Housing Works Bookstore Cafe, Manhattan, New York City, USA - Image 1
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Housing Works Bookstore Cafe Manhattan New York

4.6
·2k reviews·New York, United States

A charming Soho bookstore and cafe that's also a non-profit, offering affordable used books and unique finds while supporting vital causes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
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Housing Works Bookstore Cafe, Manhattan, New York City, USA - Image 1

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe Manhattan New York

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming Soho bookstore and cafe that's also a non-profit, offering affordable used books and unique finds while supporting vital causes.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A lovely surprise, with great second-hand books at reasonable prices and a charming cafe inside."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Support a Great Cause

Every purchase helps Housing Works fight AIDS and homelessness. Feel good about your finds!

☕ Cafe Hours May Vary

The cafe is lovely but can be closed for events. Check ahead if it's a priority!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Second-Hand Book Treasures

Second-Hand Book Treasures

Main Bookstore Area

Explore a diverse collection of pre-loved books across all genres at great prices. A true haven for book lovers seeking hidden gems.

Reddit
Charming In-House Cafe

Charming In-House Cafe

Back of the Bookstore

Enjoy a coffee or snack in a cozy setting. It's the perfect companion to your book browsing adventure.

Reddit
Unique Trinkets and Finds

Unique Trinkets and Finds

Throughout the Store

Beyond books, discover quirky trinkets and unique items that add to the store's eclectic charm.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Discover a Bookstore with a Purpose

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe isn't just about books; it's a non-profit supporting AIDS and homelessness services. Your purchase makes a difference! Expect a curated selection of used books and unique finds. TikTok

Embrace the Cozy Cafe Vibe

This spot boasts a charming cafe, perfect for a quiet read or a coffee break. While sometimes closed for events, it adds to the unique atmosphere. Check their schedule if the cafe is a must-visit for you. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Relaxing end to the day
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Would you visit this town? #catskills #catskillsny #BookTok #newyorknewyork #newyorktiktok #ny #nycheck #travelny #visitnewyork #visitny #traveltips
@clumsygirltravels
979.3K likes • 5.4M views

🎯 Support a Great Cause

Every purchase helps Housing Works fight AIDS and homelessness. Feel good about your finds! TikTokReddit

☕ Cafe Hours May Vary

The cafe is lovely but can be closed for events. Check ahead if it's a priority! Reddit

romance only bookstore in NYC 🍎💌
@haleypham
499.5K likes • 3.8M views
🩵 MUST SEE TAYLOR SWIFT LOCATIONS IN NEW YORK! 🩵 🚌 Bus Stop Cafe - 597 Hudson Street 📀 Electric Lady Studios - 52 W Eight Street 💖 Cornelia Street - 23 Cornelia Street 🧣 Housing Works Bookstore - 126 Cosby Street #taylorswift #welcometonewyork #corneliastreet #newyork #nyc #newyorkcity #taylorswift13
lifewithlaurel_
432 likes • 11.2K views

📚 Genre Variety

From politics to fiction, find a wide range of used books. Great for diverse reading interests. Reddit

✨ Unexpected Treasures

Keep an eye out for unique trinkets and gifts alongside the books. Reddit

📚NYC for Book Lovers • Part 3 • Must visit beautiful bookstores in New York City 📍 Housing Works Bookstore: Soho 📍 Sweet Pickle Books: Lower East Side 📍 Greenlight Bookstore: Fulton Street, BK 📍 Rizzoli Bookstore: Flatiron 🧡Tag & Share them with your friends! ✨Follow @fishsflourish for more. · · · · #prettycitynewyork #explorenyc #nybucketlist #mysecretnyc #nycbookstores #bookstoresofinstagram N...
fishsflourish
890 likes • 17.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Support a Great Cause

Every purchase helps Housing Works fight AIDS and homelessness. Feel good about your finds! TikTokReddit

☕ Cafe Hours May Vary

The cafe is lovely but can be closed for events. Check ahead if it's a priority! Reddit

📚 Genre Variety

From politics to fiction, find a wide range of used books. Great for diverse reading interests. Reddit

✨ Unexpected Treasures

Keep an eye out for unique trinkets and gifts alongside the books. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Housing Works Bookstore Cafe for its dual appeal: a fantastic selection of affordable used books and a charming cafe, all within a space that supports a vital non-profit mission. It's a beloved spot for book lovers seeking both literary treasures and a feel-good shopping experience. While the cafe's availability can sometimes be limited due to events, the overall atmosphere and purpose make it a highly recommended destination.

"I stumbled into this bookstore in Soho by chance while trying to escape the rain — and it turned out to be such a lovely surprise. They had a great selection of second-hand books across many genres, all at very reasonable prices. On top of that, there was a small and charming café inside, making it a perfect spot to browse, relax, and enjoy a quiet moment on a rainy day."

Nurdan Kilincoglu

"A really lovely, quirky, and relaxed bookstore with a fun selection of used books and trinkets! The cafe in the back seems really nice too, but it was closed as they set up for an author event when I stopped in. Will be back!"

Kaitlyn Kline

"What a gorgeous bookstore! The staff was wonderful, too. The kids were able to find some things, I got a couple of dresses, and my partner is now swimming in books!"

Uni Clean

What People Like

Affordable used books
Charming cafe atmosphere
Supporting a good cause

What People Dislike

Cafe sometimes closed for events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is located in Soho. You can easily reach it via the subway. The nearest stations are Prince Street (N, R, W trains) and Spring Street (C, E trains). Many bus routes also serve the area. Instagram

Yes, it is very accessible by public transport. The subway lines N, R, W, C, and E all have stops within a short walking distance, making it convenient to visit. Instagram

For most visitors, the subway is the most efficient and cost-effective way to reach Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. It avoids Manhattan traffic and parking hassles. Instagram

While parking is available in Manhattan, it can be expensive and difficult to find. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to visit the bookstore. Instagram

Depending on your starting point, yes! It's located in Soho, a vibrant neighborhood, and is walkable from many popular areas like Greenwich Village or Nolita. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. It's a free-to-enter retail space and cafe. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for the cafe section which may close for events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

There is no admission fee to browse the bookstore. You are welcome to explore the shelves and enjoy the atmosphere. Reddit

Reservations for the cafe are generally not taken, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, it's a cozy space, and you can usually find a spot. Reddit

Yes, Housing Works often hosts author events and signings. These can be a great reason to visit, but may affect cafe availability. TikTokReddit

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

You'll find a wide variety of high-quality used books across numerous genres, including fiction, non-fiction, politics, economics, and more. It's a treasure trove for avid readers. Reddit

The prices for the second-hand books are generally very reasonable, making it an affordable way to stock up on reading material. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as cozy, charming, quirky, and relaxed. It's a welcoming space perfect for browsing and enjoying a quiet moment. Reddit

Yes, in addition to books, you can often find unique trinkets and other interesting items for sale, adding to the store's eclectic appeal. Reddit

With its cozy cafe and vast selection of books, it can be a charming and unique spot for a casual date, especially for book lovers. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, it features a small and charming cafe inside, offering a perfect spot to relax with a coffee or snack while you browse books. Reddit

The cafe typically offers coffee, tea, and light snacks. It's a great place to refuel during your visit. Reddit

The cafe is more geared towards coffee, tea, and light bites rather than full meals. It's ideal for a casual refreshment. Reddit

The cafe's hours can sometimes differ from the bookstore's, and it may be closed for private events. It's advisable to check their schedule. Reddit

Being in Soho, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the surrounding blocks, offering a wide range of dining choices. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, taking photos for personal use is acceptable, especially to capture the charming atmosphere. However, always be mindful of other patrons and staff. Instagram

The cozy cafe area, the stacks of books, and any unique decor or displays make for great photo opportunities. The overall ambiance is very 'Instagrammable'. Instagram+1

For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's best to contact the store in advance to inquire about their policies and potential fees. Instagram

Absolutely! Sharing your book hauls is a great way to show off your finds from this unique bookstore. Instagram

Consider using hashtags like #HousingWorksBookstore, #SohoNYC, #BookstoreCafe, #UsedBooks, #NYCBuchhandlung, and #ShopForACause to connect with others. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe can be a fun outing for families. The variety of used books means there's a good chance of finding something for younger readers, from picture books to young adult novels. The cozy cafe offers a nice spot for a break, and the unique trinkets can be fun for kids to browse. It’s a relaxed environment where children can explore without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds, making it easier for little ones to navigate the aisles. The bookstore's mission also provides a gentle introduction to the concept of supporting good causes, which can be a valuable lesson for children. TikTok

📚 Budget-Conscious Bookworms

For those who love to read but are mindful of their spending, Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is a dream come true. The second-hand books are priced very reasonably, allowing you to acquire a substantial library without a hefty investment. This is a prime spot for finding literary gems at a fraction of their original cost. Reddit

Beyond just the books, the cafe offers an affordable way to enjoy a coffee or snack while immersing yourself in the bookstore's atmosphere. The overall experience provides excellent value, combining the joy of discovery with the satisfaction of supporting a non-profit organization. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mission Behind the Books

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is more than just a retail space; it's a vital part of the Housing Works organization, a non-profit dedicated to ending the AIDS epidemic and homelessness. Every purchase made here directly contributes to their crucial work. This mission imbues the store with a unique sense of purpose, making each book you buy feel like a meaningful contribution. TikTok Visitors often express how much they appreciate supporting such a worthy cause while finding great reads. Reddit

This commitment to social impact is a key differentiator. Unlike typical bookstores, a visit here offers a chance to engage with a community-driven initiative. The staff are often passionate about the cause, adding to the welcoming and purposeful atmosphere. It’s a place where conscious consumerism truly comes to life, offering a feel-good shopping experience. TikTok

A Haven for Book Lovers and Coffee Seekers

The bookstore itself is a delight for any bibliophile. It boasts an impressive and diverse selection of used books, meticulously curated across a wide array of genres. Whether you're hunting for a rare find, a classic novel, or the latest bestseller, the chances are high you'll discover something special. The prices are consistently praised as very reasonable, making it an excellent destination for stocking up on reading material without breaking the bank. Reddit

Complementing the literary offerings is the charming in-house cafe. This cozy nook provides the perfect ambiance to settle in with a newly acquired book and a warm beverage. While the cafe's hours can sometimes be subject to change due to events, its presence significantly enhances the overall experience, transforming the bookstore into a complete destination for relaxation and discovery. Reddit