10 Bridge Street, Shelburne Falls, MA
Boswell’s Books resides in the downtown heart of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, a village that itself is a wonderful destination for those looking for tranquil New England villages. Besides the Bridge of Flowers and the falls themselves, there are shops, restaurants, and of course, great bookshops like this one to wander through. Boswell’s has been an active part of the community since 1991, and it was a delight to visit.
Taking the steps up into the main floor, I got the impression that the space used to be a something like a community store in a New England vacation town—it has that vibe, a large room that goes back and back and back, with purple walls and tiled floors and ample shelf space everywhere you look for all kinds of things—books, merch, maps, gifts, etc. As you begin to wander, you may spot Boswell the cat, who also features prominently on the shop’s truly fantastic website.
The shop has a good balance between new and used/vintage books, with a fair amount from smaller indie and university presses too. There’s plenty on local topics, regional history, field guides, religious and indigenous folklore, current events and recent social movements but also classic literature and popular trade titles. There’s a robust mystery section, a nice selection of children’s books again ranging from newer releases to vintage selections, YA for older readers, and much more. The wooden chairs and lamps scattered throughout create a cozy, welcoming environment.
Overall, a great shop with abundant space, plenty of books, and in a wonderful location. A bookshop like this can be both the heartbeat of a town and a tourist draw, and I’m sure Boswell is both for Shelbourne Falls.
Atmosphere — With purple walls and tiled floors, the space has the vibe of a small town five-and-dime converted into a bookstore, with abundant shelves, wooden chairs throughout, and a bookstore cat.
Quality — There are older editions here, ranging from the well-read to high quality vintage. But there are plenty of newer editions (or brand new) as well.
Quantity — A lot of space in this shop, with a room that goes back quite a ways.
Diversity — This shop hits most of the usual categories, with plenty of fiction, YA/children’s, local interest, vintage titles, etc.
Affordability — The books were all very fairly priced with an obvious increase for rarities.
Amenities — There are some chairs scattered throughout, and some cafes nearby. Otherwise, you’re there to browse.
Location — Right in downtown Shelburne Falls near the bridge on (you guessed it) Bridge Street.
Customer Service — The staff I saw on hand were all friendly and chatting with guests.
Overall — This shop has plenty to entertain those passing through and locals alike, with a great range of new and old titles. A very relaxed, welcoming shop in a cute corner of Massachusetts. Well worth the visit!
