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City Cast Salt Lake

Shelby Hintze

It may be a slow burn but American’s love for small bookshops is intensifying, just like the tension in a one-bed-roadtrip-enemies-to-lovers plotline. The American Booksellers Association says more than 

600 bookstores opened across the country last year

, double the number of new shops from the year before, and membership in the association is the 

These shops provide not only great reading material but community through events, knowledgeable staff, and general third-space-ness. Here are some of our favorites — by trope, of course.

: The Legendarium is a fantasy and science fiction-focused bookstore, where every visit feels like stepping into another realm. Beyond shelves of epic fantasy, sci-fi, and horror, the shop hosts author events, book clubs, game nights, writing groups, and community gatherings that bring readers together. Grab a themed drink from the café, settle in with your next adventure, and discover why it's become a hub for Utah's fantasy-loving community.

: If you’re on a long journey south, take a side quest to Poppy’s Books in Spanish Fork. The store features genre-themed rooms, hidden miniature scenes, fairy gardens, and cozy reading nooks that could hold you captive all day if you aren’t careful. Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair-accessible. If you need wheelchair access and fairy gardens, you can come to my house.

: The longest-running comic shop in Utah, Dr. Volt’s Comics & Games has been a Salt Lake City staple for comic book fans, gamers, and pop culture enthusiasts for decades. Browse new and vintage comics, graphic novels, manga, collectibles, tabletop games, and trading cards, then stick around for regular events like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Dungeons & Dragons, and board game nights.

: Under the Umbrella Bookstore & Café is Utah's first LGBTQ+ bookstore. It offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books, coffee, and gifts in a welcoming, inclusive space. Beyond the shelves, it hosts author events, book clubs, workshops, and community gatherings.

: An independent bookstore mainstay in Salt Lake for nearly 50 years, The King’s English has a story for everyone and an event for every type of reader, from book clubs, to author conversations, to storytime. This is the place you think of when you think of a quintessential, cozy, local bookstore.

: Hear me out on this one. Jo would have loved the expanse of different romance genres available today, and all of them are available at Lovebound. Queer romance, enemies to lovers, a strong, independent woman wooed by an equal partner … just don’t let Laurie near the friends-to-lovers section.

Utah's Best Independent Bookstores

Independent, Niche Bookstores on the Rise

Keep It Local

Sign up for Keep It Local from City Cast Salt Lake

 was founded by award-winning editor, publisher, and romance author Olivia Nightingale to amplify books by and about the African diaspora. One of Utah's first Black-owned bookstores and publishing companies, it has quickly become a destination for readers seeking diverse voices, fresh perspectives, and stories that aren't always easy to find on traditional bookstore shelves.

Although Crowne Books is currently operating through online sales and pop-up events while working toward opening a permanent Salt Lake City storefront, it has already become an active part of 

 since its founding just this year. The bookstore regularly participates in community markets, Juneteenth celebrations, banned book fairs, author events, and literacy initiatives, bringing books directly to readers across the state.

 to help establish Utah's first permanent Black-owned bookstore, with plans that include a future bookmobile and a brick-and-mortar location.

Its carefully curated selection spans romance, fantasy, science fiction, mystery, children's literature, memoirs, history, and nonfiction, with an emphasis on Black authors and independent publishers. Whether you're looking for a bestselling novel, an inspiring memoir, or a children's book featuring characters who reflect a wider range of experiences, Crowne Books offers something for every reader.

Utah's First Black-Owned Permanent Bookstore

From Pop-Ups to a Permanent Home: Crowne Books’ Big Literary Vision

In August, there are three kinds of people:

People who have finished back-to-school shopping weeks ago.

People with a corporate office job who just really love school supplies (🙋🏼‍♀️)

I love strolling the back-to-school sections at the big box stores as much as the next person. But sometimes you need something a little more unique, or a better deal. It can be hard to find your everyday school supplies beyond the national chains, but it’s not impossible. AND you can do it without spending a fortune.

: This is what outlets used to be. NPS resells overstock, unclaimed, or slightly damaged goods at a fraction of the cost at its four locations in Utah. While you’ll never know exactly what is in stock, you can count on deals on just about any category of merchandise you’re looking for. And through Aug. 15, they’ll have even deeper discounts on some of the most sought after back-to-school/end-of-summer items.

: If your goal this school year is to build your at-home library, Marissa’s has an incredible selection of new and used books, for kids and adults alike. Make sure to follow them on 

 and updates on their numerous “free kids books” days!

: This newly opened nonprofit brick-and-mortar helps your wallet and the earth by reselling donated craft supplies. While not your traditional school supply shop, you’ll find plenty of useful items for at-school or at-home use. Think … projects.

 Need I say more? No, but I’m going to. This is the place to buy the planner that will for sure change your life this year. Probably. Maybe. It will at least be really, really cute. You can stock up on your new favorite ballpoint pen, a pencil case to put them in, and all the old school stickers by-the-roll your heart desires. Will the kids love it? Yes. Will you love it? Definitely.

: In another newsletter, I will extol the virtues of the Harmony fabric and yarn selection. But for our purposes today, we’re sticking with the shoppy-shop area of the Provo store. Think of fun notebooks, stickers, pens, bags for all your trinkets, and funky socks, keychains, and jewelry to start the new school year off in style. Now multiply it by like four. You should have learned that in third grade. Good. Now you see the vision. Worth the drive.

: Thwart the dreaded late-night run to the store in desperate search of poster board and cardstock. The Artist’s Corner in Orem features one of the best selections of art supplies locally, so stock up on those special items now.

: This locally owned business is a back-to-school lifesaver, offering printing, binding, laminating, presentation materials, poster printing, and school project supplies. Whether you're printing a research paper or assembling a science fair display, they've got students covered.

Back-to-school Shopping in Salt Lake For Every Budget

Back-to-School Shopping For Every Budget

Are you trying to be on your phone and computer less? Looking to embrace the caress of a sturdy pen and cold-pressed paper? Tucked away in Holladay, 

 is a longtime family-owned shop that has quietly become one of Utah's best-kept secrets for stationery lovers and pen nerds.

While Parry's carries all the practical office essentials — paper, notebooks, binders, printer ink, and school supplies — the real draw is its impressive fountain pen department. Shoppers can browse brands like Pilot, Lamy, and Caran d'Ache alongside dozens of bottled inks from Diamine, Iroshizuku, and more.

Premium notebooks from Clairefontaine, Midori, and Kokuyo complete the experience, making it a destination for anyone who still appreciates putting pen to paper.

Owner Kent Parry has earned something of a 

cult following among Utah's stationery enthusiasts 

for his encyclopedic knowledge, patient customer service, and genuine passion for the craft of writing. Whether you're a longtime collector or raising up the next generation of fountain pen aficionados, Kent takes the time to walk customers through different pen styles, inks, papers, and maintenance without a hint of pretension. He's known for encouraging shoppers to test pens before making a decision and for sharing stories and recommendations that reflect decades of experience in the business.

Many customers return not just for the products, but for the conversations, expertise, and confidence that comes from buying from someone who truly loves helping people find the right pen.

One thing to know before visiting: Parry's keeps limited hours. The shop is open weekdays only, with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, and is closed on weekends. That schedule can make it a little harder to visit, but regulars will tell you it's worth planning around.

Where to Buy Specialty Pens and Office Supplies in Salt Lake

Parry’s Office Supplies is for Analog Lovers

Recently on the City Cast Salt Lake podcast, the team shared their 

. While experiences are great, I also love a good trinket to remind me of a trip. So where should you shop for a Salt Lake souvenir, whether you're treating yourself or sending an out-of-towner home with a piece of Utah?

My favorite spot for the classic souvenir, but elevated. (Get it? 

 OK, moving on.) You'll find fine art and prints featuring Utah's natural beauty, locally made soaps and candles, and yes, the requisite magnet. The shop features work from more than 350 makers, most of them local, all of them small and independent. Wear your love for Salt Lake on your sleeve … or on your Stanley or your fridge.

Note: The 9th & 9th location is not wheelchair accessible, but the Fashion Place location in Murray is!

Another 9th & 9th favorite, Mochi Kids is packed with the funnest toys, clothes, games, and craft supplies to take back to the kids you're temporarily abandoning on your staycation. You may also end up with a sheet of stickers for yourself because vacation is about finding joy. And breaking news, 

You may recognize Mochi Kids from their screen-printed T-shirts at events like Craft Lake City. They've since grown into a full brick-and-mortar and online shop stocked with much more than tees, while continuing to support local printers and socially minded causes.

Think of it as the farmers market that never closes. With four locations across the valley, it's the easiest way to stock up on local favorites year-round: June Pie, Milk Honey yogurt, Cutler's Cookies (my personal champion in Utah's cookie wars, but that's a newsletter for another day), and dozens of other Utah-made treats.

If you want a souvenir you'll actually use, grab a bottle of Redmond Real Salt. It’s harvested from an 

 in Redmond, Utah, in Sevier County. Every pinch can transport you right back to your vacation.

Since 1997, Ken Sanders Rare Books has specialized in Utah history, Mormon studies, Western Americana, national parks, the Colorado River, and the literary West. Inside the old Leonardo Museum, browse three floors of new and used books, artwork, collectibles, and ephemera. Even if you leave empty-handed, it's worth wandering the stacks and imagining what treasures are hiding on the next shelf.

The Best Places to Buy Utah Souvenirs

Staycations Deserve Souvenirs, Too!

This is your friendly reminder that Mother’s Day is less than two weeks away (May 14!). Find a gift for Mom at one of these local shops:

 that houses a lot of local brands. Pick up a stained glass mushroom from 

. Topics range from cocktail-making to crafting cheese boards. They have online or in-person options.

. They both offer a variety of music genres, so you’re sure to find something that your gift recipient will love.

 has delicious soft serve, but they also have amazing merch, including beanies, sweatshirts, and socks. Bonus hot tip: They sell cool glass mugs and bags of coffee. If you ask nicely, they’ll probably even grind the beans for you.

Where’s your favorite spot to pick up a gift for a loved one?

Send me an email

A Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Tips and tricks for living your best Salt Lake City life, by locals, for locals.

Salt Lake Life Hacks

I asked you to write in about the best vintage/antique shops in Salt Lake. Here’s where to go for hidden treasures, vintage furniture, and tchotchkes galore:


“The Old Flamingo in Millcreek is the best.” - 

“Lilies of The Field is a wonderful shop with an awesome owner.” - 

“I love shopping vintage in SLC and there are a lot of great spots — Haight & Ashbury Home, Village Vintage Interiors, and Strawberry Mansion. If you’re an Instagram fiend, then hit up @Romysvintage, @slc.vintagegoods, and @floralhausvintage. All the peeps behind these handles are awesome and do really great work refinishing furniture.” - 

The Best Antique/Vintage Shops

Find the best of everything that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Salt Lake’s Best

Salt Lake's Best

This one goes out to all the last-minute shoppers. You know who you are.

 that houses a lot of local brands. Pick up a stained glass mushroom from Chelbie Glassworks, a hand printed tea towel from Kelsi Cross, or a whimsical vintage dress from Scoutt Shop. 

. They both offer a variety of music genres so you’re sure to find something that your gift recipient will love.

 has delicious soft serve but they also have amazing merch including beanies, sweatshirts, and socks. Bonus hot tip: They sell cool glass mugs and bags of coffee. If you ask nicely, they’ll probably even grind the beans for you.

shopping

Independent, Niche Bookstores on the Rise

From Pop-Ups to a Permanent Home: Crowne Books’ Big Literary Vision

Back-to-School Shopping For Every Budget

Latest articles

Independent, Niche Bookstores on the Rise

From Pop-Ups to a Permanent Home: Crowne Books’ Big Literary Vision

Back-to-School Shopping For Every Budget

Parry’s Office Supplies is for Analog Lovers

Staycations Deserve Souvenirs, Too!

A Mother’s Day Gift Guide

The Best Antique/Vintage Shops

Latest articles

Parry’s Office Supplies is for Analog Lovers

Staycations Deserve Souvenirs, Too!

A Mother’s Day Gift Guide

The Best Antique/Vintage Shops

Your Last-Minute Local Gift Guide