Reading fosters your child’s language skills and builds their imagination as they read through a book’s pages. Bookstores give them an inviting and colorful atmosphere where they can find something new. If your family is looking for a new place to explore, check out these six local bookstores around Westerville, Ohio. From children’s books to comics to memorable gifts and games, these bookstores provide something the whole family can enjoy.

Cover to Cover Children’s Books

A person reading a children's book to a young child.

Cover to Cover Children’s Books is a bookstore that transports you to a world of wonder with its wall-to-wall bookshelves and art-covered walls. Cultivating a love of reading in children since 1980, Cover to Cover offers young readers classic and new literature, from picture to chapter books. This bookstore also features young adult novels and is an excellent source for local educators to find age-appropriate books for their students. Your kids will love picking out a new book to read at home or meeting their favorite authors during a book launch or store visit event.

  • Location: 2116 Arlington Ave., Columbus, Ohio.
  • Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Birdie Books

For a unique bookstore experience, visit the independently owned Birdie Books in historic Westerville, Ohio. This place has something for everyone, from adult books in various genres such as cooking and music to children’s books about fantasy and fairytales. Birdie Books also has an art gallery that showcases art from local artists in a space that inspires all.

Don’t miss Storytime with Birdie, hosted every first and third Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. This free local bookstore event combines reading with arts and crafts in a social environment where kids can interact with their peers. Visit Birdie Books for a great way to spend time with your kids and build a love of reading together.

  • Location: 74C N. State St., Westerville, Ohio.
  • Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

Half Price Books

Half Price Books prides itself in reaching 50 years of providing people with good reads. What once was a used bookshop in a laundromat in Dallas, Texas, turned into a lovely chain of bookstores across the United States. Visit the Half Price Books branch in Westerville to marvel at its impressive collection of books, music, collectibles, and more.

Stop by the store’s Half Pint Books section to browse an assortment of children’s books, including board books and pop-up books. The bookstore also has movies and puzzles section with family-friendly options to help you plan a family fun night back home. If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for your child’s next birthday, check out the store’s gift section or purchase a gift card.

  • Location: 561 S. State St., Westerville, Ohio.
  • Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Krazzy Comics

If you’re a comic book fan, you’ll love Krazzy Comics. You’ll find an awesome selection of Marvel and DC comics featuring your favorite superheroes. But there’s more to this bookstore than just comics; it also features cool collectibles and action figures that make perfect gifts for all ages. There are even a couple of classic arcade games offering Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, and more. 

Let your kids explore Krazzy Comics’ kids’ corner, where they can read and color while you browse the bookshelves. You can sign up for the bookstore’s pull list membership and get 10% off your purchases. After a full day hanging out at the local comic book shop, grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Westerville before you head home. As you enjoy your meal, you can discuss your favorite parts of visiting Krazzy Comics and plan your return visit soon.

  • Location: 1010 N. Hamilton Road, Gahanna, Ohio.
  • Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Prologue Bookshop

Visit the Prologue Bookshop in Columbus, Ohio, for a sense of community and a deep appreciation for reading. This independent bookstore takes pride in giving back to the community and boosting the local economy. Check out the kids’ section, featuring bestsellers, picture books, and fun toys. There’s a wide selection of adult books, such as crafts and hobbies, science fiction, history, fiction, and mystery. The Prologue Bookshop has a section of staff picks, guaranteeing a fine selection of books that are hard to put down.

This bookstore’s events include meeting inspiring authors of memoirs and novels and learning more about why they love writing. If you’re interested in being a part of Prologue Bookshop’s community, sign up for one of their four book clubs and meet like-minded people who love books, too.

  • Location: 841 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio.
  • Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Serenity Book Shop

The brand-new Serenity Book Shop is a special place where you can shop for books, study for school, or complete remote work in a relaxing environment. If you’re looking for books about healing, spirituality, or health, you’ll feel satisfied with this bookstore’s selection. Browse the shop’s gift section for candles, herbal teas, or spiritual tools to complete your self-care journey with your new book. Serenity Book Shop also features illustrated bestsellers in the children’s section, making it a great spot to bring your kids.

  • Location: 1806 W. Fifth Ave., Columbus, Ohio.
  • Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. Closed on Tuesday.

Start Your Bookstore Adventure Today

When planning your next family outing, include one of these local bookstores as a capstone to your day. Our team at Crème de la Crème of Westerville adores these spots and all they have to offer. You and your child can find a new book to bring home or a new board game to play with their friends. Make the most of your time together and join a bookstore event, such as story time or author meet-up. Which local bookstore are you most excited to visit? 

Person Reading A Book by Lina Kivaka is licensed with Pexels License