Reading is such a versatile and engaging activity which can be enjoyed nearly anywhere. If you’re in search of a new read, stop in one of Durango’s bookstores to find one (or a few)!
Maria’s Bookstore
Maria’s Bookshop is one of downtown Durango’s staple stores and has been a locally owned independent book store since 1984. Their handmade wooden shelves are stocked with over 40,000 books across all genres including comic books, youth, cookbooks, music, fiction, non-fiction, travel, and a special Southwest Colorado section. There are also notebooks, cards, calendars, toys, glasses, and other fun knick knack items. Their knowledgeable and inclusive staff offer wonderful service and book recommendations. Events such as reading groups, author events, poetry open mic nights, and more are hosted at the store throughout the year.
The newest addition to the shop is the Maria’s Literacy Foundation which aims to expand access to books, protect the right to books, and foster a love of reading and partnership with the community. Through volunteer hours, monetary and book donations, they share the power of reading with many local organizations. Their new Reading Room on E. College Drive and Main Avenue provides a youth-oriented space to read and relax. Free to enjoy, there are books to indulge in (and take home!), as well as writing oriented creative resources.
Y.E.S.S. The Book Hutch
Located half a block off of Main Avenue on 9th Street, Y.E.S.S. The Book Hutch is smaller, yet chalk full of books. There are plenty of choices from best sellers to local and independent authors. Non-fiction, fiction, and children’s literature are just some of the genres offered here.
Second Story Books
Also just off Main Avenue on 9th Street, Second Story Books provides a huge selection of used, rare, and out-of-print books. The two-story shop has rooms dedicated to fiction, non-fiction, children's, biographies, cookbooks, travel, and more. While their stock varies, it adds to the excitement of finding a new favorite book. Giving books a second (or third) home makes the prices more affordable and creates opportunities to find hidden and valuable gems.
The Durango Public Library
Although primarily a lending library, the Durango Public Library also is home to Lela’s Bookstore which is run by the FRIENDS of the Library. Through selling used books at reasonable prices, these funds go back into the library to purchase new books, offer more programs, and meet more community needs.
Between great books, local authors, independent bookstores, and beautiful places to read, Durango is a lovely place to enjoy literature. Please let Max and Deven know if you have any questions about more community reading programs or opportunities.
