Bibliophiles swoon upon entering the famous Strand Bookstore, with its eight crammed miles of books lining shelves and stacked on the floor. The exhaustive selection can make for an exhausting experience, but patient browsing is well-rewarded. Strand boasts some of the best book deals in the city, offering up to 50% off most new and used books. They also have one of the largest rare book collections in the US. If you don’t feel like braving the crowds, call ahead; the knowledgeable staff take requests by phone and will hold your book for pick-up. The independent, family owned Strand, which first opened in 1927 and moved to its current spot in 1956, offers a refreshing departure from the chain behemoths that are overtaking the city. Buy a book here and you’re doing your part to support indie bookstores.