Stacks in the City, Part 3: The Strand

Last week I visited one of the most well-known bookstores in the United States, or maybe even in the world. . . . The Strand Bookstore, located near Union Square in New York City.

Here are just a few facts about The Strand before I dive into the details of my visit:

First opened in 1927 on Fourth Avenue, home of what used to be New York's legendary Book Row.

In 1956, The Strand was moved to its current location, Broadway at 12th Street.

When first opening in 1927 on Forth Avenue, The Strand occupied 4,000 square feet. It now occupies 55,000 square feet.

Features the largest rare books collection in New York City.

Book topics include: Americana, Art/Architecture, Business/Economy, Children, Food/Wine, Fiction, Film/Drama, Games, History, Literature, Medical/Health, Military, Music/Dance, New York, Philosophy, Photography, Poetry, Sports, Reference, Religion, Science/Math, Social Science, Transportation and more!

Before my most recent visit to The Strand, I wondered to myself, "Why I don't come down more often?" But once I arrived, I remembered why I stay away . . . too many books I want and not enough money or space for them all!

And it's not only the fact that I have nowhere to store the books in my apartment; The Strand has so many books that it's almost overwhelming. Standing among the multiple stacks, boxes, and displays of books housed on the three floors of The Strand, I probably looked like a chicken with my head cut off while trying to decide where to start and where to go next. Down this aisle? Over to this area? Should I check out these books? I wonder what'’s over there . . .

Nonetheless, if you're ever in New York City, you must come to The Strand! However, I'd recommend saving up your money as well as traveling light — otherwise, you'll never make it on the plane on the way home without going over the suitcase weight limit.

— Carly M., STACKS Staffer

Comments

[Comment #1]

hi thats cool

[Comment #2]

wow i'd LOVE to work there
:D