Unoppresive, Non-Imperialist Bargain Books

6o's counterculture types never seem to stray far from their original obsessions (i.e., comic books, Che, tarot cards, Tantric sex, Art Nouveau), and Unoppresive has a pretty reliable selection of these kinds of books. They remain a great bookstore however by transcending these topics and branching further out into a wide range of subjects. And no matter what your politics are, you can't argue with the prices. No empire building here; the markups on these books can only just cover the rent in this beautiful, pricey West Village neighborhood. Plus: Don't be scared to head back into the dungeon-like kid's book area, it's actually pretty good.

Strand Kiosks

Reminiscent of the green wooden bouquinist stands that line the Left Bank in Paris, the Strand Kiosks at Central Park offer a nice selection of used & reduced-price new books to take strolling down the leafy colonnade of Poet's Lane, or on your rowboat in The Lake. The kiosks are open May through October, weather permitting. Plus: They even take credit cards, thanks to hand held machines also reminiscent of Paris restaurants.

Barnes & Noble- Union Square

In many parts of the country, a big chain store like Barnes & Noble seems like a bland, monolithic mall store, stomping out the charming little guys with overblown, cookie-cutter architecture and ever-changing, minimally book-wise staff. But here in New York, it's nice to be able to do a little one-stop shopping sometimes. B&N started in New York & it kinda feels like the hometown spot; it suits the scale and demands of New York, offers free same day delivery in Manhattan, and, with locations going out of business all over the city, it almost feels like an underdog these days. For those who turn their noses up at huge chain stores like Barnes and Noble, read this. Those who can see the value will enjoy the massive cast iron columns, 4 floors of books (not a matter of a narrow space, each floor is sprawling), and generous "sit down anywhere on the floor" policy that gives it a distinctly casual air. Plus: Some of the biggest author readings anywhere.

Urban Center Books

Located in the leafy courtyard premises of the Villard Houses (the storied, long-time home of publishers Random House), Urban Center Books is a jewel box of books and journals on architecture and design. Stacked to the ceilings with nearly impossible to find titles, this airy, be-laddered shop turns browsing into a visual education. Plus: Urban Center events will put you at the center of discussion on architectural matters in the city.

Books of Wonder

Books of Wonder is New York City's oldest and largest independent children's bookstore, as well as the city's leading specialist in children's literature both new and old. They feature a gallery of rare and original prints and illustrations from classic children's books in the back of the store, along with a beautiful assortment of vintage kid's books. Plus: The in-house Cupcake Cafe provides the preferred stimulants for all ages: caffeine for parents and frosting for the kids!

Books Kinokuniya

The New York arm of Japanese chain Books Kinokuniya recently moved from a murky and strangely laid out Rockefeller Center location to a bright, open 3 level space across from Bryant Park. Always an amazing source for Japanese magazines covering every subject imaginable (in obsessive and unimaginable detail), Kinokuniya also carries massive amounts of manga, toys, stationary, and books in every field. They've also a added a sunny cafe. Plus: Check out the great denim aprons on the staff, with pockets for everything a bookseller might need.

Posman Books

So, you say you just missed the 12:20 to Beacon, and now you've got some time to kill? You say you wish you had brought some reading about Andy Warhol or the Hudson Valley to prepare you for your trip? You say you don't think Hudson News is going to have the books you want? You think you're out of luck, being in the middle of Grand Central Station? Well, this is your day. Posman Books is not only a huge independent (and quite literary) bookstore located right in the station, they also have an inventory that any bookstore would be proud of, including surprisingly comprehensive cooking, children's, and art sections. Plus: Heading to Grandma's upstate? Posman has gift wrapping, as well as a large selection of gifts.

McNally Robinson

Leave it to a small Canadaian chain to create one of the best independent bookstores in New York City. McNally Robinson suits Nolita quite nicely. The store feels young, together, and alive. Proudly literary, the events here are much more "book-nerdish" than most, and the merchandise is shown off in a way that tells you everything about the store's priorities. They also carry a smallish, but intelligently curated selection of magazines. Plus: A lovely teahouse/cafe makes an evening here something like a night out.


Note: McNally Robinson is now McNally Jackson, their link is here.

Traveler's Choice Books

The offices of Turon Travel in Soho house a quite respectable travel bookshop. Not only can you find guides and maps for every corner of the Earth, you can also get the trip planned for you. Turon specializes in art fair travel, so they also carry a great back-issue selection of Art Basel Catalogues. Plus: an extensive selection travel accessories make for one stop shopping.

Taschen

All the Taschen titles, all under one Philippe Starck designed roof. This wildy colorful store reflects the personality of German publisher Taschen's art & design book style. Big, bold, and daring. Plus: An ever-changing gallery downstairs featuring originals of photography pulished in Taschen's books. As well as peices from the publisher's personal furniture collection. (Note the well worn leather Egg chair.)

192 Books

192 BOOKS in Chelsea is a general-interest new-books bookstore featuring key works of literature and history, art and criticism, the social and natural sciences, travel and children's books, and more. Plus: you can lounge in lovely vintage Prouvé furniture.