Porter Square Books: Boston Edition — Attraction in Boston

Today this bookstore made me very sad. When I arrived, I beelined to the back of the store to peruse their small but mighty art section. In its place, was a different type of book with a new label, Gift Books. Gift Books was full of those kind of coffee table books which you spend five minutes looking at then never again. Where were the books on drawing, on painting, on art theory & art history? I wandered around the store, looking at all the shelves, in increasing desperation to find anything labeled art. When I came up with nothing, I hopefully asked a store associate where the art section was. She led me back to the Gift Book section, noting that they had books on photography (ok, but...) and then pointed to a Crafts section which she said also had books on photography (ok, but?) To be fair, it did have a few nice books on knitting and other crafts, but...it's not the same.

And that was it! I've never experienced a book store without an art section. This store is sending a clear message that human pursuits like art and music aren't worthy any more. I mean, we have AI to make art, what else do...

LOVED this independent book store!! Definitely worth a visit. After seeing the collection of children’s books donated by Porter Square Books at the ICA Begin Again exhibit, we were encouraged by an ICA staff member to check this place out. So glad we did! It is just steps from the ICA and very well stocked! Beautiful gifts and such too! Bought a t-shirt and was delighted to meet the woman who designed it!! An...

Such a cosy atmosphere. The staff were sweet and polite, and they made me feel genuinely welcome. The store has a great selection of books, and the cafe that's connected to it is the perfect spot to enjoy a beverage while reading a bit - with huge windows facing the harbour. Had I not had to leave due to work, I'd keep ordering beverages until I got tired of reading.

Definitely recommend...