
Unnameable Books Prospect Heights Brooklyn
Brooklyn's beloved independent bookstore, offering a curated selection of new & used books, with a focus on philosophy and literary fiction, plus vibr...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time

Unnameable Books Prospect Heights Brooklyn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brooklyn's beloved independent bookstore, offering a curated selection of new & used books, with a focus on philosophy and literary fiction, plus vibrant community events.
"Discover literary treasures at this charming Brooklyn bookstore with incredible deals on used books!"

🎯 Browse the Outdoor Carts
Don't miss the $1-$3 book carts outside for incredible deals and unexpected finds!
📚 Check Event Schedule
They host regular poetry readings, book launches, and talks. A vibrant community hub!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The $1-$3 Book Carts
Outside the store
Discover hidden literary treasures and amazing deals on these ever-changing carts. A must-browse for bargain hunters!

Philosophy & Revolutionary Texts
Dedicated shelves
Explore a deep collection of philosophy, Marxist theory, and revolutionary texts, a rare find for avid readers.

Curated Literary Fiction
Fiction section
Find a thoughtfully selected range of literary fiction, showcasing both classics and contemporary gems.

Secret Garden Reading Nook
Backyard
A quiet, charming backyard space perfect for reading or attending intimate literary events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget Book Hunting
Eventful Evenings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Browse the Outdoor Carts
Don't miss the $1-$3 book carts outside for incredible deals and unexpected finds!
📚 Check Event Schedule
They host regular poetry readings, book launches, and talks. A vibrant community hub!
🧐 Explore Niche Sections
Discover extensive philosophy, Marxist, and Spanish language collections.
🤫 Quiet Reading Spot
The backyard garden offers a peaceful escape for reading or enjoying a quiet moment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Browse the Outdoor Carts
Don't miss the $1-$3 book carts outside for incredible deals and unexpected finds!
📚 Check Event Schedule
They host regular poetry readings, book launches, and talks. A vibrant community hub!
🧐 Explore Niche Sections
Discover extensive philosophy, Marxist, and Spanish language collections.
🤫 Quiet Reading Spot
The backyard garden offers a peaceful escape for reading or enjoying a quiet moment.
🚶♀️ Walk to Vanderbilt Ave
Enjoy a pleasant walk to the store on Vanderbilt Avenue.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Unnameable Books for its exceptional selection of used books, particularly its strong offerings in philosophy and literary fiction. The incredibly affordable outdoor book carts are a major draw, offering fantastic deals. While some find prices for rarer items to be fair rather than bargain-basement, the overall experience is highly positive, with many appreciating the curated collections and the vibrant community events hosted on-site.
"Lovely little bookshop in Brooklyn, great selection of used books, different genres, both fiction and non-fiction. Very well organized and easy to browse through. The 1-3$ book carts outside are always full of nice surprises, make sure to not skip them."
Louana D
"Unnameable Books probably has the best selection of used philosophy books in Brooklyn. The collection takes up a couple shelves and leans towards continental and Marxist philosophy. There are also other sections with revolutionary texts. The prices are best described as fair, but I didn’t find any incredible deals.
The store’s collection of literary fiction is also notable and curated as well as the philosophy section.
Check out the Spanish language section as well, which was full of International Publishers titles when I visited—something you don’t see every day."
Maya O
"I’m not sure why used booksellers are going to places like Biblio to price their books. I always find the more obscure titles much cheaper on line. Nice selection but be wealthy and look smart if you shop here."
F. H.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Unnameable Books is located on Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. You can reach it via subway lines like the B, Q, or 2, 3 trains to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr, or the C train to Washington Av. Walking from nearby neighborhoods like Park Slope is also a pleasant option.
Street parking in Prospect Heights can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or consider ride-sharing services for easier access.
Unnameable Books is conveniently located near neighborhoods such as Prospect Heights, Park Slope, and Crown Heights, making it an easy stop if you're exploring these areas.
Yes, if you're visiting places like Prospect Park or the Brooklyn Museum, Unnameable Books is within a reasonable walking distance, especially if you enjoy exploring Brooklyn on foot.
The closest major subway hub is Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr, serving multiple lines (B, Q, 2, 3). From there, it's a short walk to Vanderbilt Avenue. The C train to Washington Av is also an option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Unnameable Books is free! It's an independent bookstore open to the public for browsing and shopping.
Unnameable Books is typically open on weekends from 10 AM to 6 PM. It's always a good idea to check their social media or website for any last-minute changes.
While browsing the store is free, some events like poetry readings or book launches may have a small cover charge or suggested donation. Check the event details for specifics.
While not explicitly stated, most independent bookstores are generally pet-friendly for well-behaved dogs. It's best to confirm directly with the store if you plan to bring a pet.
The main floor of the bookstore is generally accessible. However, some older buildings may have limitations. It's advisable to call ahead if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
Unnameable Books offers a diverse selection of new and used books, with strengths in literary fiction, philosophy, Marxist theory, and revolutionary texts. They also have a Spanish language section and classic children's books.
Prices are generally considered fair, especially for the curated selections. The outdoor carts often feature incredible deals at $1-$3 per book, making it very budget-friendly.
Yes, Unnameable Books is a vibrant community hub that regularly hosts poetry readings, author talks, book launches, and other literary events.
The bookstore has a charming backyard garden that provides a quiet and pleasant atmosphere for reading or relaxing.
Its strong focus on politically and socially mindful titles, extensive philosophy collection, and the community-driven events make it a standout independent bookstore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Unnameable Books is primarily a bookstore and does not have an in-house cafe or dining facilities. However, there are many eateries nearby.
You'll find numerous dining options in Prospect Heights. Popular spots mentioned by visitors include Ample Hills Creamery for ice cream and Soda Bar for drinks, both located across the street.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the bookstore to keep the books in good condition. The backyard area might be suitable for a quick snack.
Prospect Heights offers a variety of dining choices, including many with vegan and vegetarian options. Exploring the surrounding streets will reveal numerous cafes and restaurants catering to different dietary needs.
Yes, Soda Bar is located across the street from Unnameable Books and is a popular spot for drinks after browsing.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other shoppers or events.
Capture the charm of the outdoor book carts, the cozy interior with its diverse shelves, and the tranquil backyard garden. The unique book spines and event setups also make for great shots.
For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's essential to contact the bookstore in advance to obtain permission and discuss any potential fees.
Expect a cozy, intellectual, and slightly bohemian aesthetic. The mix of old and new books, combined with the intimate setting, creates a visually rich environment.
During events, it's best to be mindful of performers and attendees. Some events might have specific photography guidelines, so check with the organizers if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📚 Avid Readers & Collectors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Used Books
Beyond these specialized areas, the store also features a Spanish language section, a rarity that appeals to a diverse readership. The outdoor book carts are a particular highlight, consistently offering surprising finds at incredibly low prices, often just $1 to $3. This budget-friendly aspect makes Unnameable Books an accessible destination for book lovers of all financial backgrounds, encouraging spontaneous discovery and repeat visits. The combination of niche specialization and accessible pricing creates a unique and inviting atmosphere for book enthusiasts.
A Hub for Literary Events
These events are a significant draw for locals and visitors alike, offering opportunities to discover new voices and engage in thoughtful discussions. For instance, poetry nights have been noted for their vibrant energy and emotional depth. Attending an event at Unnameable Books offers a chance to experience the pulse of Brooklyn's literary scene firsthand. It's a place where the love of books translates into a lively and welcoming community experience, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary literature and culture.
The Prospect Heights Vibe
Proximity to other popular spots enhances the appeal of visiting Unnameable Books. It's often recommended to combine a trip to the bookstore with a visit to nearby attractions like Prospect Park or the Brooklyn Museum. For a quick treat, Ample Hills Creamery for ice cream and Soda Bar for drinks are conveniently located just across the street, making it easy to turn a book-browsing session into a full afternoon or evening outing. This integration into the neighborhood's fabric makes Unnameable Books a delightful destination for a leisurely exploration of Brooklyn.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit