The Strand Bookstore is famous for its status as a historic, independent bookstore in New York City, renowned for its massive catalog of more than 2.5 million new, used, and rare literary works, reflected in its slogan “18 miles of books”[3][4]. It was founded in 1927 by Benjamin Bass on Fourth Avenue’s “Book Row,” once home to 48 other bookstores, establishing itself as a beloved institution for bibliophiles and casual readers alike[1][2][3].
Its fame comes from several distinctive features:
- Historical Legacy: The Strand is the last surviving shop from Book Row, making it a living piece of New York’s literary history[1][5].
- Rare and Precious Books: The bookstore houses treasures such as a German commentary on the Psalms from 1480 and a signed copy of Ulysses valued at $45,000. It also holds the distinction of selling Shakespeare’s first folio for $100,000[2].
- Cultural Impact: The Strand appears frequently in popular culture—including films, TV shows, and music—and has been cited by notable figures like David Bowie as a favorite NYC spot[4].
- Atmosphere and Experience: The store’s sprawling layout, with three floors of shelves and reading nooks, creates a “book lover’s paradise,” beloved for both its scale and its serendipitous browsing experience[4][6].
- Community and Staff: Staffed by passionate book lovers—often English majors—the Strand has built a reputation for knowledgeable service, enhancing its role as a gathering place for readers[6].
Despite facing various controversies and labor disputes, the Strand remains iconic for its enduring legacy, overwhelming community support, and its unparalleled selection of books that attract international visitors and locals year after year[7].
References
- [1] A Brief History Of The Strand, As The Legendary Bookstore Turns 90
- [2] The Top 21 Secrets of the Strand Bookstore in NYC
- [3] Strand Bookstore – Wikipedia
- [4] Enduring the Test of Time: Strand Book Store Stages Comeback
- [5] The Strand Bookstore – New York City – PopSpots
- [6] Getting to Know The Strand
- [7] No, You Don’t Need To #SaveTheStrand | Arts | The Harvard Crimson
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