Student Choice Awards 2014

Best Bookstore – Dusty Bookshelf

Used bookstore, hidden jewel

By Cortlynn Stark, The BudgetJanuary 6, 2015Leave a Comment

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Opened in Lawrence in 1996, The Dusty Bookshelf allows bookworms to read to their hearts’ content, nestled in comfy nooks between shelves.

Location: 708 Massachusetts St.
Hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday- Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday- Saturday, 12– 6 p.m. Sunday
Total votes: 429
Best known for: Books and Alice the cat (RIP 2014)
Year established in Lawrence: 1996

If you’re looking for a great book, most students agree that there’s only one place to go: the Dusty Bookshelf where books go for a new home and cats go to lounge around.

The first Dusty Bookshelf shop opened in Manhattan in 1985 and moved to Lawrence in 1996. The Dusty Bookshelf has since created a legacy of a wide selection of used books, a calm atmosphere and adopted cats.

“We have a variety of books at a very reasonable price because they’re all pre-read,” Dusty Bookshelf sales associate Holly Hurley said. “I love to see anybody read, especially the high school crowd.”

Lawrence High senior Miranda Pratt is among those who favor this bookstore over all others, because they supply selections that cater to her interests.

“I liked the cat a lot,” Pratt said. “I also like their art and film section. There was a Degah drawing book I saw that I really want.”

The bookstore in addition to buying and selling books also makes trades, exemplifying the calm feels and good vibes of the space.

“I like that it’s cozy,” Free State junior Jessica Vanahill said. “I like the atmosphere, it’s really nice. I like finding little books you wouldn’t usually find.”