Kew & Willow Books — Local services in New York

An independent book shop owned and operated by women? Yes, please!

Not only that, but this is genuinely a great book shop. The space is very small, but it's inviting, charming, and quirky, full of character. The big, full-front plate glass of the shop lends a wonderful ambiance and feeling of space no matter what time if day or what kind of weather.

There is no sales pressure of any kind. There is always someone available and accessible to confer with if one has questions, and these women are incredibly well versed in books and literature and how to stock and run a great book shop. They have a great deal of experience and education in exactly those fields.

When you walk in, you get a cheery greeting from whoever is at the wheel and you can then browse to your heart's content. At first you're a little surprised by the seeming absence of books in the place. This is a rather cleverly arranged illusion. There are shallow shelves along the two walls and several boxy, freestanding bookcase style display units in the center that all hold a lot more books than you think they would just looking at them. I've never left the place without making a purchase, and that's saying something because I have a lot of books.

The selection of in-shop books is robust and really well thought out. There's always something intriguing and there's a little of everything. I usually find myself forced to choose between several books in fantasy, history, classical literature, a biography, and something I've never heard of but which sounds so interesting I'll die if I don't read it that very day. In a shop as small as this one, that level of curation isn't merely skill, it's a superpower.

Crucially, they are willing and able to order any book you desire for you without a murmur. And because they have so much experience at this, they can find just about anything. To be able to walk into a modern-day old-fashioned book shop and order something you didn't find on the shelves and have it done quickly and competently by seasoned pros is glorious.

There is another level in the back of the store, about 4-5 steps up from the front section, and this is an open space with bookshelves on the walls. The space is for younger readers and there's a clearly custom-made chair they have back there that I love so hard I would try to buy it from them if I had a million bucks. It's charmingly and eye-catchingly decorated. I wish there was a little reading nook back there, but I suppose then they just might as well give up and become a cafe, because I'm not the only one they'd never be able to get out of the place again.

They regularly have events for both adults and kids and often have authors reading or talking/signing. They're usually local authors, which is pretty great.

The only down side, apart from the small size of the space, is that because those center display blocks are not tall, you have to bend down to varying degrees to see the majority of the books in the store. This is awkward because you have to take up a lot more room having to double over to examine the titles in an already-cramped area, and after a couple minutes of leaning over and trying to read titles right down to the floor, it becomes uncomfortable.

For people with mobility issues, it's downright painful, as I found to my regret. It doesn't stop me from going, but I wish there was a graceful solution. Recovering from a chronic illness, I'm physically incapable of having to assume yoga positions for any length of time in order to check out the shelves, but I'm always willing to give it a go, because this is an awesome book shop run by awesome women and everyone should do what they can to support independent book shops as well as women/PoC-owned small business. Down with the oligarchy!

One last thing: I wish so much that they sold stationery type merchandise - notebooks, journals, writing implements, letter paper, etc. That would be brilliant, but maybe I'm the only one who still loves writing by hand.

I love...

Delighted to dedicate the composition of my first review towards this captivating, compelling, and independently woman owned bookstore: endless laude is present.

First, the lovely individuals, deemed as reputable managers, Holly and Vina, have truly provided me excellent customer service.

As an avid reader, I've inquired about book recommendations from Holly on several occasions, where, resultingly, she proceeds to ethusutically getting up from her seat under the intent of suggesting a read that is riveting, every single time. Holly exhibits sheer passion for literature, impressing me seamlessly with her personal expertise. On a present-day base, Holly has not disappointed me with her vast selection of preferences. With that being said, I've extensively been fortunate to receive open invitations about the profoundly dedicated events that are imminent to take place at this lovely setting, with Holly exuding a welcoming vibe.

Vina's empthaty and profound dedication to ensuring im well acclimated is immensely appreciated. To note a particular instance, in the midst of a book launch: I garnered the privilege to receive from a call from Vina, imparting that signed copies are available, and that there will no issue or limitation in reserving it, until picked up. Exactly like Holly, I've exchanged pleasantries with Vina, as well, simply indulging into intriguing book conversations.

The ambiance is clean, wholesome, and extremely appealing. Organized in specific genres, executing the cozy atmospherhic feeling with ease.

Service like this is rare, where I am inclined to say that, as a man, it is a treat to see a woman business of this stature, independenly, may I add again, prosper. Discovering a marvelous bookstore known as Kew And Willow Books, in the midst of this year, it is safe to solidy a personal favorite of mine.

If you love books, you must immerse yourself here. No regrets.

Thank you,...

I came back here after a 7 month hiatus (thanks covid) and I missed it so much! The book selection is vast and I always leave with what I came for + something I’d never heard of. The workers have always been so open and inviting and it makes for a pleasant visit. Honestly it’s just nice to know a small bookshop in the area exists. The prices are retail, but you get rewards for spending a certain amount, so there’s a loyalty program.

P.S. they’ve taken covid precautions, not too many people allowed in at once. Wear your masks and stickers are designated to space out everyone.

Edit: it’s been years and this is my go to store. Whatever they may not have in stock in the store they order for me. I also love the website, to ordering things for delivery or pickup. I love what they do for the community, we deserve cute, aesthetic, local independent bookstores! And sadly you don’t really find many around this...