Left Bank Books, founded in 1969, is the oldest and largest independently-owned bookstore in St. Louis. As a cultural institution and retail business, they offer a wide range of new and used books, gifts, cards, toys, and services.

Located in the historic Central West End neighborhood, they are surrounded by beautiful turn-of-the-century residences, renowned restaurants, and prestigious art galleries. Left Bank Books is dedicated to sparking public conversation by curating an intelligent, culturally diverse selection of books. They host over 300 events per year, ranging from appearances by prominent figures like Hillary Clinton and Jimmy Carter to local poets in the River Styx Reading Series.

They also organize book clubs and offer a weekly story time. With a strong commitment to community involvement, Left Bank Books supports local organizations through donations, book fairs, and free event programming. They have also established the Left Bank Books Foundation to promote literacy and the literary arts in the St.

Louis area. Through their River City Readers Program, they provide books to students in struggling public schools, helping to inspire reading for pleasure and educational success. Left Bank Books is a customer-focused business, emphasizing community service and building relationships with their customers