Book lovers, get ready to explore some of the most charming and unique indie shops in and around Bellingham. Whether you’re searching for a rare find, a comfy nook to read in, or just want to browse for your next favorite novel, the area’s bookstores have something for everyone.
Let’s get to it.
Griffintown’s Cozy Corner Books
Nestled in what looks like an 1890s cabin, Griffintown’s Cozy Corner Books has called its weathered wooden building home since 2011. Eight-foot hand-built shelves rise to meet big sunny windows, and inviting sofas create perfect reading spots. A pot of free coffee brews all day, encouraging stays that often outlast initial plans.
Thousands of gently pre-loved books fill every nook—from standard mysteries and romances to hard-to-find sci-fi and fantasy classics hidden on high shelves. Handcrafted bookmarks by the owner’s wife add a personal touch to each purchase. Owner Chris and his team know the inventory inside out. Ask for a specific title and they’ll search their shelves or order it with free shipping.
Their trade-in system offers a dollar credit per book or straight swap for duplicates. Loyal customers from across Bellingham make the trip, and the shop maintains a friendly, timeless charm. It genuinely feels older than it is, in all the best ways.
Check out their website →
Village Books and Paper Dreams
Since 1980, Village Books and Paper Dreams has been a family-owned staple in Fairhaven, now employee owned and committed to “building community one book at a time.” Half the shop showcases new releases—many by local authors—and the other half is a lively mix of used books and bargain finds. Staff place Indie Next List bestsellers front and center and can track down first-edition collectibles on request.
Their Devoted Dreamer loyalty program rewards frequent visitors, but real perks come from genuine book lovers offering personalized recommendations. Downstairs, you can trade in books for store credit and browse shelves marked with colorful dot stickers to keep the used section humming.
The Paper Dreams gift area extends the experience, pairing books with unique items like Evolve Chocolate and café pastries upstairs. Storytimes, book clubs, nonprofit fundraisers at checkout and year-round events reinforce the community vibe. They ship orders, deliver locally, and offer curbside pickup. It’s easy to leave with three new reads, a mug, or a greeting card—Village Books ensures no one walks out empty-handed.
Henderson Books
For nearly forty years, Henderson Books has anchored downtown Bellingham with its bright blue storefront and floor-to-ceiling book stacks. Inside, roughly 300,000 used titles fill what feels like an endless maze of narrow aisles. An overflow warehouse holds even more for collectors hunting that perfect find.
Shelves span every genre—from history, mysteries and literature to philosophy, gardening and regional interest. A dedicated corner features rare editions, signed presidential books and specialty historical reprints. Veteran staffers know their sections inside out and will point you to a solid pick or help locate an obscure title.
Most books are priced to sell, though collectible volumes carry higher tags. The atmosphere resembles a community recycling center, where generations buy, sell, trade and donate. Whether you’re hunting a bargain or a hard-to-find treasure, Henderson Books feels like a shared resource, one that keeps readers coming back decade after decade.
Barnes & Noble
Walking into Barnes & Noble feels like entering a temple dedicated to books. Bright aisles display new releases, staff picks, comics and a full manga section. Nonfiction runs from cookbooks and biographies to history and self-help. A kids’ corner offers storytime and a play area, while teens enjoy a comfortable YA lounge with soft chairs and gentle lighting.
Wide aisles and ample lighting make browsing effortless. Tables highlight local authors, and a rotating “what’s new” cart tempts visitors. Regular events include LEGO nights, author signings and Reading with Rover—yes, real dogs join story hours. If you own a NOOK, staff stand by to troubleshoot or set it up.
Members receive a 10% discount on most items, with gift wrapping available at checkout. A Starbucks café inside provides coffee or tea to sip while you roam. With over 100,000 titles in stock, it’s nearly impossible to leave without discovering at least one new favorite.
Comics Place
Stepping into Comics Place feels like diving into a world of dice, back issues and board games under soaring ceilings. Established on Holly Street in the 1980s, Bellingham’s oldest comic and game store offers a generous open layout. Behind the scenes, a conveyor system keeps inventory flowing. You’ll find thousands of items—today’s Marvel and DC singles, Silver and Bronze Age classics, indie graphic novels and rare finds.
Upstairs, a dedicated gaming room holds tables for board games, pinball machines providing a soundtrack and a stage for events. Friday night board games, live music and Mindport exhibits make this more than a retail space. Around the corner, the Retro annex stocks vintage toys, old LEGO kits, discount collectibles and DVDs for when streaming falters.
Knowledgeable staff chat about fantasy RPGs or suggest a graphic novel based on your interests, no judgment on guilty pleasures. Comics Place welcomes families, hobbyists, tourists and locals alike. After more than 40 years, it remains the go-to spot for comics, games and tournaments—just bring your A-game.
