How To Find Your Romeo While Reading Casanova In New York

Though small in size, the store is abounding with all types of literature. A bit cramped and cozy, you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something secret. Plus, physically “BUMPING INTO” someone happens frequently, you just have to hope that they’re sexy. I wouldn’t suggest however bumping into the employees cause we want to avoid getting kicked out of bookstores for gropping, not that I would know- I’m just sayin’.

Mystery buffs, you are not alone. Or, you’re not as creepy as I thought you were- after visiting this book store I discovered, my inner Sherlock.

Activists, Feminists, Free Thinkers, Radicals, UNITE! You can find workshops, discussions, and organic/vegan treats while debating all things….rad? And if you don’t have any fierce opinions yet, you can at least sit and stuff yourself while eavesdropping on these “serious thinkers.”

Located in the East Village, this is the perfect place for all you bookish NYU students. If you’re looking to find a romeo here, you must be aware that their idea of a date if probably Top Ramen in their dorm or falafel on the street corner, which is only cute if you’re being whimsical and you’ve been dating awhile. Lord knows I don’t need another NYU-er asking if I can “spare him some cash” for a jar of peanut butter. Just be aware.

A quiet neighboorhood haven, this bookstore has charm and an incredibly helpful staff, example: When I saw the clerk chatting with an attractive “regular” I asked her for his name and she gladly divulged the info to enable my stalker mission. Not only did I follow the mission, I ended up chatting with this sexy stranger later in the evening at his band’s show. High five to me. Still waiting for date number two…

Strand is the MECCA of bookstores. Strand would win in the ring, if it were up against Barnes and Noble or Borders. Strand, is a heavy weight champ. Strand also knows that poor people enjoy a good novel just as much as the rich folks, and the $1 bookshelves are indeed helpful if you’re on a budget. Pack a lunch, spend the day, sell your books and discover new ones. The best part is buying the books that say “not for sale” that are released early by publishers. After I bought “Sex and Bacon” by Sarah Katherine Lewis for a solid buck, I had the perfect book with a title that led t many conversation starters…“So what exactly IS Sex and Bacon about…” and everyone always likes an excuse to talk about sex, I prefer chatting about bacon.

Study Salman Rushdie while drinking a brewski. This bookstore/cafe has new, used and rare books that you can read while munching on a sandwich, drinking vino, listening to live music or a reading. Also, you can feel good about spending the dough, 100% of the profits go to a non-profit organization benefiting New Yorker’s living with HIV/AIDS.