BS
Black Swan Books
Where history and stories come alive on every shelf.
4.8(5 reviews)
$$
retail-store
bookstores
antiques
Browse a wide selection of pre-owned, antique, and rare books, including first editions and historical pieces.
Find affordable, random books in our budget-friendly bin, perfect for discovering new reads.
Explore books by Kentucky and regional authors, with staff recommendations for hidden gems.
Get personalized help from our knowledgeable owner and staff to find books tailored to your interests.
Discover unique books and items ideal for gifts, with a focus on rare and collectible options.
Enjoy a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with opportunities for chats and local book discussions.
Where history and stories come alive on every shelf.
No photos available
Black Swan Books is a cherished independent bookstore in Lexington, offering a curated collection of used, vintage, and antique books. Specializing in rare finds, first editions, and local Kentucky authors, we provide a cozy, welcoming space for book lovers to explore. Our knowledgeable owner and friendly staff are dedicated to helping you discover hidden gems, from $1 bargain bins to collectible pieces. Whether you're a history buff, literature enthusiast, or gift hunter, our diverse selection and community-focused atmosphere make every visit an adventure.
Great little spot, tons of old and unique books. Super friendly I guess owner/manager, such a super kind gentleman. Wonderful experience, my husband found a few books to buy and we will definitely be back!!
I thought I was stopping into a bookstore just to kill some time when I had a few hours between what I was doing today, but it literally turned into an adventure! This bookstore is absolutely life-changing, and I really mean that! If you love history OR books in any capacity, definitely check this place out. There are books for everybody… nonfiction books, instructional books, biographies, classical, literature, pieces, poetry books, plays, and more. Beyond that, many of these books are from bygone eras. I literally HELD a book that was published about history pertaining to Westminster Abbey that was published during the reign of Queen Victoria of England. There were MANY vintage and antique books in each room. There are many books that were first editions, or definitely have stories to them beyond just what is written inside them. I ended up getting four books and I literally stopped in just to check Black Swan out. They even have a bin full of one dollar books where you can find a lot of random options for such a cheap price. I bought two from this Ben and I am excited to read them. not to mention, the owner of the bookstore is extremely nice, and is a very sweet man. He was very helpful and kind to talk with. I highly recommend spending some time exploring this store and just flipping through these unique books to see what all is featured in this cool collection. It is truly a GEM in Lexington!
Charming, well-curated little bookstore with shelves full of surprises. I walked out with two titles I didn’t know I needed. The staff knows their stuff and is happy to point you toward hidden gems and local-interest finds. It can feel a bit tight when it’s busy and some rare/collectible prices run high, but the quality selection makes it worth the browse. Great spot for book lovers and gift hunting.
Such a great bookstore! Mostly used with some new ones blended in. My friends took us here while we were in town, and I learned a lot about local authors and the owner was super knowledgeable and helpful. I ended up stocking up on Kentucky authors that I was missing out on! It was cozy and well organized and the owner chatted with us for a long time, and even shared some of his pub cheese from his lunch with me! The community feeling was so strong here, and if I find myself back in Lexington I’ll have to stop back in!
Awesome little book store! Owner was very nice and friendly. I think he told me that he had been there for like 39 years!
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