Good bookstores abound in Midcoast Maine

In our opinion, one of the best indicators of a community’s quality of life is that it offers an independent bookstore. So a community that offers up more than one good bookstore is really doing something right!

Here’s a list of our favorite local bookstores, from Rockland up the coast to Belfast. Whether you want a good beach read or just want to while away a foggy Maine summer day, each of these shops is well worth a visit.

Camden

Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe, 33 Bayview St., Camden. This beloved bookstore has been a fixture in downtown Camden since 1970. Owners Craig and Maggie offer up a diverse and interesting selection of books, including local authors, as well as a cozy cafe.

Rockland

hello hello books, 316 Main St., Rockland. Recently a top-five finalist for Publishers Weekly’s Bookstore of the Year! Owner Lacy Simons mixes new and used books in a small but dynamic, well curated, user-friendly space.

Belfast

Bella Books, 31 Pendleton St., Belfast. In a funky old building in downtown Belfast, this enticing space offers up new and used books, as well as antiques and other collectibles, and a cafe.

Left Bank Books, 109 Church St., Belfast. One of our favorite bookstores anywhere! The women who own and run this excellent shop know their books and offer a diverse, up-to-date, intelligent selection of titles, including a strong Maine author section. Also offers a popular author series in non-pandemic times.