lowercase books

The dedication the owner has toward ensuring the store is well stocked with interesting books, records, zines, and other art pieces is unseen in other bookstores in the area. This place is vital to the Knoxville community and deserves to be recognized, frequented, and supported more! The great thing is no matter how often you go in, there will always be something new to catch your eye. Book prices here are more than fair. It is possible to gain a bookshelf worth of literature at a small price, and you can feel assured there are no bad choices in the store due to Bryce’s knowledgeable curation. Trade in your books here!

I've been on a bit of a tour of local bookstores in Knoxville, and lowercase books was the one whose vibe I enjoyed the most. I really enjoyed that the collection seemed curated but eclectic, esoteric without being inaccessible, which helped me get the feeling of aimless browsing and discovery that I remember from my childhoods at the original McKay's location. I especially enjoyed that small cubbies with specific labels, like "space and futurism." There were also some fantastic old pulp-y sci-fi covers, which I love. We just happened to go while some local(?) bands were setting up for a show, which really let us see how lowercase books is not just a store, but also a center for community (and gave me the confusing experience of hearing rap overlaid with incredibly loud U2 as the band checked the speakers). The owner was also helpful and friendly in a very genuine way; I could tell that he really cared about books and enjoyed talking with customers about the books as people, not just as customers. This shop was an unexpected but welcome discovery!

Excellent new and used bookstore with a really superb inventory. The books in each section invariably contain some of the classic works in that genre, in affordable editions, and often with amazing cover or interior art. This is a bookstore for people who like to read books! The owner is very helpful, and is a great source of advice on authors... I find or am recommended something good every time I go in.

Just from randomly stepping into this store one day in 2022, I can say I found more community here than I had in my previous 5 years in this city. I know others feel just a connected and committed to supporting lowercase. There is a great music scene that has evolved around the space as Bryce is so gracious as to allow local and traveling bands to perform at his store. There are so many appeals when considering to stop in, honestly it is moreso an exciting adventure as to what will catch your eye that day than you’re typical mundane, unsatisfying (sometimes overwhelming) attempt as buying books other places. Bryce’s willingness to help others on their book buying journey is the appeal.

I love this place, it's easily one of the best businesses to open in Knoxville. Excellent selection of books with great prices and there are both new and used books. The owner is very knowledgeable about his stock and gives great recommendations. They host a lot of shows here with small and local bands, and I absolutely love going to them. The upcoming shows are listed on the store's website -- if you're interested in getting to know the Knoxville music scene, coming here is a must!

It’s every bookworm’s dream to have a bookstore within a block of their house, and somehow my wildest dreams came true. This is a super cute and endearing bookstore with a very interesting and offbeat inventory, a delightful puzzle selection, and even some vinyls. They often have bands and events, so they’re all-around a great neighbor and addition to Parkridge.

Cozy vibes and a surprising catalog (left with something I didn't know existed and am very excited to read). Love all the local bands that play here, you wouldn't assume it'd make a good venue but it's like a house show with actual parking. Will be back soon!

I absolutely adored my trip to lowercase books. Bryce was exceedingly kind and helpful, warming in the space with music and his considerate choices in records. I purchased two books and Bryce gave me a lovely bookmark to go with.

great vibes. great selection & prices on used & rare & vintage books. most used bookstores are cluttered, disorganized, and feel more like sifting through a haystack to find the needle. lowercase book's selection is curated and i feel like i could close my eyes, grab a book, and have made a good and interesting choice. awesome events too.