Tennessee bookworms know there’s something magical about wandering through shelves packed with pre-loved books. Used bookstores offer more than just affordable reads. They’re treasure troves where you might discover a rare first edition, a forgotten classic, or that perfect book you didn’t even know you were looking for.
Whether you’re hunting for vintage novels, quirky coffee table books, or simply want to spend an afternoon surrounded by stories, these ten Tennessee used bookstores will make you lose all sense of time.
1. McKay’s Nashville – Nashville
Stepping into McKay’s Nashville feels like entering a wonderland for readers. This massive store stretches across thousands of square feet, packed floor to ceiling with used books in every genre imaginable. You could spend hours here and barely scratch the surface of what’s available.
The layout invites exploration, with clearly marked sections that make it easy to find what you’re after. Fiction lovers will find rows upon rows of novels, while non-fiction enthusiasts can browse everything from history to self-help. The store also carries CDs, DVDs, video games, and musical instruments, making it a one-stop shop for entertainment.
What sets McKay’s apart is their trade-in program. Bring in your gently used books, movies, or music, and they’ll give you cash or store credit on the spot. It’s a sustainable way to refresh your collection without breaking the bank.
The staff here knows their inventory well and can point you toward hidden gems you might otherwise miss. They’re friendly without being pushy, letting you browse at your own pace. The prices are incredibly reasonable, with most paperbacks costing just a few dollars.
Located in West Nashville, McKay’s draws book lovers from across the city and beyond. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a lazy afternoon of browsing. Whether you’re a serious collector or casual reader, you’ll find something worth taking home.
2. McKay’s Chattanooga – Chattanooga
Chattanooga’s McKay’s location brings the same impressive scale as its Nashville sibling but with its own distinct character. The sheer size of this place can be overwhelming at first, but that’s part of the charm. Every visit reveals something new tucked between the shelves.
This location specializes in variety. Beyond the extensive book collection, you’ll find vintage vinyl records that music collectors dream about. The DVD and Blu-ray section rivals many video stores from the past, offering titles you won’t find on streaming services.
The store’s organization makes browsing surprisingly easy despite its size. Color-coded signs hang above each section, and the staff maintains the shelves meticulously. You won’t find books randomly shoved wherever they fit.
McKay’s Chattanooga attracts a diverse crowd, from college students hunting for textbooks to retirees searching for mystery novels. The atmosphere buzzes with quiet energy as people discover unexpected finds. Many locals consider it a weekend tradition to stop by and see what’s new.
Their pricing structure rewards frequent visitors. The more you trade in, the better your credit becomes. Some regulars rarely pay cash, simply rotating their collections through the store.
It’s an environmentally friendly approach that keeps books in circulation.
The location near Northgate Mall makes it convenient for combining errands with book hunting. Plan to spend at least an hour here, though most visitors end up staying much longer once they start exploring.
3. Burke’s Book Store – Memphis
Walking into Burke’s Book Store feels like stepping back in time. This Memphis institution has served readers since 1875, making it one of the oldest bookstores in the South. The history practically seeps from the walls, creating an atmosphere you won’t find in modern chain stores.
Unlike sprawling warehouses, Burke’s offers a carefully curated selection. The staff handpicks inventory based on quality and reader interest rather than simply stocking everything available. This thoughtful approach means you’re more likely to discover genuinely good reads instead of wading through mediocre options.
The store specializes in Southern literature and local Memphis history. If you’re interested in understanding Tennessee’s cultural heritage, this is where you’ll find rare volumes and out-of-print treasures. The collection includes signed first editions that serious collectors covet.
Burke’s also carries new books alongside used ones, blending the best of both worlds. The staff consists of genuine book lovers who read voraciously and can offer personalized recommendations. They remember regular customers and their preferences, creating a neighborhood bookstore experience that’s becoming increasingly rare.
Located in the Cooper-Young district, the store fits perfectly into Memphis’s artsy, eclectic vibe. The surrounding neighborhood offers great restaurants and coffee shops, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon in the area. Many visitors grab a book from Burke’s and head to a nearby cafe to start reading immediately.
The store hosts author events and book clubs, fostering a real community around literature.
4. The Grumpy Bookpeddler – Murfreesboro
Don’t let the name fool you. The Grumpy Bookpeddler radiates warmth and personality despite its cranky moniker. This Murfreesboro gem packs an impressive collection into a relatively compact space, creating a cozy atmosphere that encourages lingering.
The store’s personality shines through in its quirky organization and handwritten shelf tags. You’ll find staff recommendations scattered throughout, offering honest opinions about books worth your time. These personal touches make browsing feel like getting advice from a well-read friend.
Middle Tennessee State University students frequent the shop, hunting for affordable textbooks and leisure reading. However, the inventory caters to all ages and interests. The children’s section delights young readers, while the history and biography sections satisfy more scholarly tastes.
Prices here are exceptionally fair, with frequent sales that make book buying even more affordable. The store regularly offers bag sales where you can stuff a bag full of books for one flat price. These deals turn casual browsers into bulk buyers.
The Grumpy Bookpeddler also buys books directly, so you can clear out your shelves while adding to your collection. The owner evaluates trade-ins fairly and pays cash on the spot. This keeps the inventory fresh and constantly rotating.
Located on the historic Murfreesboro square, the store benefits from foot traffic and a charming downtown setting. After browsing books, you can explore other local shops and restaurants within walking distance. The whole area feels like a throwback to simpler times when downtowns thrived as community gathering places.
5. Book Eddy – Knoxville
Book Eddy swirls with possibility, living up to its name as a whirlpool of literary discoveries. This Knoxville favorite has built a loyal following through consistent quality and fair pricing. Regulars stop by weekly to see what new arrivals have landed on the shelves.
The store emphasizes quality over quantity. Rather than cramming every available title into the space, Book Eddy focuses on books in good condition that people actually want to read. You won’t find water-damaged paperbacks or books with broken spines here.
Their fiction section impresses with depth, especially in literary fiction and classics. Mystery and thriller fans will find plenty to choose from, including hard-to-find titles from lesser-known authors. The non-fiction collection covers everything from cooking to philosophy, with particularly strong offerings in history and biography.
Book Eddy’s location in a quieter part of Knoxville means it flies under the radar for some visitors, but that’s part of its appeal. The store never feels overcrowded, allowing for peaceful browsing without constantly navigating around other shoppers. Soft music plays in the background, creating a relaxed ambiance.
The staff takes genuine interest in helping customers find what they need. They’ll special order books if you’re searching for something specific, and they maintain a wish list system for regular customers. This personalized service builds lasting relationships between the store and its community.
Parking is convenient and free, removing one of the hassles that can make city bookstore visits frustrating. The surrounding area offers several good lunch spots, perfect for pairing with a book-buying expedition.
6. Southland Books & Cafe – Maryville
Imagine finding your next favorite book while sipping a perfectly brewed coffee. Southland Books & Cafe makes this dream a reality by combining two of life’s great pleasures under one roof. The aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the scent of old books, creating an intoxicating atmosphere.
The bookstore side offers a thoughtfully selected inventory of used books across all genres. The owners clearly read and appreciate literature, evident in the quality titles filling the shelves. You’ll find contemporary bestsellers alongside timeless classics, with plenty of hidden gems in between.
What makes Southland special is the cafe component. After browsing, you can settle into a comfortable chair with your purchases and a latte. The cafe serves light food too, including pastries, sandwiches, and snacks.
It’s the perfect setup for spending an entire afternoon.
The store hosts regular events, including book clubs, author readings, and open mic nights. These gatherings foster a sense of community among local book lovers. You might arrive as a stranger and leave having made new friends who share your literary interests.
Located in Maryville near the Great Smoky Mountains, Southland attracts both locals and tourists. Visitors heading to or from the national park often stop in to grab reading material for their trip. The small-town setting adds to the charm, offering a slower pace than urban bookstores.
The staff knows their regular customers by name and remembers their reading preferences. They’ll set aside books they think you’ll enjoy, creating a personalized shopping experience that online retailers can’t match.
7. Rhino Booksellers – Nashville
Rhino Booksellers charges through Nashville’s book scene with distinctive style and substance. This isn’t your typical used bookstore. The selection leans toward the literary and intellectual, attracting readers who appreciate quality writing and aren’t afraid of challenging material.
The store specializes in rare and collectible books that serious bibliophiles seek out. First editions, signed copies, and out-of-print titles fill the shelves alongside more common used books. If you’re building a collection rather than just looking for beach reads, Rhino deserves serious attention.
Their vintage paperback section is particularly impressive, featuring cover art and designs from decades past. These books appeal to both readers and collectors who appreciate the aesthetic qualities of older editions. Prices reflect the books’ condition and rarity but remain reasonable compared to online markets.
Rhino’s staff consists of knowledgeable book people who can discuss literature at any level. They’re happy to chat about authors, recommend titles, or simply let you browse in peace. The atmosphere encourages intellectual curiosity without feeling pretentious or exclusive.
The store’s location in East Nashville puts it in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. After book shopping, you can explore nearby restaurants, bars, and music venues. The area buzzes with creative energy, attracting artists, musicians, and writers who appreciate Rhino’s curated selection.
Unlike larger used bookstores that feel like warehouses, Rhino maintains a more intimate scale. This makes it easier to explore the entire inventory without feeling overwhelmed. Every shelf holds potential discoveries waiting to be found.
8. Landmark Booksellers – Franklin
Franklin’s historic downtown provides the perfect setting for Landmark Booksellers. This store fits seamlessly into the town’s preserved 19th-century architecture, creating an experience that honors both books and local heritage. Walking through the door feels like entering a literary sanctuary.
The inventory spans all major genres with particular strength in Southern authors and Tennessee history. If you want to understand the region through its writers, Landmark offers an excellent starting point. The staff can guide you toward books that capture the area’s unique culture and complex past.
Landmark distinguishes itself through exceptional customer service. The booksellers take time to understand what you’re looking for and offer thoughtful recommendations. They’ve read widely from their own inventory, so their suggestions come from genuine familiarity rather than computer algorithms.
The store maintains high standards for book condition. You won’t find damaged or heavily worn copies unless they’re rare enough to justify their flaws. This attention to quality means you can buy with confidence, knowing your purchases will hold up to reading and rereading.
Franklin attracts tourists year-round, drawn by its historic sites and charming downtown. Landmark benefits from this foot traffic while remaining a genuine resource for local residents. The store strikes a nice balance between serving visitors and maintaining its role as a community bookstore.
The surrounding area offers excellent shopping and dining, making Landmark an easy addition to a Franklin day trip. Many visitors combine book browsing with lunch at nearby restaurants and walks through the historic district. The whole experience feels like stepping back to an era when downtowns served as true community centers.
9. Elder’s Bookstore – Nashville
Elder’s Bookstore has earned its place as a Nashville institution through decades of reliable service to readers. This isn’t the flashiest bookstore in town, but it delivers exactly what book lovers need: great selection, fair prices, and knowledgeable staff who care about matching readers with books.
The store’s organization makes finding specific genres or authors straightforward. Everything is clearly labeled and logically arranged, saving you time when you’re searching for something particular. However, the layout also encourages serendipitous discoveries as you browse adjacent sections.
Elder’s inventory reflects Nashville’s diverse reading tastes. Music biographies and books about country music history naturally feature prominently given the city’s musical heritage. However, you’ll find strong selections in every category, from romance to science fiction to academic texts.
What keeps customers returning is the store’s consistency. Unlike some used bookstores where inventory quality varies wildly, Elder’s maintains steady standards. They’re selective about what they accept for trade-in, ensuring the shelves stay stocked with books people actually want to read.
The pricing is transparent and fair, with most books marked clearly. Sales and special promotions happen regularly, rewarding frequent visitors with extra savings. The store also offers a loyalty program that provides additional discounts to regular customers.
Elder’s location makes it accessible for Nashville residents across the city. Ample parking removes one common frustration of bookstore visits. The staff treats everyone with equal friendliness whether you’re buying one paperback or a stack of hardcovers.
This unpretentious approach creates a welcoming environment where all readers feel comfortable browsing at their own pace.
10. The Book Shelf – Tullahoma
Small-town charm radiates from every corner of The Book Shelf in Tullahoma. This community bookstore proves you don’t need to live in a big city to access great books. The owners have created a welcoming space where neighbors gather, visitors discover local flavor, and everyone finds something worth reading.
The selection punches above its weight for a store in a smaller town. You’ll find recent bestsellers, classic literature, children’s books, and regional titles all represented. The inventory rotates regularly as locals trade in finished books and pick up new ones, keeping the selection fresh.
The Book Shelf serves as more than just a retail space. It functions as a community hub where people connect over shared love of reading. The staff knows most customers by name and keeps mental notes about their preferences.
This personal touch creates loyalty that impersonal online shopping can never replicate.
Prices are set with local economics in mind, keeping books affordable for everyone. The store regularly offers special deals and discounts, making it possible to build a home library without spending a fortune. Trade-ins receive fair credit, encouraging the sustainable practice of recycling books through the community.
Tullahoma’s location between Nashville and Chattanooga makes The Book Shelf a convenient stop for travelers along that corridor. The downtown area maintains a pleasant, walkable character with local businesses worth supporting. Visitors often comment on the friendly atmosphere and genuine hospitality they encounter.
The store’s survival and success demonstrate that independent bookstores still have vital roles in their communities, especially outside major metropolitan areas where chain stores dominate.