Top 5 Online Feminist Bookstores

A feminist bookstore is a store that highlights books that are by women and that are for women. Books written by men can be included. However, they must enhance and not take away from the feminist bookstore experience. A feminist bookstore makes sure that books by and for women are kept in the public view. You may not live near a feminist bookstore, or a feminist bookstore in your area may have closed due to lack of funds. However, you can still support an independent, feminist bookstore by visiting a store’s website. Some feminist bookstores sell their books and products online as well as in their brick and mortar store. Here are five top feminist bookstores that allow you to purchase online.

1. Women and Children First

5233 North Clark
Chicago IL 60640

This is one of the largest feminist bookstores in the country. Founded in 1979, Women and Children First is located in Chicago, Illinois in a neighborhood called Andersonville. However, you don’t have to live in Chicago to benefit from the large selection over at Women and Children First. They have an active site where you can purchase books and also receive information about their events if you happen to live in Chicago, or if you’re coming to Chicago for a visit.

2. Book Woman

5501 N. Lamar Blvd. #A-105
Austin, TX 78751

The bookstore located in Austin Texas packs quite a punch. They have moved to a new location, and you will find feminist books on many different topics including politics, erotica, holistic health, parenting, autobiographies and more. If you’re in the Austin, Texas area you should not miss Book Woman. You’ll find other stuff in their brick and mortar store like cool buttons and t-shirts. If you’re not in the Austin area, be sure to visit their online site and order some books!

3. Toronto Women’s Bookstore

73 Harbord Street,
Toronto ON
M5S 1G4

An important staple of Toronto and the only feminist bookstore in Toronto, Toronto Women’s Bookstore has been an important provider of books by and for women for over 30 years. With a friendly and intelligent staff, the bookstore thrives on a large selection of material, as well as being a huge support for the Toronto feminist community with workshops, classes and other programming. It draws nationally and internationally known women to speak and conduct readings. If you’re in Toronto, visit the store. If not, order online.

4. In Other Words

8 B NE Killingsworth St
Portland, OR 97211

In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources is a non-profit, volunteer driven feminist bookstore that has been in existence for 15 years. They offer a diverse collection of feminist, lesbian, non-sexist children’s books and more. In addition to books it offers other products as well as offers community events, workshops, readings, classes and more. Visit the bookstore if you are in Oregon. Order from the store online if you’re not.

5. A Room of One’s Own Feminist Bookstore and Coffee House

307 W. Johnson St.
Madison, WI 53703

A Room of One’s Own Feminist Bookstore has been around since 1975 and moved into a larger space in 1997. This is a bookstore that specializes in women’s literature of various types. As with all good feminist bookstores, it also offers things like music, posters, t-shirts and more. There’s lots of lesbian pride and it’s a good resource for women and the LGBT community. It is also a place for meetings and events. Visit the store when you’re in Madison and order online when you’re not.