If you are a book lover who is in New York City, then you must pay a visit to the Barnes & Noble Bookstore at Union Square along East 17th Street. This bookstore is a wonderland for those who appreciate books and you can easily spend an hour or two browsing through the books for sale.
Barnes & Noble Bookstore Opposite from Union Square, New York City
Barnes & Noble needs no introduction. It is one of the largest book sellers in the world. In this day and age, it is a delight to be able to pay a visit to a physical bookstore and have the opportunity to browse through shelves instead of browsing through an online catalog.
The Barnes & Noble bookstore at the northern end of Union Square is a wonderful place for those who love tomes to spend some time. It is also the biggest Barnes & Noble store with a great selection of books and the biggest bookstore in Manhattan.
Housed in a four-storey building, the bookstore has everything that bookworms could ask for. These range from the latest bestsellers to rare and hard to find books.
On the first floor, you will find plenty of the latest titles from best selling authors.
Once you have spent enough time on the ground floor, there are three more to explore. Take the escalator up to the next floor of the book store. Each of the floors are divided into sections and themes.
The second floor is where you will find one of the most popular areas of the Barnes & Noble bookstore at Union Square, the cafe. The Barnes & Noble cafe is run by Starbucks. Even though it is large, it is always busy. But if you are lucky enough, you may be able to find a seat close to the large windows that look out over Union Square.
Pick up a beverage and a dessert if you please and take a seat to find out why the Barnes & Noble cafe is so popular.
Up on the third floor of the bookstore, there is a sizable children’s section. You will also come across more than just books because there are also toys and gifts for sale within the bookstore.
On the fourth floor, there are more books for sale along with stationary like note books and other useful material.
Helpful Staff & Events
Something that sets the bookstore apart from others, or simply browsing online, are the helpful staff. If you cannot find a book, you can approach the staff and they will be able to help you to locate the book that you wish to find.
Also, be sure to head to their website for the latest information on events and book signings. Authors often make appearances at this book store, typically at the event space on the top floor, to promote their latest tome and there are also events held, especially for children, throughout the year. The events can be popular and you may also have to book tickets in advance if you wish to attend them.
Classic New York City Bookstore Experience
It is an absolutely gorgeous store and one that you will not tire of visiting. Whether you are in search of books, vinyls or a gift, you will be spoilt for choice at this Barnes & Noble bookstore. The ambiance of the bookstore is amazing and you also can’t beat its Manhattan location, just opposite from Union Square.
If you are a bookworm or just someone who appreciates books, this Barnes & Noble store is a must-visit while in Manhattan, New York City. You will not regret paying a visit. Plus, after you are done, you can also just walk across the street to pay a visit to Union Square as well.
Where: 33 East 17th Street, Manhattan, NY, 10003
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