Patch Picks: Indie Bookstores

Have a hankering for a good read, but don't want to support the chain bookstores, or can't find a Borders? Check out this list of well-stocked local independent bookstores in your area: 

1.

True to its fairytale name, Bell's is a magical place to escape the pricey shops of University Avenue and indulge in a literary getaway. A neighborhood favorite since 1935, Bell's is family-run, has more than 500 subject categories and carries more than 150,000 high-quality new, used and hard-to-find books. Hours: Mon - Thu, 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Fri, 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sat, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Find it at: 536 Emerson St., Palo Alto, CA 94301

2.

Head toward the perennial "50% Off Entire Store" hand-painted sign on California Avenue and you'll find Know Knew Books, a hole-in-the-wall treasure chest of used books and audio books. Get comfy in an overstuffed chair with a lightly worn novel and their free WiFi, or bring a pile of books home for the kids. The shop often offers special events, from breakdancing to play workshops. Browse their selection of rare finds and signed copies. Hours: Mon - Sat, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun, 12-8 p.m. Find it at: 415 N. California Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94301

3.

Founded in 1955 and nearly closed more than once in its history, Kepler's in Menlo Park is now a thriving mecca of popular new and used books, fine stationary and periodicals. Kepler's often hosts author readings and book club meetings. Find new or more affordable used books shelved side by side, and check out Kepler's website, which is partnered with Google eBooks and enables customers to buy eBooks for their mobile devices. Compliment your browsing with a warm apple cider at the gourmet next door. Hours: Mon – Thu, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri and Sat, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Find it at: 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, CA 94025

4. 

"The West's Oldest Independent Bookseller" was founded in 1851, when Anton Roman struck it rich during the Gold Rush and opened up a bookstore. The store has been bought, sold, burned and rebuilt, and now there are several locations, including this one in the Town and Country Shopping Center. The bookseller features fiction, non-fiction, magazines and children's books. Book club meetings and book signings are also held in stores. Hours: Sun - Thu, 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.; Fri - Sat, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Find it at: 855 El Camino Real, Ste. 33, Palo Alto, CA 94301

5.

This cozy, family-owned shop in downtown Menlo Park offers new and used titles. The stock is always changing, so stop by on occasion to see what's in--from rare original editions to modern New York Times bestsellers. Hours: Mon - Sat, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sun, 12-5 p.m. Find it at: 1170 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, CA 94025