Sitting underneath a blanket with a cup of hot tea and a good book while the snow falls outside is the perfect way to spend a winter afternoon. With Amazon’s Kindle and Barnes & Noble’s Nook, there are plenty of options to read online, yet nothing beats the feel of an actual book in your hands. That’s why these bookstores remain staples throughout the First State.
Looking for your next great read? Here’s a guide to new and used bookstores around Delaware.
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2nd & Charles
Newark
This new and used bookshop in Newark has everything from manga to vinyl to collectibles and more. With locations across the country, it’s a popular space for book lovers and pop-culture fiends alike.
Around Again & Again Books
Wilmington
A used bookstore with employees who are passionate about both reading and the environment, this Wilmington shop’s mission is to keep books out of landfills. Donate your gently used books to give them a new life and receive a discount on your book purchase.
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Bethany Beach Books
Bethany Beach
Established in 1991, Bethany Beach Books is located right off the boardwalk and carries all the beach reads you could ever need. With an independent author program, book clubs and more, this shop is a vacation dream. Looking for a more consistent source of page-turners? Join the Book Drop subscription program to receive a vetted surprise each month.
Between Books
Claymont
Love getting lost in the worlds of elves, mythical beasts and the like? This eclectic used bookstore in Claymont specializes in books like science fiction, fantasy and horror.

Biblion Used Books and Rare Finds
Lewes
This gem in the quaint, historic town of Lewes is perfect for anybody craving something unique and quirky. Along with antiquarian reads, Biblion (“little book” in Greek) also carries stationery and greeting cards, original art and clever literary-themed gifts. Biblion hosts and supports local authors and often partners with other local shops.
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Browseabout Books
Rehoboth Beach
Want a magical bookshop experience? Head to Browseabout in Rehoboth Beach, opened by the Crane family in 1975 and since transformed into a one-stop shop for all things bookish. Here you’ll find over 35,000 titles and a brilliant selection of toys, games, puzzles, gifts and stationery, not to mention other novelties like saltwater taffy. Enjoy a cup of Browseabout coffee while you browse. Look for the exterior painted with a vibrant literary mural as well.
Comicmania
Wilmington
In the mood for a nostalgic adventure? Wilmington’s Comicmania is a top pick for comic books in the First State. If you want to immerse yourself in an epic, beautifully illustrated fantasy world, Comicmania is also the premier destination for Magic the Gathering card gaming supplies.
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The Crafty Reader
Milford
This brand-new independent bookstore opened in August of 2024 in Milford. Offering a variety of new and used books, the store also carries a selection of handmade goods by local artisans.
The Hockessin Bookshelf
Hockessin
Founded in 2002, this new and used shop in Hockessin carries a bit of everything, but its largest sections are romance, mystery, children’s literature and fiction. Also find a selection of audiobooks through a partner, Libro.fm, and score discounts and store credit by donating your own gently used books. “For us, the Shop Local movement is a way of life, and our store’s health is dependent on the health of our neighbors,” the website reads, also noting many events, readings and collaborations with local groups like Delaware Nature Society and Woodside Farm Creamery. Stop by on the second Saturday of every month for a buy one, get one free sale for used books.

Huxley & Hiro
Wilmington
This locally-owned independent bookstore is nestled between the other charming storefronts and restaurants of Wilmington’s Market Street. Huxley & Hiro (named for the co-founders’ beloved pets) carries fiction and nonfiction, the newest releases and various gifts and other items. The store operates not only as a bookstore, but also a venue to showcase local artists, musicians and writers. With rotating exhibits and local works of literature, Huxley & Hiro is a must-visit for book enthusiasts in Wilmington.
Mejah Bookstore
Claymont
As a family-owned and -operated store, Claymont’s Mejah Bookstore specializes in novels written by people of color to promote racial pride. There is a diverse inventory with more than a million titles and genres from which guests can choose.
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Taino Studios
Dover
This socially conscious bookstore and creative studio is a unique space filled with rare books and titles by authors of color. Directly next door is the studio of in-house artist Justin Williams, known as Taino, who specializes in photography and psychological and Afrocentric art. Proceeds from book and art sales go toward reducing mass incarceration in Dover.
The Dollar Book Shuffle
Laurel
All readers know that while it’s amazing to get lost in the world of fantastical creatures and romantic getaways, it can be costly. That’s why The Dollar Book Shuffle in Laurel sells all its used books for a dollar. With more than 25,000 books from which to choose, visitors have plenty of reading materials at their fingertips.
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Turning Pages Book Lounge
Millville
Open Thursday through Monday, Turning Pages Book Lounge recently moved into its new location in Millville. This quaint little store offers readers a chance to become consumed with everything from historical fiction to romance, mysteries and thrillers. Plus, select from records, comics, quirky book art, puzzles, games and more.
Know of any other used bookstores in the First State? Email editorial@delawaretoday.com to let us know!
Related: This Bethany Beach Bookstore Shares Tales Worldwide by Mail