Powell’s City of Books isn’t just a bookstore; it’s a Portland landmark and a global bibliophile’s pilgrimage site. Spanning an entire city block on West Burnside Street, this independent bookstore is a vibrant microcosm of Portland itself – brimming with intelligence, eccentricity, and a palpable passion for literature. With over a million new and used books, alongside a curated selection of unique gifts, games, and stationery, Powell’s City of Books offers an unparalleled browsing experience. Whether you’re searching for a rare out-of-print edition, a contemporary bestseller, or a unique tarot deck, this literary institution has something to captivate every visitor.
Occupying a complete city block in the heart of Portland, Powell’s City of Books is recognized as the world’s largest bookstore for new and used titles, hosting frequent author events, a distinguished Rare Book Room, and a welcoming in-store coffee shop. Credit: Celeste Noche
Unveiling the Unique Charm of Powell’s City of Books
What truly sets Powell’s City of Books apart? It’s more than just its impressive 68,000 square feet of retail space; it’s the immersive experience it offers. Book lovers from around the world are drawn to this literary haven to lose themselves within its color-coded rooms, discover unexpected literary treasures, and attend engaging author talks. Beyond its flagship store, Powell’s encompasses multiple Portland locations, warehouses, and a network of book sources, solidifying its status as the world’s largest independent bookstore. This isn’t just a retail space; it’s a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of independent bookselling and the vibrant literary scene of Portland.
Frequently Asked Questions for Your Visit
What Makes Powell’s City of Books So Special?
Beyond its sheer size and vast collection, Powell’s is renowned for its unique atmosphere. The color-coded rooms, spanning three floors, create a sense of exploration and discovery. The knowledgeable staff, passionate about books, are always ready to offer recommendations or guide you through the labyrinthine aisles. Furthermore, Powell’s commitment to both new and used books, side-by-side, creates an inclusive and accessible literary environment, appealing to a wide range of readers and budgets. The frequent author events also foster a direct connection between readers and writers, making it a dynamic cultural hub.
What Are Powell’s City of Books Hours?
Powell’s City of Books, along with its sister stores at Cedar Hills Crossing and Hawthorne, welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For those interested in delving into literary history, the Rare Book Room at the City of Books maintains hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. It’s always wise to check Powell’s Books’ official social media channels for any holiday hour adjustments before planning your visit to ensure a seamless experience.
How Do I Get to Powell’s City of Books on West Burnside?
Located centrally at 1005 W. Burnside Street, Powell’s City of Books is nestled in Portland’s vibrant Pearl District, bordering downtown. For drivers, street parking is typically metered during daytime hours, with parking garages available nearby. Cyclists will find convenient bike racks on the north and east sides of the store. Public transportation provides easy access: the Portland Streetcar, MAX Red and Blue lines, and TriMet Bus #20 all stop within a block of Powell’s. MAX Green and Yellow line riders can easily transfer at Pioneer Courthouse Square to connect with the Red and Blue lines, or enjoy a brief 10-minute walk to the bookstore.
Is Powell’s City of Books Accessible?
Powell’s Books is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. All locations adhere to ADA standards, ensuring wheelchair and stroller accessibility throughout the stores. Powell’s City of Books provides two designated ADA parking spaces for visitors requiring them: one on NE 11th Avenue and another on NE Couch Street near the Orange Room entrance. For visitors needing additional assistance during their shopping experience, Powell’s staff are available to help; simply call 503-228-4651 to request support.
A Storied Beginning: Tracing the Powell’s Legacy
The story of Powell’s Books is a testament to family legacy and a deep-rooted love for bookselling. Walter Powell, the founder, was inspired to create Powell’s Books in 1971 after witnessing the success of his son, Michael Powell, who had opened a thriving bookstore in Chicago in 1970. Returning to Portland, Walter emerged from retirement to establish his own used bookstore in a former car dealership in Northwest Portland. Later in the 1970s, Michael joined his father, and together, with the dedication of their staff and the support of the Portland community, they cultivated the iconic institution we know today. Remarkably, half a century later, Powell’s Books remains family-owned and operated, with Walter’s granddaughter, Emily Powell, leading the bookstore since 2010, continuing the Powell family’s passion for books and independent bookselling.
Navigating Your Literary Adventure at Powell’s City of Books
Essential Tips Before You Explore
Located in the Pearl District, a neighborhood celebrated for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and diverse culinary scene, Powell’s City of Books is a central landmark on West Burnside. The main entrance, marked by the iconic white and scarlet sign at the corner of NW 10th Avenue and West Burnside, is instantly recognizable. This entrance also serves as a marquee, advertising upcoming author events. A second entrance, added in 1999 at the corner of NW Couch Street and NW 11th Avenue, features a striking nine-foot pillar crafted from Tenino sandstone, adorned with Latin phrases celebrating books.
Once inside, the key to fully experiencing Powell’s is to embrace the serendipity of browsing. Let yourself wander, pull books from shelves that pique your interest, or ask a staff member for guidance. Weekends are lively, but the store’s expansive layout ensures you can still find your own space. For a quicker checkout, especially if the main entrance lines are long, the Orange Room often offers a faster exit. Whether you have an hour or an afternoon, allow ample time to explore each floor and perhaps enjoy a break at the in-store cafe.
How to Explore: A Room-by-Room Guide
Navigating a million books might seem daunting, but Powell’s has thoughtfully organized its vast collection into nine color-coded rooms, further divided into 3,500 subsections, making it surprisingly accessible.
The first floor, often considered the heart of the store, features bestsellers, new releases, children’s books, poetry, cookbooks, pop culture, and an array of gifts and games. The second floor is dedicated to nonfiction, spanning history, science, philosophy, travel, and more. The top floor houses art, architecture, and design books, the Basil Hallward art gallery, and the prestigious Rare Book Room. For easy navigation, grab a map at the information kiosks or consult the online map. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for help – they are literary guides ready to assist. Restrooms are located on the second level in the Purple Room; just ask a staff member for the access code.
Pro-Tip: Books can be found in multiple locations due to publisher categorization and Powell’s curated displays. For example, a book might be on the “Pacific Northwest” shelf and in its genre section. Similarly, authors published in multiple genres might have related works shelved nearby, such as Carmen Maria Machado’s memoir In the Dream House and her short story collection Her Body and Other Parties, found together in the Blue Room.
Discover Literary Treasures in the Rare Book Room
A highlight for any visitor, the Rare Book Room is a captivating space for both serious bibliophiles and curious browsers. It houses a remarkable collection of signed first editions, out-of-print novels, exquisite art books, and other collectible volumes. It’s also a place of local lore, as the resting place of Fup, the beloved store cat from the now-closed Powell’s Technical Books. Obtain a free pass in the Pearl Room to enter this literary sanctuary, where you can pay tribute to Fup and explore literary history.
Explore a curated collection of rare, limited edition, signed, and first edition books within the distinguished Rare Books room at Powell’s City of Books. Credit: Emilly Prado
While you can view the oldest book in the store, printed in 1494, the most valuable book, The Journals of Lewis and Clark, valued at $350,000, is kept securely off-site. This is a first printing of the “Biddle edition” and one of only 23 surviving copies worldwide.
Celebrating Local Literary Legends and Indie Publishers
Powell’s City of Books proudly showcases Portland’s vibrant literary community. You’ll find numerous works by legendary Portland authors like Ursula K. Le Guin and Mitchell S. Jackson. Don’t miss the small press section in the Blue Room, highlighting independent publishers like Tin House Books, Forest Avenue Press, Hawthorne Books, and Future Tense Books. Discover local authors like Jessica Wadeligh of Zines & Things and award-winning poet Stephanie Adams-Santos, reflecting Portland’s dynamic independent publishing scene.
Refuel and Relax at Guilder Cafe
Nestled in the southwest corner of the Gold Room is the Guilder Cafe, a cozy retreat within the bookstore. This light-filled cafe, serving Junior’s Roasted Coffee, is playfully themed after The Princess Bride, featuring custom wallpaper by local artist Kate Blairstone incorporating Portland icons like the “Big Pink.”
The Guilder Café within Powell’s City of Books, inspired by the film The Princess Bride, offers comfortable seating for reading and a diverse menu for dining.
With comfortable stadium seating and window-side tables, it’s an ideal spot to browse your book haul or enjoy a meal. The menu features breakfast fare, sandwiches, and shareable plates, alongside a selection of beers, cider, cocktails, coffee, and tea.
Unique Gifts and Powell’s Swag
Beyond books, Powell’s offers an eclectic array of gifts and trinkets. From unique wrapping paper to Pendleton journals and locally made items, you’ll find perfect presents and souvenirs. While the Orange Room is the main gift area, smaller selections are thoughtfully placed throughout the store. Find Powell’s branded merchandise, including mugs, pins, totes, candles, and leather coasters (from a queer-woman-owned local business), in the Green Room and throughout the store.
Engage with Authors and Community at Powell’s Events
Powell’s City of Books is a hub for literary events. The Basil Hallward Gallery in the Pearl Room hosts readings and discussions with acclaimed writers, artists, and thinkers. Check the online calendar for upcoming events across all Powell’s locations. Kids’ Storytime is a weekly event at Powell’s City of Books every Saturday morning.
Powell’s also participates in city-wide literary events. Independent Bookstore Day in April is celebrated with special sales. Smallpresspalooza, hosted by Future Tense Books publisher Kevin Sampsell, showcases local and national small press authors. The Portland Book Festival, held every November, features an extensive lineup of authors.
Powell’s City of Books on West Burnside Street is more than just a bookstore; it’s a Portland experience, a literary landmark, and a community gathering place. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip to Powell’s is an essential Portland adventure for anyone who loves books.
