Malaprop's Bookstore

I love this bookstore!!! It’s an Asheville staple and it is so important to support independently owned book stores! They have a nice selection of cards, post cards, stickers, planners, games, and puzzles, as well as books! They have many books of all different genres. There is a coffee shop attached to it, which is sweet. The staff can be a bit standoffish, but who cares when you are surrounded by books!

I went to a poetry reading. I really enjoyed the poets and browsing the store before the event. They had a small PA and comfortable seating. The staff was friendly and helpful.

One of my favorite places to be in all of the Carolinas! My wife and I will drive up from GVL often just to get lunch and then peruse around Malaprop’s. Even on days I don’t intend to buy anything, I still find myself leaving with a new book in hand because of the great options they carry. Love the staff picks section!

The staff is so welcoming and helpful. I feel at home here and I’m so grateful for the joy that has sparked within me finding this new book series. I hadn’t read a fantasy book in well over a decade. The kind gentleman searched the back for this last copy for me and I can’t thank him enough for gifting me a much needed fantasy book escape. I am also overjoyed by my new book light I bought from you as well. Thanks malaprops. -Pink helmet girl

This is one of the best indy bookstores I've visited, and I've been to many! The selection was incredible--so many books I haven't been able to find elsewhere, particularly nonfiction. I can't describe it exactly but it just felt curated close to perfection. Some great book club picks on display, a section of mass market paperbacks for a discount, blind date with a book section, and even a cart of free ARCs at the door. I didn't try the cafe when I visited but it seemed popular as well. Even their gift section was well thought out. Other independent bookstores should take notes, this one is close to perfect!

It's fun, cute, quirky, coffee smells delicious, & informative. Great place for reading, local authors & local interest, games, puzzles, & more. Staff was friendly but not in your face. Reminded me of a micro-Powell's! A must stop.

Visiting from Chicago, in need of something to read, the staff was super friendly and helpful. Other cities: Take note of Asheville’s “Where’s Waldo” hunt for kids. It helped this parent — and I assume other parents — enjoy some browsing time.

Awesome book selection and even better coffee items. The barista today was super friendly and was a joy to order from even with the steady line today she was relaxed and made some perfect drinks! A must visit hands down.

This place has a worthy reputation that proceeds it! I've heard of it, even all the way in Indiana. It's an absolutely delightful bookstore. So fun to walk around! You can tell the staff are knowledgeable about the books inside and care about the recommendations that they give. I bought one of their "blind date with a book" options and I think they have it a great description! They also mentioned when I bought it that if it turns out it's something I've already read, I have a day to bring it back and return it. So considerate! I wish I lived closer to this. :)

Overall: Great little cafe in the heart of downtown and nestled in the bookstore. The good: Friendly service that was quick once we got our orders in. The drinks were delicious and gave us energy for the day. Nice atmosphere tucked within the bookstore, so you can browse around too. Great location. The not-so-good: Prices are a little high for coffee drinks, but that's about it really.

Malaprop's Bookstore is a nice shop in downtown Asheville, offering a good selection of books that has something for everyone here. I can't ever resist a bookstore wherever I am, so naturally, I visited Malaprop's to see what it was all about. It's a local bookstore that will have that best seller, new release or that one book that's on every must-read list. If you're looking for a particular book, it's worth inquiring about it here. The bookstore itself isn't massive, but is a good size shop that has different genres that are well organized and clear to find, as well as a small café near the entrance. If you're walking around downtown Asheville and are a bibliophile, then you must pay Malaprop's a visit. Although they won't have all the books, you'll find the selection they have is a decent amount, and there are author events and readings. It would be a place I'd frequent if I lived in the area.

We have visited this bookstore on a previous trip to Asheville and were glad to return. Huge adult selection - the only thing I found a bit lacking is the smaller chapter book sections for those kids that are no longer needing picture books but aren't ready for middle grade books. However, I still love this place!

Malaprop's Bookstore is a great independent bookstore in Downtown Asheville where everyone is welcome. It is fun just to come in and browse while seeing what is new or the local books. I like that the store offers items that others stores do not. The staff is friendly and helpful which makes this store what it is and why it is in its 41st year. I never leave here empty handed and the shopping bags are so simple and cute.

We initially tried to go to the Battery Park Book Exchange, but it was closed and honestly...we are thrilled. A few shops we loved recommended Malaprop's and it was just such a lovely store. It is well-labeled/organized and has a great layout that invites you to stop and look as opposed to being crammed in tight rows with the masses. The discounted books, staff picks, random gifts, and new releases are towards the front. They have a great kids area and such friendly staff! My favorite part...the mystery books wrapped in opaque paper. They only label the outside by genre and an idea of the book themes and you take a gamble. This would be such a fun gift for an avid reader or a book club.

Love everything about this store. Only wish they'd stay open later like they used to pre-pandemic. Went there for date night coffee and book buying. Closed at 5pm on a Saturday :(

Independent bookstores are always a fun find, and I try to support them. If we want our small businesses to be around after COVID, we need to support them now. Recently, one of my favorite artists (Catana Chetwynd of Catana's Comics) published a book. Malaprops hosted an online, ticketed, event for those who purchased the book from them. This was a win for everyone- the artist got her work out to the public, the bookstore got business, and fans got a 60 minute Q&A via YouTube. I purchased my ticket and book online. On the day of the YouTube Q&A, Malaprops sent several confirmations with links, and the instructions for logging on were easy to understand. The event started on time, all technology worked well, and it was fun hearing one of my favorite artists answer audience questions. Malaprops hosted in-person events before COVID, but has done a great job moving them online. They actually host several per week, so if you're a book nerd and buy the book through them, you can attend. The book prices are MSRP and they ship for a nominal fee- curbside pick up is available if you're in the Asheville area. I hope to visit Malaprops' store post-pandemic. Until then, I'm glad to be able to support them with online purchases.

Always nice to visit an independent bookstore when you're in town. I was happy to see that other people had the same idea. Not a giant store but excellent selection. People were very nice. Try "blind date with a book" where you buy a mystery book based on a synopsis. They will let you try another if you already read it.

I can't say enough good things about this bookstore. It is legitimately one of my favorite places in the world. I have family in Asheville so I've been coming to this business off and on for the last several years, whenever I visit. Basically whenever I get a chance. It has the atmosphere of small bookstore, while actually being spacious, bright and chocked full of options. There is a giant section of wall dedicated to blind-date (paper wrapped) books with single-word descriptions written by employees which is addictive to any book-lover. There is a section for Knick knacks, posters, jewelry, magnets, etc. Plenty of local authors to choose from and there's even a tiny cafe connected (though I'm not sure how it's working out with COVID.) You don't want to miss this place!

Somehow "closed in 5 minutes" means you can't order expresso from the coffee shop since they are "already cleaning the expresso machine". Seems we have forgotten that you are open until you are closed. At the time you are closed.

What a great bookstore! It has everything you can hope to find. Every section is well-labeled; the variety is very wide for the size of the store. It reflects what a local bookstore should be all about - good selection, personalized recommendations, excellent customer service. I will be back!

Very cute. Great selection of local work which is always nice. There was a lot of variety and I found some new recs I'd never seen before.

One of my favorite places to visit in downtown Asheville! I love a good book, and this independent bookstore has a lot to offer. Walking into Malaprop's provides a welcoming and inviting experience. All the books are attractively displayed, organized by different genres and offering staff recommendations as well as a "book club". There is even a shelf where you can purchase "blind date books" that are wrapped up with a brief description and have to be bought before you know what you'll be reading! Malaprop's also features a cafe, although I have yet to order anything from there- next visit!

Cute bookstore with friendly people. It is small and I wish there was areas to sit and read and enjoy the bookstore vibes

Amazing place. Everyone was welcoming and able to help with any questions as well as offer suggestions. My book nerd heart was over joyed.

Exceptionally talented staff make this indy bookstore one of the best in the US. They also have the best selection of local and artisanal greeting cards.

Only giving a 1-star because a negative star rating was not available. I love privately owned bookstores, but Malaprop's Bookstore's staff needs a lesson in customer service. Great that Asheville wants to be eccentric, but this is still a business. I went and inquired on two books to supplement my class' library section. The person at the counter seemed irritated that I asked for assistance. He interrupted me asking my questions. His pay is supported by my buying books. The manager needs to be trained up also.

Solid, if somewhat standard, bookstore in the downtown area. For me, a bookstore is best when it surprises you with its offerings: perhaps a unique section, or some used volumes, or accessories unavailable at the standard chain bookstore. Yes, this bookstore is well stocked and well organized, and even came across some excellent and unexpected books. For the typical shopper, this is your place.

Went back recently and still in love with this place. This day and age we need more places like this. The store is accepting of all and has a TON of diversity- both in its people and books. They do not discriminate and offer a space the contributes to the community. The staff is also kind and the store dynamic. While they have mostly books, you can also find games, stationary, cards and art here as well

I love checking out different bookstores, and this one is definitely worth a look. On the smaller side, this popular shop is full of oldies and newbies, a variety of genres, even a cafe. Very busy on a Saturday afternoon. I also fell in love with a concept I've only seen in Asheville... Blind Date Books! Books wrapped up so you cannot see the covers, just a few quick descriptions on the front to see if you'll "hit it off" - what a fun idea! Lots of cool trinkets and non-books as well. Only downside, did not see any used books (my go-to) and prices were on higher side. Would return.

What a gem!! I loved this cute little store and cafe. I love that they had a small cart of books that were unedited by publishers or arcs that were free. I loved how they had a "blind date with a book section." I loved their staff picks. Everything was just *chefs kiss*

I just love Malaprop's! It's not the same as pre-Covid but then, what is? The coffee shop is currently closed and you should make an appointment to browse the store but if they aren't busy you can go in, no problem. They take down your information, name and number, in case there's a Covid report from a customer just so they can text you. I actually really appreciate them going out of there way like that. I ALWAYS find something to buy, whether I intend to or not! Check it out, especially if you love old fashioned book stores!

So cute. The staff was able to help me pick out a young adult book. Lots to choose from and unique gifts and cards.

Support your local book store! This has been and is always a gem. I love just walking thru and seeing what kind of weird stuff they have to offer. Love the mystery book offers. 12 bucks fantastically well spent!!!

I don't know if the walk up window is new but I've never been before. The person working the window was INCREDIBLE and the service was fast! Loved the drink suggestion and will stop by again soon. I was sad to not go inside due to Covid restrictions but will order a book for pickup! Happy a local business is taking Covid seriously

The management and staff at Malaprops are generally not helpful and very snobbish. They are not friendly and act as if they are the only bookstore in town. I have been a customer for 5 years since I moved to Asheville, giving them repeated chances to improve, and I now refuse to buy a book from them ever again. It is a shame since I believe in supporting local businesses. I take my business to Barnes and Noble where the staff bends over backward to help.

When I visit Asheville, this is almost the first place I visit, always the place I visit downtown. Once, Summer 1986, I visited every day while repairing my 1971 VW bus. Of late, the shop retains its wisdom. Check online at malaprops.com but visit in person.

Hope you like lesbian 'woman's issues' books, because they dominate the inventory. Also , you'll pay full price for everything To top off the insult, their bathrooms have been "Out of order' for about 12 weeks now. If they don't want people coming in just to use their restrooms. Just be honest about it. This used to be a great bookstore. Now. It isn't

It's been many years since I've been to Asheville, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that Malaprop's is still here. It's actually one of my favorite places to hang out in Asheville. They have a great well curated book selection, plus journals, games, and puzzles. It's a terrific go to spot for smooth lattes, an independent bookstore and community icon which has stood the test of time.

We visited four independent bookstores in Asheville. This was our favorite. Excellent selection, nice staff, fun gifts. Highly recommend!

We stopped in here after wandering around downtown and at first we were stopped by the signs saying that browsing was by appointment only but they did accept walk ins. Fortunately it wasn't too busy and we were allowed in. We got to browse around for an hour and I loved the selection of books here. Lots of familiar titles that I have read and others that are on my list to read. I also saw titles that were staff picks that I hadn't heard of before. We loved spending the afternoon here and would recommend any book lover to stop in!

When visiting Asheville, we always make a stop at the Battery Park Book Exchange. I was so pleasantly surprised when we stumbled upon this place. It's super cute with a great selection of books and gifts. I purchased some bookmarks for my book club friends. I also loved their blind book section. What an awesome idea! I spent a lot of time just combing through their stuff and filling my arms with things to buy. I will definitely be back next time we're in town. *This review is from a pre-COVID visit.

One of my favorite indie bookstores in NC! They have a whole section of signed books & the staff is great! Always stopping in while I'm in town!

Visit Asheville for a few days every March. I drop by Malaprops every time. Good coffee with a cool setup inside the eclectic looking bookstore. I'm a coffee black guy. Brews are always solid. Don't think I've ever gotten a fancy mix so can't speak to barista prowess, but I'm guessing it's more than ample. Friendly people who always make me feel welcome.

This is quite a cute place. It is a book store with a little cafe too. I did not spend a lot of time here so my review is going to be somewhat limited. They are larger than they first appear to be. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful. They offer quite a nice selection of books and I did make a purchase. We sat in the cafe area and some fresh water. It has a very nice and relaxed vibe. Would make a great place to read, do work or study as well. I love places like this and I just wish I'd had more time to spend there.

Book stores don't get much better than this! Malaprop's is chocked full of books making it somewhat of a tight space to navigate, but that's a positive aspect. Upon entering your senses are inundated with the aroma of books. You know, that wonderful, comforting smell you used to experience in book stores. Just makes you want to linger and peruse the shelves and tables for your next great read. Settle in at the coffee bar and read a bit or surf the web a while. Make note of the upcoming book signings - there are several each week. This is a true reader's bookstore. The kind you don't find much any more. Shift into a lower gear and the experience.

It's always fun to make a pit stop at this bookstore on the main drag. Great place for coffee, good reads, and kitschy gifts.

Would have loved to shop at Malaprop's - but no one from outside if NC permitted. Too bad - they missed $$ spent by a person who has followed every regulation and precaution for the last year - and who has been vaccinated. Maybe next time I'll bother to shop there. I did love that people in Asheville wore masks - but so did we!

Great bookstore. Nothing out of the ordinary. We were able to find a book from the area for our toddler, which I appreciate.

Adorable little book store tucked away in the heart of downtown Asheville. Love the comfy laid back atmosphere. Book isles carpeted with woven rugs. And there are just so many places to sit and read. The coffee shop has a friendly and helpful staff. My London Fog was made to order, and super yummy. The brewed coffee was very hot (bonus points from us for this!) and delicious. This was the a lovely little place to enjoy a warm cup of Coffee & Tea and check out books on a cold day. So glad I took my daughters recommendation to check this place out! I will be back ... often!

This is a delightful independent* bookstore in downtown Asheville. They have snacks and a great selection of books. There's a delightful "blind date with a bookseller" section where you can buy a book after seeing adjectives but not the cover. I did that, got a book based on the adjectives you can see and it was GREAT. Also, a book I'd never heard of and wouldn't have otherwise picked up. Check out Malaprop's when you're in town! *I assume?

What a lovely bookstore! The selections were great and the staff were friendly. Although we weren't able to attend any, it looks like they also host a fair amount of author talks and book launch events! Additionally, the cafe has vegan and gluten free baked good, delicious coffee and outdoor seating! I left caffeinated, full of cookies and with two new books!

Awesome bookstore in downtown Asheville! I always have to walk in for a laugh, definitely a must visit if you are in the area. Where else can you find hand sanitizer from your cat? #thanksforscoopingmypoop (And, yes, I did just hashtag for that)

Me and my family were very disappointed with the book store. We have gone their because my sister wanted to go and the sign outside said they were closed but people were walking in and out. Their was also another sign in the door and it said "Event in progress" but my family went in . My mother said can we take a quick peek and the lady said "NO NO NO!" so my family left. No employee should EVER act like that to a customer especially if we just wanted to take a quick peek inside!

A local favorite! Love their author events. Lose track of time every visit because there is so much goodness to discover! Yay for independent book stores.

Wow! This place is awesome. I loved all the unique journals and items for sale. I can't wait to come back sometime when I have more time to really investigate it. They have a cafe but it's currently a window outside like a drive through with covid.

This is a nice little book store, and I totally recommend giving this place a visit. Though I think it is quite overrated, given the selection they have here and the prices of their books and funky merchandise. I think the primary reason it's popular is because it is Asheville and people who visit this place haven't had the ability to experience places like Bookmans in Flagstaff Arizona. Still, it has become North Carolina's version of Powell's, and they have book signings and events weekly, so they are definitely a place to be if you love books and book related events. Another great part of this place is the cafe, which has a nice selection of drinks, and their pastries are delicious. I spent quite a bit of time here reading and enjoying their pastries on my last visit. There aren't many places like this in NC, so I would definitely take the time to support this business if you are ever in town.

Eh, cool place I guess. It's crowded and there's a cafe inside. Honestly, it's just like going to a Barnes & Noble. Everything felt the same, including the book prices. They're outrageous. It's pretty touristy. Go down the street to the used book place, and you can probably find that book you're looking at for half the price or less

Absolutely must drop in to check this place out! Not only is there a great selection of books, but the staff goes the extra mile by adding bookmarks with handwritten notes to their favorite reads. The Blind Date with a Book is one of the favorite things as well -- I have grabbed books from this shelf twice & have always loved what I unwrapped! The staff is also very friendly & personable. I picked up a Blanche Devereaux (Golden Girls) pin while checking out & the clerk chatted with me about when the actress made a stop into the store years ago. Although I haven't tried the cafe yet, I am a fan of the literary names for their drinks.