The Indie Bob Spot: The Corner Bookstore

The Corner Bookstore - New York, NY

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If you picture the stereotypical, big city, corner bookstore, this place is aptly named. This is a small, one-level independent located on the Upper Eastside of Manhattan. On the week day afternoon of my visit this place was busy, energetic, and happenin'. I have a feeling this was business as usual. Here at The Corner Bookstore, its been business as usual for 36 years. After talking to Nick, the manager, I see no reason why this great indie can't enjoy continued success for years to come.

This place is a classic, square-roomed bookstore. Very neat and well organized. Business is going well here, according to Nick. It's going so well that they offer very few sidelines and are able to do quite nicely just selling books. They have great local support and there are many schools nearby so that definitely helps their business. This indie has the advantage of being located in a densely populated urban area, something that few other indies are able to claim. With that advantage and their great staff, that's a recipe for a successful bookstore.

This store also offers free delivery throughout most of the Upper Eastside. A great perk for busy locals or homebound individuals. They have a children's section right in the middle of the store and it really makes a perfect kids' fort with the surrounding book shelves. The Corner Bookstore is active with many author events as well and can easily clear out the center of the store to create a great area for these events.

Nick was great to meet and talk to, especially since they were so busy during my visit. Before this property became a bookstore 36 years ago, it was a pharmacy. Much of the original "guts" of that business are still here. For you cat lovers, this indie is home to a cat. Located on very busy Madison Ave., I would worry about the cat slipping out the front door but Nick says the cat has no interest in that.

So if you live on the Upper Eastside of Manhattan and haven't visited this store, you're making a big mistake. Heck, you don't even have to get off your butt to buy a book there since they offer free delivery! Make a point to visit this gem and enjoy a great time at a terrific bookstore with a great staff. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING: The Daughters Of Mars, Thomas Keneally. Still plugging away.

RECENTLY PURCHASED: My Brilliant Friend, Elena Ferrante. Looks good but into the pile it goes to wait its turn.

A great display in the left front window.

Just inside the front door looking toward the rear. What you see is what you get.

Inside the front door looking to the right.

Have a seat here at the front of the store and try out a book.

Not many sidelines here but they do have some greeting cards.

Inside the front door looking to the left. The center area surrounded by short bookshelves is the children's section. I would totally make this my fort if I were a little guy!