Nestled in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District, Powell’s City of Books stands as a monumental landmark and the world’s largest independent bookstore. This vibrant space draws in visitors and locals alike, boasting a staggering collection of over 1 million new and used books, alongside a diverse selection of housewares, games, and greeting cards.
For book lovers, Powell’s isn’t just a bookstore; it’s a sanctuary teeming with an array of offerings. From out-of-print indie novellas to the latest bestseller, there is something available for everyone.
### Unique Features of Powell’s City of Books
Occupying an impressive 68,000 square feet, Powell’s City of Books is designed to offer an enjoyable shopping experience. Visitors can explore three color-coded floors filled with thousands of titles, engage with passionate staff, and partake in special author events.
In addition to its flagship location, Powell’s operates two other bookstores in the Portland area, all contributing to its status as the largest independent bookstore worldwide. Each location features distinct areas for various genres, ensuring a well-organized and accommodating shopping environment.
### Hours and Accessibility
Powell’s City of Books, along with its Cedar Hills Crossing and Hawthorne locations, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Please note that the Rare Book Room has slightly shorter hours, operating from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Before visiting, it is advisable to check their social media accounts for updates, as holiday hours may vary.
The store is easily accessible for all visitors, meeting ADA standards for accessibility and providing wheelchair and stroller access throughout its expansive space. There are designated ADA parking spaces nearby, and staff is ready to assist visitors who require additional support while shopping.
### The Origins of Powell’s Books
Powell’s Books has a rich history, having been founded in 1971 by Walter Powell. His inspiration came after working alongside his son, Michael Powell, who had opened a successful bookstore in Chicago.
Walter returned to Portland and opened his own bookstore, beginning a legacy that would continue to flourish under the Powell family. In recent years, Emily Powell, Walter’s granddaughter, has taken the reins of this beloved establishment, preserving its family-owned spirit.
### Navigating the Store
With over a million books available, navigating Powell’s can be a rewarding challenge. The store has divided its vast collection into nine distinct rooms, along with 3,500 subsections, making it easy for visitors to locate their desired titles.
The layout of the store is strategically designed: the first floor includes bestsellers, children’s literature, cooking books, and pop culture titles, while the second floor is dedicated to nonfiction covering a diverse range of topics. The third level is home to art and architecture books, along with the Rare Book Room, an exquisite space where visitors can find unique, collectible volumes.
For assistance, customers can grab a map from information kiosks located throughout the store or consult the online map. Staff members are more than willing to help guests locate specific authors or genres, ensuring a satisfying browsing experience.
### The Rare Books Room
For avid collectors and curious bibliophiles, the Rare Book Room is a must-see. This dimly lit area holds an exceptional collection, from autographed first editions to out-of-print novels, providing a glimpse into the world of rare literature.
Notably, the room is home to several thousands of the store’s most valuable works and pays tribute to Fup, a beloved store cat who roamed the stacks for nearly two decades.
Among its treasures, visitors can view the oldest book on the shelves, dated 1494, while the most expensive book, The Journals of Lewis and Clark, is securely kept behind bank vault doors, valued at a staggering $350,000.
### Café and Shopping Experience
Within Powell’s City of Books, visitors can also enjoy a delightful café experience courtesy of Guilder Cafe. Located in the cozy Southwest corner of the store, this light-filled café offers a curated menu that complements the literary atmosphere perfectly.
Serving their coffee brand, Junior’s Roasted Coffee, Guilder Cafe is beautifully decorated with homages to The Princess Bride, setting an inviting atmosphere for readers to relax with their latest purchase.
Beyond books, Powell’s offers a plethora of unique gift items. From artisan creations to Powell’s Books swag, customers can find ideal gifts for any book lover. While the Orange Room is known for its gift selection, themed trinkets are thoughtfully displayed throughout the store, adding additional layers of discovery for visitors.
### Events and Community Engagement
At Powell’s, the community and literature converge during exciting events hosted at the Basil Hallward Gallery in the Pearl Room. Monthly, acclaimed authors visit to share their works with audiences, enriching the cultural fabric of the bookstore.
Powell’s also participates in national events like Independent Bookstore Day, fostering community support for independent literature. This event typically features exclusive sales, drawing in both locals and visitors in droves.
Another notable spring event is Smallpresspalooza, showcasing an array of local and national small press authors, highlighting the importance of independent publishing.
### Celebration of Local Authors
Portland is home to numerous independent publishers, and Powell’s proudly features many local authors. In particular, visitors should explore the small press section in the Blue Room, where creative works from independent publishers are highlighted.
Notable local authors, including Ursula K. Le Guin and Mitchell S. Jackson, are readily available, underscoring the bookstore’s dedication to showcasing regional talent and diversity in literature.
### The Book Lovers’ Paradise
With its eclectic offerings, extensive selection, and community-focused philosophy, Powell’s City of Books has solidified its status as a beloved destination among locals and travelers. As a hub for book lovers, Portland boasts many smaller independent bookstores, creating a thriving culture of literary appreciation.
From Annie Bloom’s Books and Broadway Books to Mother Foucault’s Bookshop, the independent bookstore community in Portland enhances the reading experience for many enthusiasts.
In summary, Powell’s City of Books not only offers an unparalleled selection of literature but also serves as a cultural landmark, fostering community engagement, supporting local authors, and creating a welcoming space for bibliophiles. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the experience of exploring Powell’s City of Books is one that should not be missed.
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