2nd & Charles
5756 Highway 153, Suite 112
Hixson
(423) 877-8911
What they sell: If it’s physical media — books, movies, vinyl records, video games, etc. — they’ve probably got it and more.
Coolest thing on offer: For musicians, there’s plenty of gear to find, including a mandolin, a dulcimer, a Batman-themed electric guitar and an analog mixer.
Why you want to shop here: Because in this digital age, you still crave something tangible to hold.
Staff photo by Sam Still / A Little BookishA Little Bookish
6857 Mountain View Road, Suite 101
Ooltewah
(423) 305-8405
What they sell: Books of all genres for all ages, book-inspired merchandise from local makers and others, as well as puzzles, toys, games and more.
Coolest thing on offer: Candle brand “From the Page” pairs books and genres with the perfect scent.
Why you want to shop here: Whether you’re shopping at the brick-and-mortar store or the traveling book-mobile, you’re sure to find that perfect book.
Staff photo by Sam Still / The Book & CoverThe Book & Cover
1310 Hanover St.
North Chattanooga
(423) 654-3296
What they sell: Along with books, books and more books, there’s also literary merchandise and café-style snacks and beverages.
Coolest item on offer: A special hardcover edition of “The Lord of the Rings,” containing illustrations by the author, J.R.R. Tolkien.
Why you want to shop here: Because you want to pick up a book, grab a cup of coffee and find a spot to sit back and chill.
Staff photo by Kathy Bradshaw / McKay’sMcKay’s
7734 Lee Highway
Tyner
(423) 800-8119
What they sell: Just about everything media-related, and then some.
Coolest item on offer: Items come and go quickly at this heavily visited store, but if you time your visit right, you could snag a working typewriter or film camera.
Why you want to shop here: Because your shopping habits are as much about the quest for an item as they are about actually finding the item.
Staff photo by Sam Still / Winder BinderWinder Binder
40 Frazier Ave.
North Shore
(423) 413-8999
What they sell: Books, vinyl records, locally made artwork, Chattanooga Football Club merchandise and small gifts.
Coolest item on offer: Watercoloring books made by local artist Konstantin Chinkov.
Why you want to shop here: Because you love a local business that a) has an immaculate and eclectic vibe and b) supports local authors and artists.