HARVARD BOOK STORE
1256 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-661-1515
I visited an internet start-up at MIT a day after visiting this indie, and it was odd, but they had the same kind of enthusiastic energy. This book store sparkles. Maybe it’s the fact that the store stands across the street from Harvard Yard and the Widener Library. Whatever the reason, Harvard Book Store is full of energy and is a definite must-see for anyone who loves books and is visiting Boston.
What’s the secret to 78 years of success? It seems to be constant innovation. 
The store has never rested on its history, but has changed to reflect the cultural life and people of the surrounding community. Of course, selections and events are crafted to reflect their audience and that has resulted in a stunning section of philosophy and cultural studies.
The book store’s latest innovation is a green delivery program. Harvard Book Store customers anywhere in the greater Cambridge area can order books and have them delivered by bike messengers less than the cost of UPS or shipping from online retailers. It’s the book store’s way of supporting the environment and keeping local business truly local.
[...] website where he’s traveling to 100 independent bookstores around the country. We were his fifth visit. He’s at number thirty five [...]
Bravo for green delivery in Cambridge! I know this book store and love it. What a great idea to shine a spotlight on independent bookstores while on a book tour! Thank you for creating this blog.