Mercer St Books & Records
A compact SoHo haven packed with used literary fiction, nonfiction, and a curated selection of vinyl LPs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Mercer St Books & Records
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A compact SoHo haven packed with used literary fiction, nonfiction, and a curated selection of vinyl LPs.
"You will love this place. It has such a rich selection of books for all genres."
🎯 Allow ample browsing time
You could spend hours here! Take your time to explore every nook and cranny for hidden treasures.
💰 Great value for money
Expect most books to be under $10, with many hardcover gems for $6-$8.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Used Book Selection
Main shop floor
Discover a rich variety of genres and topics, from history and biography to fiction and vintage finds.
Vinyl Record Collection
Dedicated record section
Flip through a selection of LPs, including unique finds and classic records.
Affordable Prices
All sections
Many books are priced under $10, making it easy to stock up on new reads.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive into a Literary Treasure Trove
Uncover Hidden Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Allow ample browsing time
You could spend hours here! Take your time to explore every nook and cranny for hidden treasures.
💰 Great value for money
Expect most books to be under $10, with many hardcover gems for $6-$8. +1
📚 Organization can be quirky
Philosophy sections might be spread out. Embrace the hunt for unique finds!
🎶 Don't forget the vinyl
There's a solid selection of records to flip through alongside the books.
Favorite Bookstores in Manhattan?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Allow ample browsing time
You could spend hours here! Take your time to explore every nook and cranny for hidden treasures.
💰 Great value for money
Expect most books to be under $10, with many hardcover gems for $6-$8. +1
📚 Organization can be quirky
Philosophy sections might be spread out. Embrace the hunt for unique finds!
🎶 Don't forget the vinyl
There's a solid selection of records to flip through alongside the books.
😊 Friendly and helpful staff
The staff are often described as lovely and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mercer St Books & Records for its vast selection of affordable used books and its charming, eclectic atmosphere. Many find unique literary gems and enjoy the added bonus of a vinyl record collection. While some note the organization can be a bit unconventional, the overall experience is highly positive, with many planning return visits.
"Philosophy was mostly split up in a confusing way and spread around the store. There’s a fair amount here but it is confusingly organized and mostly secondary literature. There might be good finds from time to time but it seems pretty picked through. Communism and revolutionary literature is practically nonexistent."
Maya O
"That I LOVED THIS PLACE! It has such a rich selection of books for all genres. I particularly enjoyed the sections on history and biography/memoirs. There was a bunch of books that I had never heard about that I picked up and look forward to reading. Their books are in good condition and even appear barely used or new for many. Most of the books are under $10 ($6-$8 range). And the staff are super helpful. Just a heads up, you will want to buy more books than you need. I'll definitely be back here whenever I'm in town."
Narcisse Kunda
"Awesome independent bookstore stocked with vintage books and records. I’ve found so many unique items here on my periodic visits, including hard to find 70s reprints of Cold War action novels in pristine condition for $5 a piece. You can easily spend an hour flipping through all the records, which I’ve done on several occasions. Worth a visit if you’re in the NYU area!"
Damien Bassman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mercer St Books & Records is located at 206 Mercer St, New York, NY 10012. It's easily accessible via the NYC subway system. The closest stations are Prince Street (N, R, W trains) and Broadway-Lafayette Street (B, D, F, M trains), both a short walk away.
Street parking in SoHo can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach the store.
The bookstore is situated in the vibrant SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, known for its shopping, art galleries, and historic cast-iron architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Mercer St Books & Records. It's a free-to-enter independent bookstore.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the store is open daily. It's always a good idea to check their social media or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
There is no admission fee to browse the extensive collection of used books and vinyl records at Mercer St Books & Records.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a rich selection of used literary fiction and nonfiction, with many visitors highlighting history, biography, and memoirs. While some sections might be organized unconventionally, the variety is impressive. +1
Yes, many reviewers mention finding unique, hard-to-find titles and vintage editions, especially in fiction and older reprints.
The atmosphere is often described as cozy and inviting, a place where you can easily spend hours browsing. It's a classic independent bookstore vibe.
Absolutely! In addition to books, the store has a dedicated section with a selection of vinyl LPs for sale.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the SoHo neighborhood is packed with diverse dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You'll find plenty of choices within walking distance.
Mercer St Books & Records is primarily a bookstore and record shop; it does not have an in-house cafe. However, many cafes are nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, taking photos for personal use is acceptable, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other shoppers. Some creators have shared their finds on social media.
The charming, packed shelves of books and the vintage record displays offer great visual appeal for photos. Capturing the cozy, eclectic atmosphere is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📚 Avid Readers & Book Collectors
Collectors will appreciate the quality of the vintage finds and the potential for uncovering unique editions, especially in fiction and older reprints. The vinyl record selection also adds another layer of appeal for those who appreciate curated collections. Plan to spend a good chunk of time here, as the store is compact but densely packed with treasures.
💰 Budget-Conscious Explorers
This makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to maximize their souvenir budget or simply enjoy the thrill of a bargain. Combine your visit with exploring the free-to-wander streets of SoHo, and you've got a fantastic, low-cost day out in Manhattan.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Your Next Read
Many visitors are delighted by the sheer variety of genres and topics available. From history and biography to fiction and niche subjects, there's truly something for everyone. The condition of the used books is frequently praised, with many appearing barely used or in excellent condition, often at prices well under $10. This makes it an ideal spot for budget-conscious readers or those looking to expand their library without breaking the bank.
Beyond books, the store also offers a curated selection of vinyl LPs. This dual offering appeals to a broader range of collectors and enthusiasts. Spending an hour sifting through records can be just as rewarding as browsing the bookshelves, making Mercer St Books & Records a multifaceted destination for lovers of print and sound.
Navigating the SoHo Scene
Getting to Mercer St Books & Records is straightforward thanks to New York City's extensive public transportation network. The nearest subway stations include Prince Street (N, R, W) and Broadway-Lafayette Street (B, D, F, M), both within easy walking distance. While street parking is available in SoHo, it's notoriously difficult to find and can be quite expensive, so opting for the subway or a ride-share service is often the most practical choice.
Once you're in the vicinity, you'll find a plethora of dining options to suit any taste or budget. From quick bites at charming cafes to more elaborate meals at renowned restaurants, SoHo offers a culinary adventure. This makes Mercer St Books & Records an excellent stop for a leisurely afternoon of browsing, followed by a delicious meal or a stroll through the fashionable streets.
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