This independent bookstore is one of the best in the city. Its inventory boasts a fabulous range of books on Seattle and the Northwest, and if you're lucky you may come across limited editions or signed books. The bookstore also frequently hosts poetry readings, book signings and literary events for contemporary authors.

Located in the Capitol Hill area, Wall of Sound is filled with a great selection of music from all over the world. As you browse the shelves, you'll see music by artists from Asia, Africa, North America, South America and Europe. Both new and used recordings are plentiful. If you have questions, just ask the music-savvy staff, which will happily guide you through the wide world of music.

Dusty Strings is a great place to shop from some fine musical instruments. The shop specializes in string instruments like lever harps, ukuleles, vintage acoustic guitars, electric guitars, mandolins and banjos. Their collection is one of the best in all of Seattle and you are sure to find your dream guitar at this store. They have various brands like Taylor, Deering, Weber, OME, National, Goodall, Fano, Collings, Tone King and Martin. Along with selling new and used instruments, the place also conducts music classes and organizes events in various parts of the city.

Located in the bookstore-rich University District, this old shop buys and sells general, scholarly and academic used books. Look for complete sets by single authors, encyclopedia sets and other keepsake volumes. Magus Books buys and trades around 1000 used books each week, so it's always a new adventure to see what you can find. The staff will also do a personal search for your desired book if you email them with your request. The shop has specific book buying hours and private libraries and collections by appointment.

Known as the largest student bookstore in the United States, this bookstore fills two large floors right off of the University of Washington campus. It contains virtually any book a student or bibliophile might require. In addition to textbooks, the store offers a wide array of classic literature, magazines and study aides, plus day planners, backpacks, school supplies, art supplies, CDs, gifts, toiletries and electronics. There's also a coffee bar near the busy main entrance.

For more than 22 years (and through three owners), this bookstore has been delighting parents and children alike with its wonderful collection of hand-picked books. For children there are non-fiction, biography and poetry books. For adults there are books on parenting and about children, plus general-interest books. But for children and adults, the emphasis here is on literature. The shop regularly invites school groups to meet authors for readings and workshops.

This shop boasts an inventory of more than 150,000 new and used volumes, including rare books and collectibles. The international newsstand carries newspapers and periodicals from around the world. Third Place Books also features children's story time, frequent author appearances, free live music on the Third Place Stage and a demonstration kitchen. If you get tired of book browsing, settle in for a game of chess on the giant chess board.