Services Offered
Curated Book Sales
A thoughtfully selected collection of books across various genres, with ordering available for any title at competitive prices.
Bibliopub Bar Service
A draft bar on the second floor offering beer, wine, and spirits, perfect for sipping while reading or enjoying live music.
Live Music Events
Regular performances including jazz trios and local artists, with Saturday night sessions and Backwater Sessions for grown, mature crowds.
Community Events
Hosting book clubs, author talks, and other gatherings in a cozy, inviting space with indoor and outdoor seating.
Atmospheric Reading Spaces
Comfortable lounges, chairs, sofas, and tables across two floors, featuring magical decor like Harry Potter-style floating candles.
Reviews
5(5 reviews)
Rating Distribution
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M C
via Google
about 2 months ago
My husband and I caught some live jazz upstairs at the Bibliopub one night. Picture this - you’re seated on a wooden bench surrounded by stacks of books taller than you vibing to the sounds of a ridiculously talented local jazz trio (Josh Miller). The atmosphere is cozy, smooth and you feel like you unlocked a hidden gem. The crowd is grown and mature and with the front row seat to the musicians everything about it feels like a cool secret club. The Bookstore owner is serving up wine and spirits from the bar around the corner, drinks optional. I almost don’t want to give away the intel on this spot. If you have an appreciation for music, books and experiences that feel special I highly recommend. Keep an eye on their Backwater sessions for local artists. This was just my speed for date night. It’s a 10/10 for me.
S
Shannon Svia Google
3 months ago
This is a gem in our little city. A thriving bookstore with a fantastic community inside. Friendly staff, expertly cultivated book selection, libations, inside and outside seating, and thoughtful events. Maximum hygge vibes. Community book clubs frequent here. All are welcome.
D
Dvia Google
6 months ago
The COOLEST bookstore my partner and I have ever been to. Along with the a great book selection, there’s even live music (when we went) and even had a BAR upstairs! Loved the vibes and will be coming back for sure.
D
Didier Depireuxvia Google
6 months ago
Great choice of books, they will order anytime you need for the same price as any other more chain-like place. Fantastic music and beer on Saturday nights. Check out their other regular events!
5
5r1zan Gvia Google
6 months ago
I had heard a lot about Backwater Books in Old Ellicott City, and honestly—it exceeded the hype. The ambiance is fantastic, with a limited but beautifully curated collection of books. The space itself is inviting, filled with lounges, chairs, sofas, and tables spread across both the first and second floors. The second floor even has Harry Potter-style floating candles near the patio door (though they were turned off when I visited, it still looked magical). They also host live music every Saturday night at 8 pm during the summer, which adds to the charm. Their hours are: Tuesday–Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm Friday: 11 am – 10 pm Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm (Closed on Mondays) Another unique touch: there’s a draft bar on the second floor where you can sip a beer while reading or enjoy the live music on Saturday nights. Overall, it’s more than just a bookstore—it’s an experience. Highly recommend!
