For the Bookworms


The hidden gem for all my bookworms, filled with an array of different genres of literature located in the Inland Empire; Riverside’s very own, Dowtowne Bookstore.


By Wynter Muro


There are few things that are better than diving into a new book, for bookworms that is. Oftentimes, individuals will resort to chain bookstores such as Barnes and Noble as a means of obtaining their latest read. And as a result, some of the nicest bookstores remain unvisited and hidden in plain sight.

In Downtown Riverside, just a good few minutes away from Chaffey College’s Campus, resides “Downtowne Bookstore.” This place is tucked away into the neatest little corner. It is adorned with fairy lights and vines that lead the way into the shop.

Within the bookstore, shoppers can find multiple aisles with a variety of genres, all ranging from fictional horror novels, to authors local to the area. Each shelf is filled with hundreds of books per section.

Scattered throughout the place, you can find the bookstores mascot, an owl. The decorations inside truly add to the environment which provides a warm welcome to those who enter.

Downtowne Bookstore does not only sell books. The shop has many different miscellaneous items that buyers can purchase. There are bookmarks, beautifully made notebooks and sleeves for books. For the jewelry lovers, there are a multitude of pieces ranging from necklaces to earrings that are perfectly fit for those who like to display their adoration for novels. And of course, for my fellow tote-bag bearers, there are selections of varying colors and graphics available to purchase.

Right outside of the shop, there is a reading alley for all customers to sit, relax, and enjoy a read. Its layout features white chairs with tables, fairy lights for ambiance and plants to hone in on the comfortable feel.

Downtowne Bookstore, in my opinion, is a great one stop shop for bookworms. There are cards to gift, ornaments to hang and even scarves to wear as a part of the selection of items to purchase.

Instead of funding large chains, take the time to find some of the places nearby that just might be right under your nose, like the Downtowne Bookstore. You never know what you might find!