10/31/06

Independently above the rest!

by rented

Inkwood is the only independent bookstore in town selling new books with all the latest titles, especially for fiction and children's books. The staff is friendly, attentive and knowledgable about books. They're also willing to order books for you if they don't have them in stock. There's also a nice selection of unique cards you won't find at the drugstore.

• Pros: Great selection of books and cards. Cozy atmosphere
• Cons: No magazines

Tampa's lone indie bookstore survives thanks to a fabulous selection and stellar service.

by Contributor

Standing Room Only
Cramped but cozy, Inkwood's location in an old Tampa residence gives it a homey atmosphere. The small rooms are crammed to bursting with bookshelves but don't feel overcrowded. The only significant drawback to Inkwood is the lack of sitting places: You may want to head over to the nearby Starbucks or Davis Island's Java & Cream to sit and read your new purchase.

Title Tracks
Look through the bargain book bin outside, but the real treasures lie within. Parents will be delighted to find a full room of reads for the rug rats. Inkwood boasts volumes on almost every topic imaginable, but the fiction section is especially outstanding.

It's All About the Service
No bookstores in town, and certainly no mega-chain, can compare to the attention and care you'll get at Inkwood. The staff members love to talk about books (sometimes too much--there's the danger of whiling away hours in conversation if you ask one simple question).