The Strand Bookstore, nestled in the East Village of New York, is a literary haven with a history as colorful as its shelves are packed. Founded in 1927 by Benjamin Bass, the store originally started on Fourth Avenue among what was known as "Book Row," a six-block area housing nearly 50 bookstores. Today, it's one of the last remnants of that era, boasting the mantra of "18 Miles of Books."
The Strand isn't just a bookstore; it's a New York institution. Its current location at 828 Broadway has been its home since 1957. The store is still family-owned, now run by Nancy Bass Wyden, Benjamin's granddaughter.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- Treasure Trove: The Strand houses approximately 2.5 million books, making it one of the largest independent bookstores in the world.
- Rare Books: The Rare Book Room is a must-see, featuring first editions, signed copies, and other literary treasures.
- Famous Visitors: Celebrities like David Bowie, Patti Smith, and Bob Dylan have been known to browse its aisles.
- Film Cameos: The Strand has made appearances in movies like "Julie & Julia" and "Six Degrees of Separation."
- Book Buying: The store is renowned for its book-buying counter, where anyone can sell their used books. It’s a well-known haunt for collectors and book lovers looking to make some extra cash.
Hidden Gems
- Basement Bargains: Don’t miss the basement, which is packed with discounted books. It's a treasure hunt every time you go down those stairs.
- Events and Readings: The Strand regularly hosts author readings, book signings, and other literary events. It’s a great place to meet your favorite authors.
- Book Kiosks: If you stroll around the city, you might find one of Strand's book kiosks. The most famous one is in Central Park.
Quirky Details
- Staff Picks: The staff at the Strand are book aficionados, and their recommendations are worth checking out. Look for the "Staff Picks" section for some hidden literary gems.
- Strand Tote Bags: The iconic Strand tote bags are a staple among New Yorkers and tourists alike. They’re not just practical but a fashion statement!
- Blind Date with a Book: For the adventurous reader, the Strand offers “Blind Date with a Book,” where you buy a book wrapped in paper with only a few hints about its content. It’s a fun way to discover new reads.
The Strand is more than just a bookstore; it's a slice of New York's literary history and a paradise for book lovers.