There is nothing in this world comparable to a used bookstore: stacks of aged books with vintage covers, shelves bursting as you try to widdle out the copy you actually want, fluorescent lighting overhead softly whirring, back rooms and basements with rarities you ogle at in the case. The smell alone of used books encapsulates the comfort oozing from every surface.
I believe no college town is complete without a used bookstore. They represent longevity, a connection to generations of past alumni. Not only are you frequenting the same place that former students have, but you’re even potentially buying their books. Additionally, used books are cheaper than new ones, an essential difference for a college student.
Opened in 1993, Autumn Leaves Books has welcomed the Ithaca community for over 30 years. They pride themselves on being a place where you can both buy and sell books. The sign above the storefront screams the ’90s with the differing fonts and bright colors. I love it. A vintage sign will always be better than an uncreative modern one. The colors may be a little outdated, but they give the store charm.
Inside, the first floor is separated into different categories, ranging from more general fiction to hyper-specific nonfiction categories. There are books on different music genres, mysteries and even a section for children's books. It’s almost overwhelming at first, seeing all the different genres and books. The perfection of a used bookstore is on full display on the first floor — a treasure trove of books you have the honor of digging through to find the perfect choice for you.
The general fiction wall is massive, as expected. Books offered range from more contemporary titles (think Reese’s Book Club) to F. Scott Fitzgerald. As with every used bookstore, the copies vary in terms of condition, often having slight discoloration or dog-eared pages. To me, the lack of pristine quality is my favorite part about buying a used book. A rip or a water stain shows that the book has been read and loved. We read not to say we’ve done it, but to learn and adore the craftsmanship of words. There is nothing more perfect than the imperfection in someone's favorite copy of a beloved title. It shows our humanity, our ability to appreciate the art of words.
In 2023, Autumn Leaves was bought by PM Press, an independent publisher founded in 2007, focusing on left-wing politics and radical thinking. With the purchase, the store dropped “used” from the name and began selling the publishing company's titles. These books have their own section, where you can browse topics such as anti-fascism, Marxism and activism. In addition to their titles, the store also sells various political posters, stickers, pins and merchandise.
Walking downstairs, you’ll find yourself in a dark basement surrounded by books. The table in the middle has multiple copies of different books stacked in piles, a perfect format for book clubs. Somehow, the shelves down here are even more stuffed, with topics ranging from various religions to plays to history. The drama section is mixed, carrying both Shakespeare and obscure titles that not even a drama student would know. One of the walls carries different classics with revolving covers. I love looking at each classic edition and attempting to decode what year they were printed — I have about a 50/50 success rate.
Unlike with a regular bookstore, you aren’t able to look up if there's a specific book you need in stock. However, I find it more exciting to come in with no expectations. A clear slate allows you to dig around for something new or unexpected. For instance, I once came inside looking for a small book I could read over fall break. Walking around, I got to see the entire store before deciding on a vintage philosophy book from the ’60s. It’s so exciting for me to own something that old, knowing that multiple people have read and loved that book. The treasure-hunting method also led me to find a first edition of Joan Didion’s The White Album (my favorite book of all time). It now sits proudly on my shelf back home, next to my other Autumn Leaves purchases.
Even if you find yourself just passing through Ithaca, I cannot recommend stopping in Autumn Leaves enough. You can always manage to find something that will interest you, whether it be a book, a poster or even a t-shirt. Step in and experience the magic of a used bookstore, one that has consistently welcomed Cornellians now and then.
Kate LaGatta is a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences. She can be reached at kal273@cornell.edu.
