Downtown Harrisonburg has no shortage of places to spend an afternoon - but for book lovers, Parentheses Books is one of those spots that makes the Friendly City feel even more special.
Tucked within the Liberty Street Mercantile on the north end of downtown Harrisonburg, this independent bookstore has quickly become a favorite gathering place for readers, writers, and anyone who enjoys a slower pace and a thoughtfully curated shelf.
A Thoughtful Selection
Parentheses Books focuses on a carefully chosen collection of new books across a variety of genres, including literary fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and children’s books. Rather than overwhelming visitors with endless rows of titles, the shop highlights books the staff truly love.
Handwritten staff recommendation cards and beautifully arranged displays make browsing easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for your next great novel or a meaningful gift, it’s the kind of place where you’re likely to leave with something unexpected.
A Space to Linger
Step inside and you’ll quickly see why people love spending time here. The space is warm and welcoming, with seating areas and shelves that invite you to slow down and flip through a few pages.
It’s the kind of bookstore where a quick visit often turns into an hour of browsing.
Bringing Readers Together
Parentheses Books is more than a bookstore, it’s a gathering place for Harrisonburg’s literary community. The shop regularly hosts author readings, book launches, and literary events, bringing writers and readers together in an intimate downtown setting. Their popular 2nd Saturday Stories event is specifically for children and includes a time for crafts.
These events help create the kind of community connection that makes Harrisonburg such a vibrant place to live.
The Experience
When asked how she hopes people feel when they walk into Parentheses Books, owner Amanda Friss replied: "I hope that people walk in and feel an immediate release of tension. A feeling that they've arrived at a comfortable, warm, welcoming space that allows them to breathe deeply and focus, for a few moments at least, on something other than their phones or to-do lists. I hope that people come in and feel a sense of community, of connection, and of the magic of books."
Make a Day of It
A stop at Parentheses Books pairs perfectly with the rest of downtown. Grab a coffee at Chestnut Ridge Coffee Roasters, stroll through the collection of other shops in the Liberty Street Mercantile, or explore the many locally owned restaurants and shops throughout downtown Harrisonburg.
Places like Parentheses are part of what makes Harrisonburg feel like home, local businesses built around creativity, conversation, and community.
Hours & Where to Follow Them
76 W. Gay Street, Harrisonburg VA 22802 (Across from Magpie Diner)
Tues-Friday 10-6pm
Sat 9-6pm
Sun 9-4pm
Closed Monday
Follow them on Instagram or check out their website for more information and a schedule of their events.
All photos courtesy of Parentheses Books
