Pierce County’s bookstores come in all shapes and sizes: from polished new spaces where fresh-off-the-press books sit waiting like well-behaved debutantes, to tucked-away shops where every shelf carries the faint scent of time and untold stories. Whether you’re after the newest bestseller, a dog-eared classic, or a stack of cheap paperbacks for when the rain won’t quit, you’ll find your fix here. This August 2025 roundup gathers the county’s best places to lose yourself in words—arranged by city, for easy wandering.
Tacoma
Hi-Voltage Records & Books (New & used) - 2714 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406
A beloved 6th Avenue hangout where music and literature meet. Browse the vinyl bins, then wander into the book section for a mix of fresh releases and well-loved reads.
King’s Books (
New & used) - 218 St Helens Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
A fixture of Tacoma’s literary scene, this shop is known for its sprawling shelves and lively events calendar. It’s a cozy place to get lost among local picks, new releases, and gently used gems.
Shelf Indulgence is Tacoma’s first permanent romance bookstore, celebrating love stories, diverse voices, and community connection in a cozy, inclusive space.
Grit City Books (
New only) - 3116 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406
This welcoming 6th Avenue indie highlights LGBTQ+ voices, indie titles, and works from local authors. The atmosphere is warm and conversational, perfect for lingering over your next read.
Tacoma Book Center (Used only) - 324 E 26th St, Tacoma, WA 98421
A labyrinth of towering stacks and long-forgotten treasures. It’s the kind of shop where you might walk in for one book and leave with a cart full.
Half Price Books (New & used) - 4027 Tacoma Mall Blvd, Tacoma, WA 98409
Part of a national chain but with a distinctly local crowd, offering new books at a discount alongside a wide range of used titles. You’ll also find games, records, and the occasional unexpected collectible.
Puyallup
Page & Pine Bookshop (New only) - 207 W Stewart Ave, Puyallup, WA 98371
A fresh addition to downtown with bright shelves and a handpicked selection. The vibe is small-town friendly with a modern indie sensibility.
Bundok Books (New only) - 3827 S Meridian, Puyallup, WA 98373
An inclusive bookstore committed to uplifting diverse voices, from BIPOC authors to LGBTQIA+ creators. Their carefully chosen stock makes every visit feel like a personal recommendation.
Gig Harbor
Invitation Bookshop (New only) - 3119 Judson St, Ste A, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
A polished, light-filled shop in the heart of downtown Gig Harbor. Their stock is crisp and contemporary, with a side of thoughtful gift items.
Gig Harbor Book Company (Used only) - 3226 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Steps from the waterfront, this bookstore blends the charm of used-book browsing and treasure hunting with the nostalgia of finding your birthday's copy of vintage magazines. It’s a must-stop for visitors exploring the harbor.
Gig Harbor’s fine used bookstore, specializing in local interest titles—from maritime fiction and Pacific Northwest history to boating know-how and military accounts, but with a wide range of genres, vintage treasures, and ever-changing porch sales that make every visit a new discovery.
Sumner
A Good Book (New & used) - 1014 Main St, Sumner, WA 98390
A whimsical small-town bookstore where you might be greeted by a friendly cat. The shelves are packed with everything from picture books to page-turning mysteries.
Lakewood
The Lakewood Bookstore (New & used) - 11017 Bridgeport Way SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
An inviting community spot with something for every reader, plus a small selection of games and puzzles. Their events calendar keeps locals coming back for more than just books.
