If you love books, then chances are you enjoy perusing the bookshelves of both bookstores and libraries. Perhaps you spend hours in a place, thumbing through the pages of a fascinating book. If this sounds like you and you haven’t yet been, the main Detroit Public Library on Woodward Ave. is a gorgeous institution that looks like it’s straight out of a book lover’s dream. Read on for more about this amazing library in Detroit, Michigan:

While there are numerous locations under the Detroit Public Library system, none of them are quite as exquisite as the main location on Woodward Ave.
Detroit Public Library/Facebook
The main branch is part of the city's Cultural Center Historic District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Detroit Public Library/Facebook
In 1865, the Detroit Public Library system was first established. In 1921, the main public library on Woodward Ave. was built and has maintained many of its historical architectural elements over the years.
Detroit Public Library/Facebook
When this library was built, it was constructed with marble, giving it a rich and elegant look. One visit here and you may never want to leave.
Detroit Public Library/Facebook
Due to a growing population, the main library's wings and 240,000 square feet of space were added in 1963. At this point, the library doubled in size.
Detroit Public Library/Facebook
You could easily spend an entire day here walking around, marveling at the architecture, and choosing the next books you would like to read.
Detroit Public Library/Facebook
And maybe you'll even find yourself a cozy nook to sit and read for a while.

Have you ever been to this library? If you have, what did you think? Give us your opinion in the comments. To learn more, including location, hours of operation, and events, visit Detroit Public Library’s website and Facebook page.

If you prefer bookstores, check out John K. King, Used & Rare Books. This is the largest rare bookstore in Detroit.

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Detroit Public Library

Sarah M. | March 28, 2023

What are some other places for book lovers in Detroit?

Detroit is for book lovers, it seems, with lots of places sure to thrill bookworms young and old! Some of our favorite book-centered day trips in Michigan include:

  • John K King Used & Rare Books. If you are in search of a unique and amazing book, then this rare bookstore in Detroit may be your best bet at finding hidden treasures. John K King Used & Rare Books offers a selection of over one million different titles! You’ll want to spend the whole day wandering around this awe-inspiring place. This bookstore boasts a collection of more than one million books. You’ll find four stories of books at the downtown location of this amazing store. There's even a Rare Book Room where you might discover some true literary treasures!
  • Paper Trail Books - Royal Oak. Just a few miles north of downtown Detroit, you'll find the charming town of Royal Oak and the charming bookstore called Paper Trail Books. The bookstore was opened in 2017 and is owned and operated by brothers (and avid book collectors!) Scott and Dave Brown. It specializes in used books, but also carries new titles by local authors. Although it’s a small shop, the store carries a large selection: over 10,000 titles on any and all subjects, from fiction to sports to history, with the inventory updated on a regular basis. And for prices lower than where you’d find them anywhere else! So if you see something you like, grab it, because it might not be there the next time you visit.

 

What are the best bookstores in Michigan?

Book stores might becoming more of a rarity these days, but not in Michigan. Looking for the best bookstores in Michigan? Check out these spots:

  • Beloved Books - Linden. This hidden treasure is nothing short of a dream come true for those who appreciate gently used books and vintage vibes. After all, there are thousands of new and pre-loved titles to browse within the store. Upon stepping inside, you’ll notice a sense of warmth and welcoming at Beloved Books. Brick walls, hardwood flooring, and timeless decor add to the shop’s unique and decidedly cozy atmosphere -- and, of course, there's that "book smell" here you simply can't find anywhere else!
  • Jellybean’s Used Books, Music and Video - Owosso. For media of all varieties, head to this treasure of a book shop in Owosso. Throughout the decades, Jellybean’s has operated multiple locations throughout the area, initially opening its doors in 1977. Today, only the Owosso store remains. When you arrive here, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a wonderland of vintage charm. No matter what you’re hunting for, you’ll find it at Jellybean’s -- and then some!
  • Dawn Treader Book Shop - Ann Arbor. If you’re a bookworm, you’ve undoubtedly checked out some of Michigan’s most wonderful literary shops. From large book retailers to family-owned gems, there’s no shortage of destinations for voracious readers throughout the Great Lakes State. One of Michigan’s best bookstores, though, is also it’s most unique. You could easily spend hours browsing the impressive selection at this fun spot. This incredible shop in the heart of Michigan’s most famous college town is ideal for Michiganders who crave a healthy dose of book-inspired adventure.

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5201 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, USA