The 5 best book shops for artists in New York

Independently owned and one of New York’s no-nonsense art book stores, Mast Books has a wonderful selection of out-of-print and secondhand books, periodicals, and rare editions. You’ll find a great selection on fine art, photography, design, fashion and cinema, along with some literary fiction and poetry. They buy and sell, carry artists’ catalogues, and new editions too.

You could get lost in this sanctum of art books, intriguing to collectors and beginning art lovers alike. Ursus is an institution with an unmatched collection of art books from five centuries, including the most rare illustrated books, catalogues and prints. Check the website to see the breadth and depth of their inventory.

This charming Noho store – NYC’s only independent bookstore devoted entirely to photography – is owned and operated by David Strettell, the former cultural director of Magnum Photos. Dashwood Books specializes in quality books on contemporary photography from the 1960s to the present, produced by outstanding publishers from Japan, Europe and the US. They also carry rare vintage books and numerous out-of-print and quality used titles.

For a bookshop with a sophisticated atmosphere and a well-curated selection of coffee table books, find yourself on a quaint street in the historic neighborhood of Greenwich Village. Bookmarc shelves are stocked with exciting titles in fashion, photography, film, music and more. They consistently hold book signings by your favorite celebrities and attract visitors from all over the world. Bonus: they happen to be located across the street from the famous Magnolia’s Bakery.

Founded by Sol LeWitt and several other artists, this nonprofit bookstore specializes in serious and political artists’ books, zines, posters, and prints, including an extensive selection of out-ofprint material. Their goal is to preserve and provide insight into publications made and distributed by artists. Ongoing events include zine releases, exhibitions, and book announcements.