Rickert & Beagle Books

I love this place — then again, I’m such a book nerd that I end up loving any store that still sells hard copy books these days. But I particularly love Rickert & Beagle Books; it’s such an excellent addition to the South Hills area and it’s the perfect place for a fantasy and sci-​fi fan like myself. Also, I kind of have to love this place just because of the people behind it. Locals may remember that this store used to be Eljay’s Books when it was under slightly different management. Now it’s owned by Chris Rickert and fantasy author Peter S. Beagle — one of my favorite authors, in fact.
With owners like that, this store has just naturally evolved into an eclectic and fun little place. Stop in and you’ll be able to browse through selections of sci-​fi, fantasy, horror, mystery, paranormal studies and history books. It seems like there’s at least a book or two from every other genre as well, but that list is really where the focus lies — which I love, because as memory serves the average selection was more or less the exact reverse back when bookstores were more commonplace. Plus, here there’s just as many smaller names as there are names of renowned authors sitting on the shelves. I actually came in once with a friend and the store took her own book on consignment, so I can promise that the chances of you finding an «off the beaten path» book here are pretty high.
Thanks to this varied selection of books from so many genres and a big background of names, it’s easy to get lost in here for hours just browsing titles. It doesn’t hurt that you can also buy other trinkets here, such as Rickert’s knitted wizard and bunny figures and jewelery made by a friend of the store. Add in the special displays featuring various autographed and rare books, as well as the special events that are hosted here (where you can purchase special edition products, enjoy some snacks and live music, and more) and you’ve got a cool little addition to the community that I really hope is able to stay in business for a long time to come.

This is hands down one of the best bookstores around. Chris will order books for you if there is something specific you want, but more importantly there is a great selection in all genres to browse. I cannot express how important these small bookstores are to me, that said, there is something here for every one.

I specifically travel to Pittsburgh just to visit this amazing bookstore. While it specializes in genre fiction (sci-​fi, fantasy, horror), I’ve found gems in other areas as well (fiction, history, erotica, poetry). Everything is organized, easy to find, and fairly priced. The owner is super-​friendly and genuinely passionate about books and her offerings! She’s got amazing stories about meeting different authors and an impressive collection of limited-​edition and autographed items. There are regular events like readings that are always worth the trip! The best bookstore in town. Period.