The best book, hobby & craft shops in Staten Island

“Part bookstore, part family hangout, The Chatterbox Books curates educational toys and cozy reads, hosts engaging storytimes and weekend activities, and throws kid-approved birthday parties for ages 1–9 with private space and themes like Enchanted Kingdom or Unicorn Magic, drawing South Orange, Maplewood, and West…”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Whether your TBR is under control or already a skyscraper, The Cranford Bookstore nails the community vibe with smartly curated fiction, children’s and YA shelves, cookbooks, audiobooks, and buzzy preorders. Expect lively book clubs, regular story time, and author events like Maria DiLorenzo on September 26, 2026.”

From the Westfield newsletter, September 13, 2026

“New World Manga is the spot for trading card fans, with singles for Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and Yu-Gi-Oh plus a weekly slate of events. Expect HeroClix, One Piece, Commander nights, Pokémon League, Modern, Edison and Advanced formats, and plenty of booster drafts to keep your deck evolving.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Recirculation, a project of Word Up keeps books and records moving through the neighborhood with pay-what-you-can finds, a kids’ corner mural by MC Maniphes, and a steady stream of community events like collage nights, clothing repair circles, readings, and jams, ideal for Mount Vernon folks craving low-key browsing.”

From the Mount Vernon newsletter, September 6, 2026

“The Fountain Bookshop has staff picks that actually read like a friend’s recs, shelves packed with local authors, and lively book clubs on August 26 and 27, plus StoryTime on August 28. Grab a buzzy new release or queue up an audiobook or ebook, then feel gloriously local.”

From the Poughkeepsie newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Chasing new releases, hunting a silver-age gap, or need a scuffed favorite cleaned and pressed this week? Clockwork Comics & Cards nails it with a well organized selection, sports and CCG cards, and a friendly, seriously knowledgeable crew, with thirty-three years in the game to back it up.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Whether you need a study Bible, a thoughtful gift, or a new prayer journal, Yeshua Adonai 2 Bookstore is a small, family-tended spot in Elizabeth where owner Mariana personally curates the shelves, answers questions, and sets items aside... they don’t sell online, so call first for a warm, one-on-one visit.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Bookseller chain with a broad selection of titles for adults & kids, plus magazines & gifts.”

“Main Street Comics & Toys is the friendly, fair-priced spot locals trust for new issues, toys, and collectibles. With 200,000+ back issues since 1991, a handy Reservist program so you never miss an issue, and they buy comics and toys if you’re selling, it’s easy to get hooked.”

From the Middlesex County newsletter, September 2, 2026

“East Side Mags is the kind of shop where your pull list never misses, new releases sit alongside graphic novels, and shelves tempt you with statues and collectibles. They host signings, Dungeons & Dragons, drawing classes and a Saturday Morning Cartoon Club... a legit hangout for local readers.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Whether you're hunting new releases, gently used gems, or flipping through the vinyl bins, Montclair Book Center is the kind of place you wander and accidentally find your next favorite thing. Friendly staff picks, events, and serious browse energy make it a go-to close to home.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Just Kidding Around is an independent toy shop with legit taste, from Jellycat plush and Maileg minis to LEGO, Magna-Tiles, science kits, and outdoor fun. Swing by this week for arts-and-crafts fixes and smart games that zap boredom, plus staff picks perfect for last-minute gifts.”

From the West Orange newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Craving Chinese books without the city trek? Timesbook Inc curates Chinese-language novels, history, lit crit, and beautifully illustrated kids’ picture books, plus fresh magazines and new arrivals you’ll actually want to page through tonight. Perfect for topping up your home library between laundry cycles.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Middlesex College Bookstore makes back-to-class ridiculously easy this week with a course materials finder that matches your exact sections, then stocks the rest of your week: notebooks, pens, calculators, headphones, laptops, snacks and care packages, spirit gear, and even diploma frames for Future You.”

From the Sayreville newsletter, August 29, 2026

“The World's Borough Bookshop keeps it cozy and community-first, with shelves spotlighting BIPOC and Latino authors, plus stickers, art, jewelry and handmade gifts by local makers. Expect lively readings, book clubs and park storytimes, and plenty of kids picks to keep both your TBR and gift drawer happy.”

From the Queens newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Since 1978, The Corner Bookstore has been handpicking the best of the best across fiction, nonfiction, history, biography, travel, cookbooks, poetry, mysteries, and art, and they host frequent author events. It’s the kind of Carnegie Hill staple where staff recommendations actually hit.”

From the The Bronx newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Source for new and used books in English and Spanish, plus cultural activities.”

“Radical indie bookstore with a selection of global books & DVDs, as well as regular events.”

“Amazing Heroes is stacking fresh new releases on August 19, plus deep runs of graphic novels, Magic The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh, World of Warcraft, and statues and memorabilia. Hunting something oddly specific? Peek at Previews, tell them, and they’ll snag it for you so your stack stays legendary.”

From the Irvington newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Need a little inspiration between subway stops this week? Sister's Uptown Bookstore is Harlem’s longest continually operating Black-owned bookstore, with a curated selection, local author love, and community vibes from open mics to workshops... the kind of spot where your TBR grows and your spirit does too.”

From the Manhattan newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Welcoming venue selling comic books, trade paperbacks, back issues and more, plus hosting signings.”

“When the TBR pile needs reinforcements, locally owned Here's The Story Bookstore delivers with a large selection and plenty of new releases. They also stock jigsaw puzzles for all ages, which pairs nicely with cozy weather and a cup of something warm at home.”

From the Belleville newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Volunteer-run and wonderfully bilingual, Word Up Community Bookshop/Librería Comunitaria stocks general-interest reads in many languages, then turns around and throws community events that actually feel like community, from Uptown Kid Lit to neighborhood programs like Recirculation and The People’s Fridge.”

From the Poughkeepsie newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Storied bookstore in a townhouse specializing in illustrated tomes, literature & European magazines.”

“Skip the algorithm this week and let Book Culture do the curating. Between staff picks that actually hit, new academic titles, best sellers, and those dangerous window displays, you’ll find something to sink into... maybe even a book club pick that becomes your next personality.”

From the North Bergen newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Astoria Bookshop is a queer woman owned, general-interest indie with staff picks that actually help, signed copies, and frequent author events and storytimes. When your reading rut hits, their curation across fiction, nonfiction, and kids’ lit makes choosing easy... and fun to browse.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Need a smart reset between emails, swing by McNally Jackson Books Rockefeller Center for staff picks that actually hit, new and noteworthy shelves, signed copies if you’re quick, and a lively slate of events and book clubs that keep your TBR deliciously unruly.”

From the Manhattan newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Gotham Thrift Shop is that family-run spot where the vintage rotates daily, so the hand curated clothing, jewelry, furniture and bric-a-brac vanish fast. You’ll also find fixtures, electronics and oddball collectibles, plus they buy estate contents if you’re finally tackling that storage unit.”

From the Brooklyn newsletter, September 1, 2026

“J C Comics Inc is a family-run trove stacking fresh weekly issues, deep back-issue bins, graphic novels, action figures, Pokémon, CCG/TCG and sports cards.”

From the Plainfield newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Books of Wonder is the kind of children's bookstore that makes you accidentally leave with three extra picture books. Semiweekly storytime, signed editions, a stash of old and rare titles, and a whole Oz universe make it a dependable go-to for Staten Island parents hunting gifts and rainy-day inspiration.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Manifest Comics is the laid back local hub for comics, manga, board games, and TCGs, with pull lists that just work and events run by friendly staff. Swing by, discover your new favorite thing, and find your people in a space that loves the same stuff you do.”

From the Bayonne newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing your next page-turner or plotting your own, The Luxe Library blends a neighborhood bookshop feel with full service publishing support and events. It’s the kind of spot Queens folks pop into for inspiration, conversation, and a fresh stack that somehow reads itself.”

From the Queens newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Book Culture mixes new and gently used gems with a deep bench of arts and humanities titles, plus in-store events and readings that actually feel like conversations, making it a smart nearby stop for Mount Vernon readers who pop in for one book and somehow leave with three.”

From the Mount Vernon newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Three Lives & Company is that snug, meticulously curated bookshop you wish every corner had, quietly matching Manhattan moods since 1968. Preorder signed and inscribed copies of Hernan Diaz’s Ply and Susan Kaufman’s Walk With Me New York: Holiday, then linger for staff picks that actually surprise.”

“Adanne Bookshop is the cozy spot to browse thoughtful picks, then level up your shelf cred with tees repping James Baldwin, Bell Hooks, and Octavia Butler. Plus a craft studio and workshops turn browsing into community time, so Queens folks, it’s worth the quick hop.”

From the Queens newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Kew & Willow Books is the kind of Queens shop where you pop in for one paperback and end up staying by the fireplace, then signing up for a book club. Shelves for all ages, frequent author talks, poetry open mics, and the occasional game night keep it lively.”

From the Queens newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Little City Books is the cozy, compact indie shop that keeps Hoboken reading, with shelves spanning every genre plus thoughtful gifts and stationery. Swing by for author signings or children’s story time, then leave with a novel you’ll actually finish and a card you didn’t know you needed.”

“Trinity Book Service curates Bibles (ESV, KJV, NASB, NKJV), Puritan Paperbacks, Banner of Truth staples, and commentaries from Pillar to Welwyn, plus Trinity Pulpit Press. If you’re prepping for Sunday School or just want theology with teeth, this is a dependable, no-fluff resource close to home.”

From the The Bronx newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Cristianismo Historico is a Spanish-language Christian bookstore with a surprisingly deep catalog, from LBLA and RVR Bibles to creeds, catechisms, Puritan classics, MacArthur and Hendriksen commentaries, Ryle’s gospel meditations, evangelism pamphlets, and family worship helps.”

From the Union City newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Stevens Campus Bookstore is more than textbooks, with a Course Materials Concierge, an Apparel & Spirit Shop, and shelves of tech, notebooks, calculators, snacks, even vinyl. When you need a diploma frame, dorm essentials, or a last-minute charger, this place keeps campus life simple.”

From the Hoboken newsletter, September 15, 2026

“com/) is a Black queer woman-owned, community-driven literary fourth space blending a curated book selection with coffee sourced from across Africa.”

From the Hoboken newsletter, August 29, 2026

“From pristine, stage-ready guitars to vintage finds with stories baked in, Southside Guitars is where Bayonne players and collectors score the good stuff and keep it humming. Swing by this week for a professional setup or repair, then fall down the rabbit hole of gear you didn’t know you needed.”

From the Brooklyn newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Rustic Music - South Shore is the go-to for guitars, basses, keyboards, drums, band and orchestra gear, plus a deep parts department and classes if you want to actually learn those chords. Their monthly picks surface fun stuff like Fender and Korg, so inspiration finds you.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, September 18, 2026

“From pro-grade paints and paper to kid-friendly sketchbooks and colorful pens, A Paper Hat Art + Design Supply is the neighborhood spot that actually makes you want to start a project. Established in 2016, they curate global makers, stellar stationery, and giftable finds you didn’t know you needed.”

From the Parsippany newsletter, August 6, 2026

“New Jersey Guitar & Bass Center is a smart stop this week, inspecting and setting up every instrument, stocking new and used guitars and basses from vintage gems to lefty options, doing fret dressing and other repairs, running lessons, offering PA and amp rentals, plus they can order from authorized brands.”

From the Middlesex County newsletter, September 10, 2026

“With thousands of new and used records hitting the floor daily, plus CDs, cassettes, and even Laserdiscs, Jack's Music Shoppe is the kind of Jersey Shore staple that keeps collectors grinning. Stop in this week, then wander to the back for guitars, pedals, amps, strings, cables and other handy bits.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, September 5, 2026

“” Great for kid birthdays or a midweek brain break, their 7,000-square-foot playground of gadgets and games rewards wandering aisles.”

From the Monmouth County newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Relic Music is that rare Red Bank shop where the walls whisper riffs... a concierge-style, carefully curated mix of boutique guitars, amps, pedals, keys, and pro audio, plus custom builds and hard-to-find heirlooms. Talk to musicians who actually play, and they'll help you chase the exact sound this week.”

From the Monmouth County newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Whether you're carving stone, pouring molds, dabbling in special effects, or fixing a statue your cat decapitated, The Compleat Sculptor has materials from around the world, from Italian agate alabaster and Smooth-On silicones to patinas, tools, and body casting gear.”

From the New York City newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Supplier of musical instruments and equipment such as guitars, amps, and keyboards.”

“If your shelves crave something with history, check out B & B Rare Books, Ltd this week for 19th and 20th century English and American literature, modern firsts, signed and inscribed copies, plus children's lit and poetry. They also buy, appraise, and restore, so you can level up a collection or rescue a favorite.”

From the The Bronx newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Whether your Strat needs a proper setup or you just want to audition some tasty pedals, Brothers Guitar Shop brings a curated mix of new and used gear plus pro repairs and lessons. From Fender and Martin to PRS, they’ll get your tone sorted this week, no drama.”

From the North Bergen newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Retail outlet selling a huge array of electric, acoustic and bass guitars, keyboards and drums.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Whether you're a franchisor sizing up expansion or a first-time franchisee, Solid Craft Inc. is the local one-stop team to help you locate, design, construct, finance, ensure, and grow. This week, skip the juggling act and get end-to-end guidance that actually moves your Middlesex County playbook forward.”

From the Middlesex County newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Chain retailer for guitars, drums, keyboards, and other musical instruments, plus amps, and recording equipment.”

“Need a rainy-day backup or a group project win? EconoCrafts stocks DIY kits and supplies for kids and adults, from wooden and STEAM crafts to seasonal projects and even bulk sets for camp or after-school, and they’ve been making their own clever stuff since 1956.”

From the Newark newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Whether you’re patching a jacket, stamping a belt, or finally making that wallet, Tandy Leather Queens - 187 has the good stuff, from hides to tools, dyes, patterns, books, and beginner-friendly kits. The staff actually knows their craft, so ask questions and skip the guesswork.”

“Keyport Music has been dialing in instruments for over 40 years with in-house repairs, meticulous guitar setups, and one-on-one lessons tailored to any style or skill level. Swing by for fresh strings, picks, or inspiration, then leave with a guitar that finally stops fighting back.”

From the Bridgewater newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Musical instrument store offering guitars, keyboards, drums, and recording equipment, plus lessons.”

“Retail chain offering musical instruments, audio gear & accessories, plus rental & repair services.”

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Musical-instrument retailer offering guitars, amps and drums.”

“Retail chain offering musical instruments, audio gear & accessories, plus rental & repair services.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“ReWax and UnWine Candle Making Bar mixes candle crafting with karaoke and BYOB, so you can pour a signature scent, then grab the mic.”

From the Irvington newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Chain retailer with a large array of brand-name electronics, computers, appliances & more.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer with a large array of brand-name electronics, computers, appliances & more.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer with a large array of brand-name electronics, computers, appliances & more.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”