Black Garnet Books

This is a real gem of St. Paul! I spent an hour looking around, enjoying the books, and finding a few new favorites to bring home. They have a delightfully inclusive and curated selection of books across genres that is sure to give you a great addition to your bookshelf. They have comfy chairs, and table to study at, a complementary hot beverage station, and a perfectly lit ambiance that sets the tone for a great read. I came for a mystery book, but left with a delightful children’s book for my niece, a beautiful puzzle, and a fidget toy I can’t wait to open. The staff was lovely and helpful, and I can’t wait to return. I’ll be back soon. They are also right next to a tasty bubble tea shop that’s worth stopping at on your way in. Free parking in the back, so don’t stress!

Very cool, inclusive, and welcoming bookstore. They do have a decent manga section and some very cool stickers for sale.

Now is the time to support independently-owned bookstores! They have a great selection, friendly staff! They also have a section for the kiddos too, which I appreciate. 💖

Great bookstore! Knowledgeable, friendly staff who love talking books with customers. They host cool events and have a great, carefully curated book selection as well as neat puzzles and things made by indie artists. Highly recommend them!

This bookshop is unlike other bookshops, I travel to bookshops around the U.S and this is very modern styled and I love it. They stepped away from the home and cozy feel but it works so well. They have a great collection of books, it not crowded with books but you will find what your looking for, I would say the books that are there are intentional almost. Not only did I go home with a book, and some bookish accessories but I wanted to take the plants home too!!

A wonderful addition to the neighborhood, Black Garnet Books offers a vibrant curation of books celebrating authors and illustrators of color. This bookstore is a truly welcome addition to the literature space as they create an opportunity to seek out new voices and perspectives that you might not find browsing the shelves of other bookstores. Much love to this local gem! I always appreciate the opportunity to support a local business, and it's made even easier through the opportunity to support an inspiring mission!

Great service! Placed a large book order for a Women's Network Book Club. Team at Black Garnet Books was great with communication, billing, and even helped load books in the car. Above and beyond service - Thank you!

The only queer, Black-owned brick-and-mortar bookstore in MN! This was a lovely space, the shelves were gorgeous, the staff was friendly and attentive, and there was a sweet dog who greeted us at the door 🖤 I am honored that I had the opportunity to go it was #1 thing on my to visit list.

What a cute and perfect little gem in St. Paul! Offering a huge variety of books from lots of different authors, and tons of gifts, toys, and kids' options! Check it out when you are in the neighborhood!

I love this new book store in the Twin Cities! My biggest critique of other bookstores is that there aren't enough diverse books but now I never have to worry about that again! Black Garnet Books is focused entirely on curating a wide selection by authors & illustrators of color. They have an amazing children's book selection, perfect for me as books are my go-to gift for young ones in my life. But there's more than books here for any gift needs you have for yourself, workplace, or others. I got some nice cards for staff here during the holidays & there's also stationary, pins, games, toys & art prints from local BIPOC artists. I've been here multiple times now and love the vibe & selection each time I walk in. The space is colorful, fun, airy, w/ natural light & plants around. There's some tables & chairs to relax in & cute area for kids. The staff have always been friendly as well. You can buy/reserve books online & pick-up in the store. I've used this super easy system when I didn't have much time to browse & was looking for a specific book. Lastly, there's free, open off street parking in the back which is super convenient. I dunno if it was planned but this bookstore is also next to a boba shop so you can do what I do and hit up both boba & this awesome bookstore when you're in the area!