 30, 31, 32, 37, 60, 71, 105, The Vine)
Open: Daily
Vancouver Mall Library
Location: 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Drive #285, Vancouver (Routes 7, 32, 47, 72, 74, 78, 80, The Vine)
Open: Daily
Washougal Community Library
Location: 1661 C St., Washougal (Route 92)
Open: Monday-Saturday
