Your Ultimate Tennessee Independent Bookstore Guide

Throughout Tennessee, groups will find an abundance of independent bookstores filled with shelves of endless stories just waiting to be discovered. Read on to explore a sampling of the state’s top independent bookstores literary loving groups will want to have on their itinerary.

Tales & Taverns in Kingsport

Find your next adventure among the shelves of this new cozy, whimsical bookstore in the heart of downtown Kingsport. Tales & Taverns is a small, welcoming independent shop with a changing selected of pre-loved books to browse and bookish accessories to shops like stickers, bookmarks and other gift items. 

Once Upon a Bookstore in Sevierville

Every visit begins with a new story at this newly opened bookstore in Sevierville. Once Upon a Bookstore welcomes readers to shop for books, book-related crafts, bookish merch and check the calendar for planned activities. In addition, groups can mark their calendars for Appalachian WordFest in Sevierville (February 27, 2027). The festival is a celebration of the voices, stories and creativity that flow from the Appalachian Mountains. Authors, poets, publishers and book lovers gather for storytelling, a lively poetry slam, book fair with more than 80 book vendors, food trucks, complimentary coffee bar and peaceful spots to read and relax.

The Next Chapter Bookshop in Gatlinburg

Nestled in the heart of Gatlinburg's historic Arts & Crafts Community, The Next Chapter Bookshop is the city's only independent bookstore, offering a thoughtfully curated collection of books for readers of all ages. It’s a welcoming space where visitors can slow down, discover their next great read and experience the owners’ passion for connecting people with stories. Whether you're searching for a mountain-inspired novel to enjoy during your Smoky Mountain getaway or a unique gift, The Next Chapter perfectly captures the charm and hospitality that make Gatlinburg so special.

Courtesy of B. Weigmann. 

Our Place in Cosby

A must-stop when visiting the Smokies, Our Place in Cosby brings together books, coffee, and small-town charm in one unique destination. Friendly faces, a mix of new and used books including guides and stories about the Great Smoky Mountains, and a great cup of coffee make it the perfect place to linger before or after your mountain adventure.  

Courtesy of Chattanooga Tourism Co. 

Chattanooga’s Favorite Local Bookstores

Browse floor-to-ceiling shelves of used books while sipping craft cocktails, local beer, or coffee, all under vintage chandeliers and exposed brick at The Reading Room, Chattanooga’s first bar and used bookstore. A portion of every sale goes back to the Chattanooga Public Library Foundation. The Reading Room hosts book clubs, art classes, readings and more. “Read books. Stay curious,” is the motto of “The Book & Cover,” the independent bookstore set inside a converted old house—complete with a coffee bar, cozy reading nooks and a children’s section painted like a work of art. Winder Binder Mercantile is the city’s oldest independent bookseller. Part bookstore, part record shop and part folk art gallery, it’s a one-of-a-kind browse to pick up a book, record and piece of local art. Pennington’s Books opened in spring 2026, the Southside’s new indie bookshop with books, local art and plans for writing classes, children’s story times and book clubs.

A Treasure Trove of Independent Bookstores in Knoxville

Fable Hollow Coffee & Bookshoppe’s whimsical, storybook-inspired atmosphere feels like stepping into the pages of a favorite novel. It blends the charm of an independent bookstore with the comfort of a neighborhood coffee shop. Bookshop at The Bottom is an independent bookstore specializing in a carefully curated selection of literature written by Black authors, and serves as a writing space, tearoom, and gathering hub for writers, artists, and activists. Good Girl Books is a bookstore & mobile book truck that curates a selection of romance novels and book-themed goods. Addison's is an independent, used bookstore downtown specializing in rare and old books. Union Ave Books is known for its thoughtfully curated collection, author talks, book clubs, and community events that make it a gathering place for readers. 

Johnson’s Literary Depot in Johnson City

A staple in the downtown community, Johnson’s Literary Depot has new and used books, hosts community events, monthly book clubs covering many different genres, including local and regional authors, and a cookbook book club that ends in a potluck where people share their favorite recipes. The bookstore has a kids read free program that allows kids through age 12 to leave with a free book anytime they visit the store. Johnson’s Literary Depot has a simple mission to be good stewards of stories and the people who carry them.

White Pine Books in White Pine

A perfect, rainy day or relaxing escape when visiting Douglas Lake, White Pine Bookstore is a spacious, independently owned bookstore where readers are encouraged to slow down, browse the shelves, and discover their next great read. With a welcoming atmosphere and a book trade program, it's a favorite stop for avid readers and soon-to-be book lovers. 

Plenty Bookshop in Cookeville

Plenty Bookshop is a nonprofit community space where every purchase supports literacy initiatives and helps grow a love of reading. The bookshop is in the heart of historic downtown Cookeville, nestled in the gorgeous scenic Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. It features a hand-picked collection, inviting atmosphere, and year-round lineup of author events, book clubs, poetry nights, and workshops, making it a one-of-a-kind destination. Can’t decide what to read? Roll the dice in store to let the odds decide a recommendation for you.

The Storybook Cottage in Greenbrier

Browse new releases and timeless favorites while enjoying a menu of delightful teas, flavored coffees and more at this whimsical, independent bookstore. The Storybook Cottage is known for its welcoming literary-inspired nooks for readers of all ages, thoughtfully curated selection and unique events from performances in their theatre to craft nights and themed book drops. Every visit feels like stepping into a storybook adventure.

Raven Book Lounge in Brentwood

Pair your favorite new read with your favorite cocktail when you step into the Raven Book Lounge in Brentwood, where craft cocktails and overstuffed velvet chairs make a strong case for diving into a literary wonderland. From themed bites to hosting book clubs, step into your next chapter at The Raven.

Landmark Booksellers in Franklin

Step into Landmark Booksellers in historic downtown Franklin, and plan on staying a while. The charming, independent bookstore is the inspiration for Karen Kingsbury’s New York Times bestseller (and Hallmark movie) The Bridge. Landmark Booksellers is home to more than 60,000 titles from treasured classics to the latest releases, signed first editions, vintage magazines and sheet music, filling a building from 1808. It’s a spot where even the most decisive reader tends to show up for one book and leave with several.

The Bookshop in East Nashville

This cozy, woman-owned independent bookstore is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and thoughtfully curated selection The Bookshop, owned by Joelle Herr, reflects her background as a longtime book editor, with every title carefully chosen to create a unique browsing experience. The shop features a bright, minimalist design with natural light, clean wood accents, and beautifully displayed books spanning fiction, art, design, and more, making it an ideal spot to slow down, discover something new, and enjoy the neighborhood’s creative spirit.

Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. 

Parnassus Books in Nashville

Parnassus Books is the independent bookstore opened in 2011 by novelist Ann Patchett and her business partner, Karen Hayes. Parnassus stocks an exciting selection of books including fiction, non-fiction, an extensive local author selection, children’s, local interests, and the arts. In Greek mythology, Mount Parnassus was the home of literature, learning, and music. Nashville's Parnassus provides a haven for readers of all ages who share a love of the written word and a venue for writers to connect with readers, and for readers to connect with books. 

The Grand Exchange Bookstore in Murfreesboro

Browse the shelves, discover your next favorite read, and experience one of downtown Murfreesboro's local literary gems at The Grand Exchange Bookstore. Readers can also shop for plants and the perfect gifts. Locals can sign up for the Boro Book Club and in-store classes.

Beloved Independent Bookstores in Memphis

Novel Memphis is a locally owned and operated indie bookstore and a favorite, special place for the community. The cafe housed inside Novel is also a local favorite, Libro at Laurelwood, a modern European restaurant. Another beloved spot is Burke’s Bookstore, located in Cooper Young, and has been a family business for three generations. It’s one of the oldest independent bookstores in the country.

Velvet Volumes in Jackson

Slow down, sip some coffee, discover your next favorite read and connect with the local community. With thoughtfully selected titles, support for local authors and artists, and the opportunity to trade in gently loved books, Velvet Volumes creates a unique experience for readers to discover a story. 

The Happy Book Stack in McKenzie

The Happy Book Stack is a cozy community gathering place where great books, handcrafted coffee, and genuine hospitality come together. Whether you're browsing for your next favorite read, attending a family event, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, every visit at this locally owned shop feels welcoming and personal, and is a perfect place to slow down, browse and enjoy your time.

Brownsville Meeting Grounds in Brownsville

Brownsville Meeting Grounds in the heart of historic Brownsville is a gathering space where locals and visitors can enjoy handcrafted coffee while browsing the free "Take a Book. Leave a Book" community library. Tucked into the seating area, guests are encouraged to swap books, discover a new favorite author or simply relax with a great read. It’s a destination where stories and community are shared one cup at a time.

Courtesy of Groups Today.

Main photo courtesy of Maeteu Reiter.