WORD

Book store · Greenpoint

WORD

Book store · Greenpoint

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126 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

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Highlights

Word Brooklyn is a cozy indie bookstore in Greenpoint with expertly curated reads, quirky gifts, a kids’ nook, and lively author events.  

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126 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222 Get directions

wordbookstores.com
@wordbookstores

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126 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222 Get directions

+1 718 383 0096
wordbookstores.com
@wordbookstores

$$

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Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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@onthegrid

On the Grid : Word

"Word is an independent bookstore that opened its doors in 2007. They carry a fantastically large collection of books for such a small space. Everything from cookbooks to children's books, and old classics to New York Times best sellers. They excel in paperback fiction, which takes up a sizable portion of the shelf space. Your best bet is to keep an open mind when looking for a book. You'll probably find a hidden gem that you didn’t know existed." - Milkshake

https://onthegrid.city/brooklyn/greenpoint/word
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@afar

"Word Brooklyn Swing by this independent neighborhood bookstore for a new recommendation from staff who really know their stuff. There's also a well-curated stash of greeting cards with personality, kids games, and knickknacks. Word hosts author Q&As as well as ongoing reading clubs and even potlucks. It's been a Greenpoint fixture since 2007 and opened an offshoot in Jersey City in 2013."

The Perfect Weekend in New York City
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A J Myers

Google
Lovely small business with a great selection of books.

Lisa Williams

Google
A great shop...clearly curated collection and browsing was a joy. For those who still love a physical book like me, this is the kind of bookstore to look around for a bit. No pressure to buy from the lovely gentleman who warmly greeted everyone who came in. I will continue to drop in whenever I'm in the area to see what books are being highlighted.

Maritza Henriquez

Google
I have been visiting this bookstore for years, and sadly every single time I do I have the same very strange eerie experience that I can only connect to racism/classism. Every time I come in, I am never greeted until I say hello first, and it always seems like staff are uncomfortable with my presence. I will not be returning, officially.

Daniel Pino

Google
WORD Bookstore Layout/atmosphere *First floor - fiction books; basement - nonfiction books; graphic novels; puzzles; small stage Purchased here: *Bartleby & Me: Reflections of an Old Scrivener *On Air: The Triumph & Tumult of NPR *The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet

Nathaniel Kressen

Google
longstanding institution of the neighborhood, a home for community artists, great selection, recommended as follows: chat with a friendly staffer, buy whatever book they name as their latest obsession (always killer), improve thy life

Jeofrey “Jay Jay” Gacad

Google
super welcoming and friendly staff THE MINUTE YOU WALK IN! also, they were very patient and generous with their timem

Kenneth Ross

Google
Word, the bookstore in Brooklyn, is an absolute gem. The moment you step inside, you're transported to a literary wonderland. The selection of books is outstanding, catering to a diverse range of interests. The staff's knowledge and passion for books shine through, making recommendations a pleasure. The welcoming ambiance invite you to lose track of time exploring the world of literature. Five stars for Word - a true haven for book lovers!

Nahiyan Khan

Google
Great selection of books! Very friendly staff.
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Chelsea P.

Yelp
I've been meaning to get to WORD for the longest and was finally able to come here and it's such a quaint small bookstore and although people were annoying and getting in the way or not saying excuse me I enjoyed the intimate-ness of it honestly . It felt like home and cozy . I was able to pick up two books I've been meaning to read and the bookeepers were very kind and sweet . I can't wait to return
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Susan L.

Yelp
I was trying to get ahold of a book that was still listed in print but which seemed to be unavailable everywhere, and Word was one of the stores I called. The woman I spoke to was *very* friendly & helpful, and the woman I later spoke to (for an update) was also very friendly.
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Daniela L.

Yelp
There aren't a ton of independent bookstores in Brooklyn's Greenpoint neighborhood, but WORD is undoubtedly my favorite of them all. It's very small, so the selection is limited, but from what I can tell, they carry a relatively diverse assortment of popular titles. If you're in search of a specific book and want to make sure it's in stock beforehand, you can check their website. They also have a second, newer store in Jersey City, though I have yet to make the trip there. I've visited WORD a few times, both to browse and to buy. I had trouble finding what I was looking for and asked an employee to point me in the right direction, and they couldn't have been nicer. So besides the fact that I like to support independent bookstores whenever possible, I'd return again and again to experience the great customer service here.
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S S.

Yelp
This is a fun little bookstore in Greenpoint Brooklyn. They have a really cute section in the back for children. I picked up a book for my 3 year old nephew. They also have a women- owned section that has candles and pencils etc. Staff was nice.

Allison L.

Yelp
Big supporter of shopping local, but was extremely disappointed with my visit today. I am a member of the loyalty program offered by the store, and last weekend received a $5 reward for my next purchase. I specifically asked the bookseller last week (1) when it expired and (2) if I needed the physical coupon. She informed me that it never expired and it was linked to my account so all I had to do was come back! I came back today, excited to use my reward. However, today's bookseller told me a different story and said the "system resets itself" so they need the physical receipt. To receive conflicting information within a week was extremely disappointing. She even stood there and starred at me to restock the book myself. There are plenty of other good independent bookstores who provide much better customer service than I was treated with today. Last time I go out of my way to visit - not worth it!
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Carolina S.

Yelp
I've always loved "WORD"! I'm a complete sucker for independent bookstores with little nooks and crannies. And how I can I not mention, Word is also in my favorite neighborhood, Greenpoint. I recently came for the book release for Scott Crawford's "Spoke". A look at D.C. Hardcore scene in the eighties. I have never been to the shop for an event even though I've spotted a number of them I was interested in. It pays to keep an eye on their FB event page. The event was set up in the basement, there's about 30 seats, a cooler of chilling Founder's All Day IPA's cans and a tiny stage for the panel. The panel consisted of Scott Crawford who also did the documentary "Salad Days", Jim Saah photographer who did a chunk of the photography in Salad Days, Andy Rapoport from King Face and Michael Hampton from Faith, Embrace & SOA. It was incredibly interesting to here stories of being in that bubble of a musical movement in D.C. I found the event to be even more inspiring with what's going on now in America. A lot of the issues that the youth were fighting against are the issues that are unfortunately coming back with a vengeance. And it's been over 30 years. I bought the book and had everyone sign it. Hannah the organizer did a great job with the event. The moderator Tobias Carroll did a good job with bringing in the right questions to the table! I have also joined to frequent buyer card. I intend in supporting this small business that is still promoting one of my favorite past times, reading.
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Karen S.

Yelp
I came here first at the spur of the moment to secure my book for Allie Brosh's signing of, "Hyperbole and a Half". As soon as I saw that there would be only one signing in NY during her brief book tour, and that there were a limited amount of hardcovers printed, I set my alarm and called first thing in the morning to have a book held for me. Being an eternal pessimist, I was waiting to be told that either they were out of hardcovers or that they couldn't hold one for me. But the woman on the phone cheerfully took my name and put it on hold. Yay! Later in the day I went to pick it up. I was too paranoid to just leave it there until the next day, the day of the signing. The thing that shocked me was how small the space was. There must be some huge room in the back, right? Do they not realize how popular Allie Brosh is??? ...thought the woman who only discovered her 6 months ago... The next day I made a return trip with book in hand. Whoa. There's a line down the block. I mean way down the block. I'd read that the tickets for the talk were sold out but I figured that the bulk of the people would inside somewhere. Nope. The store is about as small as it looks and the hundred or so of us who showed up were camped out in the street. For. 6. Hours. No... I'm not exaggerating. As I waited, I had lots of time to ponder about this choice of location for this event. Someone's got the hook-up. This was a big "get" for an independent bookstore squirreled away in Greenpoint. Nice work, owner. Nice work. And thank you for the mini cupcakes. But you know what would have killed... coffee. I would have sold my first born for a cup of coffee. I really wish you had room in your store for coffee. And a chair. Just one comfy chair. I wanted to bemoan my fate for having the last letter-group ticket (A-I... of course I'd be I) but once I found out that Allie was not only signing books but drawing in them, taking photos, putting on dinosaur costumes, and having meaningful conversations with her adoring fans, I pulled up my big girl panties and set in for the long haul. One Task Rabbit woman was just not up to the challenge and complained bitterly about missing the Red Sox playing in the World Series. Hey... priorities people. Being about the 5th to last person in line, and it being 1 AM, I was not at my sparkly best by the time I met Allie. But amazingly, she was. While we waited, we were asked to draw something in return for Allie's drawing. I, in the spirit of "Hyperbole and a Half" made a drawing accompanied by text. Allie was so gracious about it. I really hope she kept it. With my book signed "PARP!" and photo taken for posterity, I stumbled my way home in the dark of night clutching my prize. It was worth it.
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Jill S.

Yelp
This is a really excellent book store. It's pretty small, but has a good selection and a variety of different kinds of books. Anything that they don't have they'll order for you and you'll have it in about a week. The good thing about doing this through the store, rather than Amazon, is that you don't have to deal with UPS or having to trek over to the post office where they'll have lost your package. (Greenpoints post office is the worst!) They have a frequent buyer program where if you spend $100 you get a $5 coupon. If you live in the neighborhood you'll reach your first $100 in no time. There are lots of events, which can be pretty interesting. They also serve free wine at these. :-)
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Mandy O.

Yelp
Books. REAL books. I read about a book and a half to two every week.Save this e-reader nonsense craze for someone else. I received a Nook for Christmas 3 years ago and if I've used it more than 10 times I'd be shocked. I don't have to worry about getting sand in my book at the beach, my book doesn't have a battery that can die, and I can bring my book into the tub which is my favorite place to read. Being a patron of actual ink and paper makes it possible for these wonderful, independent shops to stay open and I encourage you to do the same. WORD has an amazing selection of books inside this funky little space. It's perfect for a reader who is all over the board in their reading plus they have a great selection of local authors works. In addition, they have a section of local handmade handicrafts, cards, and other baubles which you will impulse buy. The very sweet and attentive shopgirl noticed what kind of books i was perusing and made some other suggestions. You can hardly get helpful and knowledgeable service at the chain retailers. Plus, I noticed they had a ton of events like readings, workshops, literary discussions, and special guest appearances (Michael Ian Black will be here at the end of this month). Very much a gem that I wish I was close to on a regular basis but I will definitely go out of my way to come here again.
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Vivian H.

Yelp
This is a very cool bookstore in Greenpoint. Here is why: -Very well curated selection of books. I mean they have Alain de Botton's new book, "Religion for Atheists." This is one of my favorite authors. - They have a community board where you can post for rentals or look for roommates. They also have a singles board too! This is the old-fashioned way to find a date! -Impressive children's section despite the small space! -Very cool shops nearby, so you can waste away a whole afternoon in this part of town! We need to support these independent booksellers or else we will be faced with BN taking over the book world. Down with capitalism!
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Beatrice W.

Yelp
A new addition to Greenpoint and a welcome one. The store is lovely, right across the street from "The American Playground" at the corner of Milton Street. They have a wonderful selection of children books, and a lovely setting of table and chairs to encourage them to become lifelong readers. There is also a very nice selection of adult fiction and non fiction books. The store carries wonderful stationery as well perfect for gift giving or to reward oneself. I specially liked the Wonder Woman self folding stationery. Register your name at the counter and receive $5 off with every $50 purchase. Nice way to built a loyal customer base, but they already have me with the books. I have been missing a bookstore in this neighborhood for 10 years. The store is open Tuesday to Sunday, and well worth the visit
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Lauren R.

Yelp
I love local bookshops and Word doesn't disappoint. It's small, but has a great variety of fiction, non-fiction, and many books about New York City. They also have greeting cards and an assortment of interesting items from pens to note cards, etc. The staff is friendly and can order books for you, in case you can't find what you are looking for. They also have a rewards program that you can sign up for if you are a frequent buyer. If you want to check out a cute bookstore in Greenpoint, Word is the place to go!
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Layla R.

Yelp
Such a magical little place. Organized so you can find what you're looking for without any confusion. Kind staff and solid selection of books on display.
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Angelica N.

Yelp
It's a great little book store-- It's way better then the huge corporation like B&N. I love to support local businesses. The staff is friendly. They have great insight to the books. I love that they have books that are recommended by the staff. If they don't have a book in stock they can order it for you and most likely you will have it in about a day or 2 at the most. Very cozy!
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Eprom B.

Yelp
Got yelled at here because the front door is broken, and it swung open in the cold; I went out of my way to pull it closed as I entered the establishment, and looked back specifically at the door to ensure this since it was so chilly out. Couldn't even look at a book; had to leave because of the rude outburst of one employee, who shouted "Ohhh my God" in a inflammatory and childish manner while everyone glared at me as if I were a despicable criminal. This stuffed-sweater of an employee just put their head down after shouting and did not apologize; their jovial pineapple-express type of co-worker sort of joked to perhaps diffuse the tension that had been created, but instead their giggling words amounted to mockery. Order your books online unless you need a team of 2-3 jerks to act pompous, foolish, and disrespectful like these people do--no thanks.
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Fallopia T.

Yelp
Yes, I love WORD; I was first here last winter for a booksigning, and this past week I came back to Greenpoint to care for a friend's cat. It's a very community-minded bookstore, and is a comfortable two-level storefront; book signings are often held in the space downstairs. I don't live close to Greenpoint, or I'd make it here much more often; this bookstore is conducive to browsing, schmoozing, and reading.
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Matthew S.

Yelp
Thank the sweet Lord in Heaven above for independent bookstores. Mark my words: we will be eternally sorry as a country and a civilization when we let all of these wonderful institutions slip through our stupid little fingers into the corporate, big-boxed void. You MUST support them. And if you live in/visit Greenpoint you must support this one. Its stock is small (as is the store) but diverse and geared to the discerning book lover. Great new fiction mixed with classics mixed with fascinating nonfiction. And I'm sure they could order anything for you. The also have a fantastic children's section complete with a perfect little reading area. You'll also find super cool, hip little stationery and journals and chapbooks near the register. PLEASE. I BESEECH YOU: When shopping for books, shop independent. Shop Word.
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Lisa D.

Yelp
"A book is a garden, an orchard, a storehouse, a party, a company by the way, a counselor, a multitude of counselors. " -Charles Baudelaire WORD, a four year old independent bookstore, is a veritable treasure chest and local literary community gathering space. In the Lilliputian 1,000 square foot space, one can find a variety of new hardcovers, books by local authors, children's books, literary fiction, and handmade artwork, cards, and stationary. I didn't realize until I attended a reading here that WORD also has a large, lower level space with a stage, slide projector, and decent amount of seating for readings. The launch party I attended, which featured a reading and book signing by one my favorite living novelists, Kate Christensen, and a fascinating slide show presentation by Kevin Walsh based on his book, "Forgotten NYC," was excellent. The WORD staff was very friendly and accommodating and went all out by providing good quality wine from a local purveyor, Dandelion Wines, and ten pizzas from Paulie Gee's(!). I scored an early, signed copy of the new novel "The Astral" at the launch party and got another book signed by the author as well. The last time I was here I scored some other interesting finds by local authors. For the non-Luddites among the literati, note that WORD also sells e-books. Word.
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Andy K.

Yelp
Very cute bookstore in Greenpoint. All of your top literary needs are sold here from fiction, non-fiction, travel books and kid's books. They also sell items like puzzles, maps, stationary, postcards and note cards. If they do not have what you are looking for, just ask them to order it. Love this small and locally owned bookstore. Throw some cash their way and support a local business. They even plug Yelp on their site!
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Heath R.

Yelp
Also reviewed at http://www.yelp.com/biz/PSxZupwcbJza_afD6ZENfA , but this review happened first, so let's gather our thoughts here! I've wanted to visit Word since I first heard it opened earlier this year. And after a couple of aborted attempts given not quite knowing where it was and limited time, I finally made my way to the shop this afternoon. Am I glad I did. The shop is small, but the woman who runs it is extremely nice, and the selection is especially smart and well-focused. They don't have everything, but they have the best of what you might want. And given their twice-a-week special orders, you can get in-print books within a day or two. That's swell. I focused my attention on the new additions, the fiction selection, the graphic novels shelf, the children's section, and the New York books. The sectioning is helpful and high quality. They have a shelf of "local authors," but the books aren't overly new, much less centered on Brooklyn or Greenpoint, so I'm not sure how they define local. The children's section is awesome. Especially in terms of board books, if you're looking for the ones you _need_, they largely have them in stock. In chapter books, they have some gaps, but I'm sure that'll change over time. And the graphic novels section? Very smart. They dedicate an entire stand to graphic novels, and they're very well represented -- the best you could pick up on a whim. Nice to see. They even had the Drawn & Quarterly reissue of Ron Rege Jr.'s "Skibber Bee-Bye," which was nice to see. One last note: They have a section dedicated to McSweeney's-related books, which might give you a sense of the proprietor's literary leanings. While I was there, the counter woman -- perhaps the owner! -- asked me where I thought she should shelve George Saunders's "The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip" -- by Saunder's novels or in the McSweeney's section? I said, "Why not in more than one place?" She only had one copy. I figured that more potential buyers would find it by the McSweeney's books than in fiction or children's. Then she asked about Nick Hornby. I said, "By his other books." It all felt so arbitrary, but it kind of makes sense. McSweeney's readers will dig a McSweeney's-like kid's book, but someone who's into Hornby will go for Hornby. We'll see if the book sells. This is a good, small bookstore -- and a welcome addition to my neighborhood, even if it's on the side of Greenpoint I don't frequent. Kudos!
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Celia K.

Yelp
This is *the* place to get high on the smell of new books. You know what I'm talking about. Breathe deep when you step in. I was really impressed with their selection of fiction, graphic novels, history/biography, foodie books, and kids books. I generally try to avoid paying full price for books (because paying less means I can have more), but I'd make an exception for this place. Plus, the cards and stationery are pretty classy without being overly pretentious. I'm so glad that this is a pleasant stroll from my apartment, plus close to plenty of bars and/or a park where you can get started right away on your new book(s).
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Zuba C.

Yelp
Support your local small businesses! That being said, nice helpful staff great selection, and no nasty looks for too long perusals. I'm a food whore and former fatty and they never say a thing about the drool I leave all over their books. Did I mention I love it? It's a gem in a neighborhood that has a lot of new not so gem like businesses pushing in. Also? I don't feel like a hipster poser douche shopping in there. Again, ACES in my book ( HA! ) for that.
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Kara M.

Yelp
This is the kind of bookstore every neighborhood needs. I travel quite a ways to Word because unfortunately, my neighborhood is lacking! Word has a wonderful author events program, reading clubs, book of the month program. It's also just a nice place to be! The owners and staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about books. They can recommend something for any age. Christine helped me pick out some books for a toddler and they were RIGHT on the money. They've got lots of cards and other fun gifts as well so it's a perfect place to stop if you need a last minute present for someone. They'll wrap it for you too! It's the perfect store for procrastinators like me !
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Adam B.

Yelp
I actually joined Yelp just so I could give a positive review of Word but I forgot to and for that, I apologize America. Yes, they have an amazing book selection and great service. Regular top of the line with good prices. But it's really the extras that are so great. Amazing cards (you know how hard it is to find a decent one, much less one that isn't insulting). For someone who knows nothing about kids but has a niece, they've been great in helping me find gifts. And the events. Oh those events. PBR AND david Rees? You would have had me at either.
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Or V.

Yelp
Cheap, good service and cute cozy book store. Definitely coming back. P.S if there is a specific book you're looking for and you can't find in the store they can order it for you (my book was $10 cheaper than B&N)
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A E.

Yelp
Salvation has come to Greenpoint in the form of this newly opened bookstore on Franklin St. @ Milton. Good thing to know. It's small, but very nicely edited by a friendly owner. The fiction section is well stocked with fantastic books currently and formerly on my reading list. You will find an original card selection (average $4) and many boxes of stationary, journals, etc. Didn't wander too close to the childrens' section because that's not really my speed at the moment. Very excited by the Graphic Novel shelves. I look forward to checking out the book clubs and upcoming events. Great place to go when you don't know what to read next. Open Tu-Sa 11-7 and Su 12-6. Closed Mondays--how European. Oh and they do take credit cards--salvation for this girl who's bank hasn't gotten the memo about opening an ATM on Manhattan Ave. So happy to have stumbled upon this shop.
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Zach V.

Yelp
Man, we finally get an English-language bookstore in Greenpoint; thank God it rocks. Blondie's review sums this up perfectly: Word does, in fact, have every book you're planning on reading, and almost nothing else. I have no idea how this works, but it's the truth. And they have discounts. This is now my regular Greenpoint walk -- go to Word, buy a book, go to the deli and read it and eat a sandwich. Perfect.
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Sean S.

Yelp
Super cute bookstore that sits on Franklin. How apt that it's on the corner of Milton. A very old school St. Marks books type store - bookstore as literary sample, this place has a great vibe. For browsing, and if you don't know what you're looking for, you'll see some great new stuff, from fiction to graphic novels, and classics. I also of course love the fact that Lisa D and Vivian H have long since beat me to the punch on reviewing this spot!
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Erin P.

Yelp
Excellent store. I can always tell a good shop by how strongly I want to move in. I'm quiet. I eat mostly raw vegan food, so I don't need a stove...Word, can I move in? My only complaint? I wish they had more art books. But then I'd be broke. So I guess I don't. Lovely light. Lovely people working there. Great selection.
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Briana C.

Yelp
I love to shop local. I love the independent bookstore. I love WORD. I did about 90% of my Christmas shopping here this past holiday season - from my sister and her foodie boyfriend to my hippie, teacher mom to my wordy dad, I found something for each and every one of them. They also have a great and changing selection of letter-press cards and stationary and a really nice (small, like the rest of the store), well-edited children's section. A girlfriend of mine attends book club here and seems to really like it. I haven't gotten around to it - but love that it has the offering, and the books always seem really interesting.
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tashi s.

Yelp
I love Word's well-curated collection of books and stationery. The people who work there never make you feel like a jackass like so many other retail workers in 11222 and 11211 can. I kind of wish they carried a limited selection of international magazines like Donna Hay and French Marie Claire. But I guess there's not really room for that in such a small space. Great place to run to for a last minute birthday or baby shower gift.
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Strobo C.

Yelp
I don't know why a lot of people talk highly of this place. Probably due to the location, this store might have given the impression that it is a cultural representative of Brooklyn. My conclusion was that the whole misrepresentation and overrating were coming from the under-read population in Williamsberg/Greenpoint. I traveled to see how wonderful this store would be. The experience just underwhelmed me. This store rather reminded me of a small seller in a place as rural as upstate New York, where a site as this could be an accent just because they carry books, and maybe cider as well. Not in NYC, though. Please stop overrating, Greenpointers, I have no time for this. Also, the staff...ngh. The way they use their already cluttered place needs serious improvement or renovation and I don't know what is taking them so long.
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Parker W.

Yelp
WORD has a fairly limited selection. It is very cute. Too precious for a macho hillbilly like myself. I recommend the Community Bookstore in Cobble Hill. It is a place that you can get lost in or crushed by a stack of books.
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Blondie M.

Yelp
Barnes and Noble it is not. Barnes is a behemoth mash of confusion while WORD has the book you were really looking for all that time, simply displayed...next to the other book you heard about and were meaning to read. The store is so cute and charming you'll want to poke around for an hour. The owner is a cheerful, knowledgable sage who has directed me to about five books that are now on my list of favorites. There is also a section for kids littered with toys and puzzles. This place is a little gem! edit: Anyone in attendance for the Harry Potter release party knows that a sweaty basement, free booze and raffle prizes make a Nerd Night to remember. Special shout out to the Purebloods who pre-ordered hanging out in the children's section. Thanks for the fun, Word!
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Holly R.

Yelp
This store is amazing and one of the best indies around. I'd give it 100 stars if I could. For starters, their selection is perfect. They obviously listen to their customers and buy with an eye for the 'hood wants. It's constantly changing and feels totally fresh and interesting. I never walk out of the store with less than a full bag of books I can't wait to read, both new and old. Their staff is equally as awesome as their books. Every single time I go into this store, I have the best conversations with the people who work there. They know everything in the store and can give perfect recommendations for every reader. They are smart, interesting, funny people who totally know their market. And let's talk events...YAY Word for hosting some of the coolest events in BK. Seriously, I could spend all my time just hanging out going to their awesome and sometimes quirky events. Love it! In case you missed it, I love this store and you should too!! And to all the people who are bitching about their bathroom situation...seriously? That's your big complaint? Perhaps you missed the memo that no business (except those in the food industry) is required to have bathroom access for you. As a parent, that's YOUR job. Stop trashing a completely awesome business for such an unbelievably petty reason. Shame on all of you. But, YAY WORD!!
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Laura D.

Yelp
A small, smart bookstore that hosts some of the most creative author events I've attended. The staff works really hard at cultivating a welcoming community through literary happenings... and the basketball league. That's right, this is the bookstore behind Brooklyn's Nerd Basketball League, which has played at the courts across the street for the past two summers! Shout-out to Stephanie for running an amazing season of basketball. (From the girl with no natural hoop skills: it was a real pleasure to have the opportunity to play!) The entire staff is incredible. As others have mentioned, they've got a great kid's section and well-curated literary collection with really thoughtful staff pick index cards. Plus a "looking for love" wall of folks listing their literary preferences (and which books their ideal partner would like)--adorable! I can't say enough good things about this place--so much appreciation for what they're doing.
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Khris S.

Yelp
I love independent bookstores, and this is one of the best. It satisfies my inner book nerd quite nicely. I live in the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill area so I mostly head to Greenlight to fulfill my needs, but I love to venture over to Greenpoint every so often. Everyone is always nice and friendly here and they really know what they're talking about when it comes to book recommendations. And the space is small, but it works somehow. I always find what I'm looking for, and it's a comfortable, cozy space to browse.
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Diana K.

Yelp
This is not the bookstore you spend all afternoon in, browsing shelves and getting lost in pages. Nope, not here. It's pretty small, so there isn't a whole lot of room to plop down unbothered. That said, it is very well curated. Lots of interesting reads, perfectly organized. Cult classics, foreign adventure books, memoirs you had on your list and even more you never heard of. Lots of great art books too. They have a big kids section that I don't care about. Service is very nice. Stop in if you pass by, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here-- especially not if you're looking for something specific.
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Taryn C.

Yelp
I love local flair mom and pop shops. This is why I love Greenpoint. WORD likes to emphasis local artists, and even has a great section showcasing them. I was there to do a speaking engagement for my friend, who had published a book. I really enjoyed it here.
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Jennifer N.

Yelp
Small, smart, indie neighborhood bookstore (emphasis on neighborhood-- Word is *really* a Greenpoint bookstore.) Iif you want a highly curated fiction selection (e.g. Alice Munro, Haruki Murakami, Jonathan Lethem), this is the place for you! The shelves are filled with great staff recommendations - something I always love! - and the booksellers are eager to offer their two cents (overheard: "I want a book of funny essays." Bookseller then rattles off a list of about thirty books of funny essays. Impressive). What this isn't: an academic bookstore (there's a small "nonfiction section"); a place where you can hang out for hours (there's one chair for adults - and it's really a stool - and it's a small store, so you're not going to sit in an arm chair here for hours).
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Nathan S.

Yelp
This is the quintessential independent bookstore. This isn't a store for a random assortment of yellowed, dated books you buy to make yourself seem more interesting. This isn't a store you go for Amazon-like slashed prices for your new books that you will pile onto a shelf and never read. Truthfully, it doesn't appear to be a store for NYT Best Sellers, either. This is a smart bookstore for the people. You will find something you WANT to read in here. I love this place and anytime I am in Greenpoint I will more than gladly pick up a read to support this business.
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Dee K.

Yelp
I can't say enough good things about WORD. There is one particular gal who works there who I always seem to get, and I ask her about YA novels. She is so nice and friendly and gives me great advice. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this bookstore and its events. It's tiny, but space is expensive, even in Greenpoint. I hope someday they get to expand. Definitely subscribe to their emails, read their blog, and join their book-credit-frequent-reader program. Supporting an indie bookseller has never been so easy and painless if you're nearby. But still, it's worth a trip, you can do a whole Franklin Street tour of shops. Oh and if you're feeling literarily amorous, you can post what you're looking for in a nerdy mate on their wall. Are you looking for an Fitzgerald or a Hemingway, a Nin or a Kingsolver? :) http://wordbrooklyn.tumblr.com/
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Whitney J.

Yelp
I love me some independent bookstore and WORD is a particularly great one. All the employees are knowledgeable about what they have in stock and what they can order and seem to enjoy their jobs. Yeah, you'll pay a little more than at a Barnes and Noble, but hey, independent bookstore. Great neighborhood place Tons of great readings each month and if you attend one you're entered into a mid-year raffle for books! Neat, right?
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Justin L.

Yelp
Nice Children's Section and Host to lots of Super fun literary-ish events
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Carlos C.

Yelp
I just moved to Greenpoint a couple weeks ago and stumbled upon this lovely bookstore while I was taking a walk around the neighborhood in an attempt to acclimate myself to my new surroundings. I was pleasantly surprised to find this family oriented bookstore. What really blew me away were the staff recommendations. Instead of having an entire section with staff picks, the employees have placed cards on the lip of the shelves containing the name of the book being recommended, the employee's name and a brief summery of why they picked the book. This is a genius idea! I am always so scared when buying a new book because i never know what to expect. These cards are a life saver. The staff were very friendly and familiar with their inventory. I will definitely be going back here.
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Pinky C.

Yelp
What a cute bookstore. Once I went in, it was like I stepped into a magical world. Been getting more into books lately, so I will definitely come back (even though it's quite a trek for me). Thanks for hosting the book signing for Nathan Pyle for NYC Tips and Etiquette! I loved the space downstairs, super homey for events like that!
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Molly C.

Yelp
WORD to your mother. (see what i did there?) great locally owned book shop. support your local bookseller.
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Roger M.

Yelp
Came here in search of a nice local Brooklyn bookstore -- and that's exactly what I found! Nice staff, good selections, clean store. Looks like they might do events down in the basement from time to time. I got interviewed for a local Brooklyn publication while here- crazy random happenstance. If you're even remotely close to this store, please check it out. Support local!!
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Diane M.

Yelp
Everyone who works here is really really smart. I can go up to the counter and say things like "I'm going to Spain next week and want some good contemporary Spanish fiction, in english, to read on the plane." and they can give me a recommendation. I grew up near two really good bookstores and it's great to have one as an adult.
Wood grain pattern