How to Experience Seattle's Literary Scene and Bookstores?
Seattle has been for many years considered as a reader’s paradise, together with its ever wet days that are ideal for reading and coffee and tea sipping. Seattle was named a UNESCO City of Literature, which means that it is teeming with bookstores and book-related events, as well as comfortable literary corners for reading. Whether you’re a Seattle resident obsessed with literature, or a tourist visiting this beautiful city, read on to find out how to get involved with this great community.
Explore Independent Bookstores
The heart of Seattle's literary community lies in its many independent bookstores. Start your journey at the iconic Elliott Bay Book Company in Capitol Hill. This sprawling bookstore features cedar shelves stocked with over 150,000 titles, a cafe for leisurely browsing, and frequent author events.
For a cozier and more personal experience check to Twice Sold Tales in Capitol Hill. This used bookstore has multiple floors and a unique feature in terms of its narrow and twisty structures and its resident cats which feel free to wander among the bookshelves. Poetry lovers shouldn't miss Open Books: A Pioneer Square based A Poem Emporium that is the only second poetry only bookstore in the country.
For sci-fi and or technical books, head over to Capitol Hill to Ada’s Technical Books and Café. This is a specialized store in science, technology, and sci-fi books that is supplemented with a small cafe for comfortable reading newly bought books.
Before you go to the bookstore, you can ask Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy to clean your house for you. Seeing the neatly arranged surroundings which are expected of you, you will have sufficient space where you can place all the new books you expect to buy!
Attend Literary Events
Seattle's literary calendar is packed with author readings, book launches, and literary festivals throughout the year. Check the event schedules at local bookstores, libraries, and literary centers like Hugo Hous for the possible upcoming readings and signings.
Seattle Arts & Lectures is a prestigious series of events that invite writers and speakers of international acclaim to the city for a speech. Previous speakers have included such writers as Margaret Atwood, Ta-Nehisi Coates, and Zadie Smith.
The Sorrento Hotel hosts one of the most enhanced literary events: The Silent Reading Party where you read in complete silence. This bi-weekly occasion encourages people to come to the hotel’s ornate Fireside lounge dressed in Victorian style, sit side by side with strangers, and read silently in the presence of live piano music.
Discover Literary Landmarks
Self-guided tour through Seattle is to bring tourists close to the legendary authors who used to dwell in this city. Go to the Richard Hugo House – a writers’ center located in Seattle and named in honour of an American poet who authored over twenty books; get a taste of writing classes, workshops, and writing events for beginners and advanced writers.
Stroll through the University of Washington campus, David Guterson and Charles Johnson are some of the writers that spent their time teaching. A visit cannot be complete without viewing the fantastic Suzzallo Library with its Gothic structure and ceiling that rise 65 feet in the Graduate Reading Room.
For a glimpse into Seattle's literary past, visit the Blue Moon Tavern in the University District. This historic dive bar has been a hangout for writers and poets since the 1930s, including Allen Ginsberg, Theodore Roethke, and Tom Robbins.
Join a Book Club or Writing Group
Want to become a better writer? Attend more writer’s meetings or join a book group in Seattle. Most bookstores and libraries offer weekly book club meetings, or you may gather information on local groups through various online platforms like Meetup or Goodreads.
Newbie writers will find at Hugo House basic and advanced writing classes and workshops as well as opportunity to read own works during open mike evenings. There are also other meeting organized by The Seattle Writers Meetup Group which comprises of standard writing sessions and critique meetings.
Cozy Up in Literary Cafes
Coffee culture and literary culture are inseparable matters in Seattle. Walk through the city and choose a cozy cafe for reading or writing in the afternoon. Cafe Allegro in the University District is said to be Seattle’s oldest espresso bar and has also been frequented by students, writers, and others for many years.
The Elliott Bay Cafe situated within Elliott Bay Book Company is a perfect place to start reading your new book. If you are in the mood of the more unusual bar, Ada’s Technical Books and Cafe is an excellent choice; the bar has science-inspired cocktails, and books are selected to match the theme.
Embrace the Digital Literary Scene
While physical bookstores and in-person events are the heart of Seattle's literary scene, don't overlook the city's digital literary offerings. Follow local authors, bookstores, and literary organizations on social media to stay up-to-date on virtual events and online book clubs.
The Seattle Public Library offers a vast collection of e-books and audiobooks through their digital platforms, allowing you to explore Seattle's literary world from the comfort of your home.
From checking out unique local bookstores to listening to authors and sipping hot drinks in literature-themed cafes, a literary paradise exists in Seattle. Joining book clubs and literary events in the city will not only introduce you to new books and authors you might like but will also engage you with like-minded people who appreciate books. Thus, pick up a book of your choice, get comfortable, and let the bibliophilic charm of Seattle take you to a whole new level of imagination and inspiration.
