Bards Alley Bookshop

Josh Gravholt

I really like their staff pics integrated onto the shelves. It really adds a personal, homey, and charming element to the display. They have a great curated selection and the neighborhood is spectacular.

A.T.

I’ve tried to support this bookstore whenever I’m in the area. It’s super cute and warm inside and the young, seasonal booksellers are really kind. However, the few times I’ve come in the employees that I assume work there most of the time are not as warm as the environment the store exudes. There were moments where I’ve visited, made eye contact with an employee first coming in, said hello, and was not greeted in return. That’s fine, but when they proceed to help every other customer that comes in except yourself it starts to feel exclusive. I get that Vienna is going to cater to a mostly white audience, but when you observe that you’re the only POC in the store and are not being treated with the same service, it tends to leave a bad taste in one’s mouth. I hope they can practice what some of the books that they sell teach in the future— inclusivity.

Taylor Callsen

Absolutely amazing service. Will be shopping here again. Helped look up a hard to find book for 15+ minutes and figure out a way to get it. Truly uplifting experience.

Rachel Keith

This bookstore has an amazing selection - much more up-and-coming authors, many more POC authors, and books I haven't seen elsewhere. Their events are great as well. Definitely recommend for fellow bookworms :)