Bookstores with Unique Backstories

Overlooking busy West 39^th Street, Prospero’s Books specializes in used books, CDs and vinyl, all packed into a cozy three-story building.

Funky chairs are scattered throughout the store so that shoppers can get comfy with a book of their choice (including hard-to-find editions), plus a café on the third floor makes Prospero’s an ideal location for booklovers to spend an afternoon reading.

It isn’t unusual for local bookstores to feature author readings and discussions. However, Rainy Day Books rewards readers from January through December with more than 300 Author Events per year.

Located at the Fairway Shops in Mission, Rainy Day Books has been serving the Kansas City community for more than 40 years, and thanks to international acclaim for its service, knowledge and commitment, the bookseller is a can’t-miss destination for book lovers.

Afterword Tavern & Shelves combines two complementary pastimes: reading and enjoying local drinks.

Search the carefully curated shelves of its new Midtown location for your next engrossing read and pair it with wine, craft beer or spirits in this unique gathering spot.

Bliss Books & Wine puts careful thought toward curating a community of readers through virtual events, book clubs and pairings with local wine partners. As an entirely virtual environment with plans for a physical location in the future, the shop’s dedication to connecting those who love good books and good drinks is accessible to readers everywhere.

Visitors who can’t wait until the next superhero movie comes out can rest easy thanks to Elite Comics and its wide selection of new and used comics, graphic novels, statues and other merchandise.

Located in Overland Park, Elite Comics hosts tons of in-store and offsite events each year and an active, inclusive community great for lively discussion and making new friends.

A new venture by the team behind Westport’s popular Mills Record Company, Wise Blood Booksellers occupies a cozy corner spot in the same neighborhood. The store’s shelves are lined with new and used books, offering something for every reader, including a healthy selection of local authors.

Shop books, new and used, plants, stationery, records, gifts and more at this bookstore and plant shop in Downtown Overland Park. Recently expanded and voted Best Bookstore in Kansas City’s Best of KC awards, Monstera’s Books is a neighborhood favorite that offers plenty to browse beyond its bookshelves.

Just a few blocks away, The Inked Page is Kansas City’s first bookstore dedicated to mystery, horror and true crime. Browse an extensive collection of suspenseful novels, chilling tales and real-life mysteries, then return after hours for book clubs, craft nights, murder mystery parties and other community events.