Customer service could use a boost. Walked up to the outside window to place an order as it has a sign pointing saying you could order there. They ignored me as folks looked at me as they were making drinks never acknowledged that I was standing there and just kept going about their business. Eventually a guy comes over opens the windows and says, yeah what can I get you? He seemed annoyed so I asked him was it ordering at the window a thing because he seemed agitated. He proceeds to say, yeah I mean I guess. I said is it or not because I can order inside if that is easier. He takes my order acting really annoyed and hands me my drink does not say thank you or enjoy or come back to see us nothing. It was off putting because I love the space and have been multiples times. Now it seems like a typical austin shop where you can’t really get a seat unless you get there super early and instead of reading books that you bought or brought to read it’s just a spot to work remotely laptops everywhere. Takes away some of the essence. Oh and the inside is always super crowded around the ordering area no real understanding of where the line should be and tables oddly placed in the middle. Hopefully with this feedback they will improve some of these things.

I’ve been here before and really loved the place. I brought a friend today to check it out and was truly saddened and honestly angered by what I saw. First Light decided to stock their front table with a semi-fictional comedy about the Netanyahus, a book about Ukraine, a book about the Irish Troubles, a book about American Muslims generally, and “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” (which has been frequently criticized for its Zionism) all side-by-side. Only other book we could find about Palestine was called “Under Jerusalem” which was about an exploration of an underground tunnel system. The arrangement of books, and the otherwise lacking selection, casted a giant magnifying glass on the decision to not include any books regarding the historical subjugation and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people. It’s like if you’re not going to say anything, don’t place books together that demonstrate that you are fully aware of what’s happening right now. It’s mocking, disrespectful, and frankly irresponsible considering the active genocide that is happening right now that has already left 30,000 dead. I hope First Light does better in the future. Consider going to Black Pearl Books instead which has a great selection on Palestine.

I really really wanted to like this place. There was a lot of hype surrounding their opening, and I was ultimately underwhelmed. I spent nearly $30 just for a glass of house wine and a spritz for my partner. The barista/bartender seemed very frazzled and unenthusiastic for such a quiet part of the day (I came in the evening on a week night). Visually, it was stunning—clearly a lot of thought of and care went into the design. However, I found it confusing to navigate as a bookstore. Also, I couldn’t tell who worked there, and both times I’ve visited I wasn’t greeted or acknowledged. There’s plenty of outdoor space to read and converse with friends, which is a plus! Inside feels crammed and it seems many folks are trying to make the few indoor reading chairs their mobile office, setting up their laptops on their, well, laps. I just hoped this place would feel more “analog” I guess? I’m not sure if I’ll come back, but I live so close and I hope things will improve as time goes on.

This space has it all: Books, reading spots, tables to work on your laptop, and fantastic coffee and drinks. The staff is super friendly, and they will soon remember your usual drinks or help you find any book you are looking for. Their collection has a huge range of genres and holds from fresh releases to classics. Once you grab your book you can sit outside or take refuge from the cold/heat on one of the book nooks inside (nothing like reading surrounded by more books!). It gets super busy on the weekend, but you can always get a drink to go! One of my favorites is the matcha, which is well done and not filled with sugar. Their ciders are good as well. This place has been a blessing for Hyde Park, for Austin in general, and a great refuge to read, chat, and work for people of all ages--even the kids get their huge selection of books! Bring your book, a good vibe, and you'll find a cozy bookstore to hang out at!

It's an impressive beginning. The aesthetic is clean and modern, yet still Hyde Park. There's a certain care for the whole experience of going, for coffee or for books, that retail just has to cultivate. I mean, compared to Quacks, where the experience is an afterthought at best, the entire place radiates intentionality. The book selection is what I'd expect for the area, and is otherwise unremarkable. In some ways, its remarkable for its slight age already. The coffee, alas, is the same terrible, acidic non-water that you can find down the street. I find it undrinkable. This wasn't too surprising -- no coffee brand in particular is highlighted, and the entire coffee experience was very utilitarian. But I would probably never buy coffee there again.

What a beautiful bookstore and what a nice place to hang out! Came out here after hearing about it on Insta and I decided I'd have myself a wonderful "me day" by starting my self date day here. Definitely not a mistake y'all. Oh this place is so gorgeous. The stained glass window, the displays, everything about this place is such a calming factor. They do have a yearly membership that they offer, and if I lived closer I would find it highly beneficial, but for $99 a year you get 20% all your purchases, delivery within a 5 mile radius and free drip coffee. MY SOUL. If you live close, love books and coffee I would 100% recommend. I grabbed myself a few books, a croissant and tea while I was here. I can't wait to plan another day to come back!

Absurdly priced and overwhelmingly mediocre.. Wanted to like the place but no one there really seemed interested in even looking at customers... and almost $9 for a dirty chai before tip is literally more than Ive paid at any shop in the entire city, and I've been to pretty much all of them. There are also only like 6 seats indoor which means you're usually stuck outside, which is unfortunate given the near constant construction nearby.. I could get over the rest.. but not while paying $9-10 for a coffee... I get Hyde Park is bougie these days but come on.. There are 6 local coffee shops within a stones throw that manage to price their products reasonably, with more seating and employees who make eye contact

First Light is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. The space is charming and inviting with radiant natural light and thoughtful finishes. A cozy coffee/snack bar is a smart contribution to the energy of the space. Often, bookstores can be stale, quiet and boring - NOT First Light. The energy, conversation and effervescence is palpable. Refined breadth of books to start - several areas can be improved but that will come with time. Friendly staff already ordered several books for me, arriving within a couple days. Missing only a bike rack for those of us in the peloton, which I'm sure is in the works. Well done First Light, be encouraged for what you have brought to the neighborhood.

A bit underwhelming. My favorite thing about independent bookstores is wandering through the shelves and finding those books I haven't heard of before, but First Light seems to only carry bestsellers and viral popularity books. The layout was awkward and cramped and not conducive to browsing for any length of time. Can't say much to the cafe as it was too hot to sit outside when I went (there's very little seating inside), but it looked a little chaotic. Hardly any space to wait in line much less wait for your order. I'm hoping to come back in a month or two and give this place another shot when it's cooler and I can enjoy their outside space. Curious to see if it improves with time.

Of course I loved it. Decent size and variety of selection, especially fiction and a children's corner. Gorgeous new renovation of an older building. They have a coffee/wine bar. The coffee window opens at 7am to enjoy a coffee and pastry on their huge outdoor seating area (but the actual bookstore opens at 9am). They also stay open as late as 9pm! Other pros: + Annual membership for a discount with every purchase and free drip coffee each visit. +Plenty of off street parking. Cons: -No specialty book areas such as LGBTQ, etc. -Nonfiction area is smaller

Ah, behold this marvelous nook for book lovers! It's like stumbling upon a literary TARDIS – small on the outside, but once you step in, it's a vast universe of books waiting to transport you to countless worlds. The ambiance here wraps around you like a warm hug, making it nearly impossible to leave without a novel tucked under your arm and a smile on your face. It's a refreshing change from the often sterile, grocery store-like environments of most big bookstores nowadays. Give this place a shot, you won't regret it.

I ordered a mocha that inexplicably cost $8. It was quite small and also not good. As a new business, their employees may still be honing their barista skills? My primary takeaway is that for a community bookstore, this place doesn't feel very community-based. I'm an English teacher and live in the neighborhood, so I had high hopes for First Light, but I felt pretty out of place here. I've been in twice, and wasn't greeted or approached by staff. The space is undeniably beautiful, but the elitism is palpable.

I was disappointed in the lack of diverse book offerings and no mention of the attack on banned books during Banned Books Week. Independent bookstores, especially new ones opening during this climate, have a responsibility to stand for access and opportunity for all readers, especially our youth, in the face of this censorship. Other independent bookstores in the city, including Black Pearl Books and BookPeople, are doing so much to protect our right to read. I encourage you to support them.

Decent selection of books, nothing too groundbreaking. A decent spot to purchase popular books. I am surprised that they do not list any food or drink prices on their menu--in this economy? lol. I was happy to see a selection of stationary, but it wasn't a wide spread. It's a cozy place in a great location that sells new books (not used, just want to add clarity), however it feels like it's built by and for upper middle class folks rather than the average person.

It’s cute, clean, and has some decent seating for its café, but the book selection is what I would call “mainstream” and “small.” I’m really not sure why that combination of selection would exist in a bookshop. In my experience, either you have a large selection (e.g. BookPeople), or you have a small, niche selection (e.g. Black Pearl Books). This place has all of the books you can find in the airport bookstores…and almost nothing else. Very strange.

Just inside then to the left then at the corner to the right past one two three maybe four bookshelves and a window that might just be a memory of mine (the window's first) on the top shelf or the second shelf down at the very end (in the romanized way - the very beginning in the hebraic) or second from the end is a short collection of children's stories translated into English. I think you should read them. I know if I live long enough I will.

Congrats to First Light for an incredibly successful grand opening! I’ve been biking over to check on construction progress for months now, so it was amazing seeing it all come together. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to create a beautiful, cozy-yet-airy store with a delicious cafe. Really great selection of books and so many little places to sit and flip through pages for a while.

You can tell from the niche selections that the First Light team have a real dedication to seeking out small, interesting and unexpected publications. Only downside (for the shopper) is that it’s been busy since opening so all the good books sell out same-day. If you’re here for a good find, go early or ask the booksellers what sells out to get a recommendation.

Delightful vibes, immaculately designed, and an expertly curated selection. It's a perfect community bookstore, absolutely knocked it out of the park. The food is even good! My only complaint about this place is how busy it's inevitably gonna get once everyone finds out how cute it is. We need to keep this place off listicles for as long as possible.

Great selection of books! You can expect to have to fight for browsing space on a busy Sunday! Only downfall, the staff! When I checked out, the cashier was talking to her coworker the entire time, did not say a word to me & just handed me my books while still maintaing her conversation. No "thanks" of "have a good day" and also no receipt .

I hate to not give this cute neighborhood bookstore 5 stars, but the lack of reliable wifi ruined my experience. Unless you’re sitting directly in the shop, the wifi simply won’t work, meaning you cannot enjoy working in their beautiful outdoor space. I requested help multiple times, but alas, no one addressed the problem or even followed up :(

I am so happy to see this joyful space open in Hyde Park- I love the beautifully curated book selection and had fun reading to my toddler in the sweet little kids area. Everyone was kind and helpful, the coffee was delicious, and the space was welcoming and warm! Thank you for opening such a thoughtfully put together neighborhood business!

A bit crowded bc they JUST opened, but incredibly beautiful inside. Selection of books is fair, would love to see a foreign language section (although I might’ve missed that due to how busy they were) and more variety on the graphic novel selection. Coffee is very tasty. Good addition to the very healthy bookstore ecosystem in Austin.

Not a good bookstore, not a good cafe. It’s so disappointing to see businesses like this operating in Austin, in this era. Compared to other bookstores and cafes I have visited in North America, First Light has been the worst one. Owner or management really needs to focus on either having a great bookstore or a great cafe.

Awesome bookstore & reuse of an old post office. The inside space is beautiful — lots of natural light. Some seating inside & lots outside. I came on the one rainy summer day and can totally see this as my WFH spot come fall! I recommend the vanilla latte. They make all of their syrups. Cheers!! ☕️ …

I went Friday before the grand opening. Great little shop! Was able to pick up 2 new books and try some coffee shop beverages. Matcha is strong! So try and maybe ask for extra milk (Iced Matcha Latte) Indoor seating is limited but they have plenty! Shaded outdoor seating :) Welcome to the neighborhood!

Absolutely cute lil shop :) I love the wide variety and selection they offer and how they’ve crossed over the world of coffee and books. Lots of good reads can be found here and there is seating to enjoy and sip on some lovely coffee :) for sure will bring my love on a future date here

Such a cute spot! Great service and good coffee! I found all the books I’ve been looking for a struggled to decide which ones to get.. I will say though their drip and espresso are great their matcha was not at all mixed (literal chunks of powder in my drink) and I wound not recommend.

A truly beautiful, intentional space. Staff is always kind and inviting. My favorite place to walk my dog to in the morning for a coffee and pastry or at night for some wine. This is exactly what our neighborhood needed, and the neighborhood is better with First Light in it ❤️

Beautiful bookstore! Seriously, it belongs in a movie about opening a cafe and bookstore in a historic neighborhood in a space that used to be a post office...but it really exists! Coffee and pastries (by Texas French Bread) are super and the place is the definition of cozy!

Amazing place! A beautiful interior with lots of natural light, well curated books/products, and a nice little cafe. Very busy when we were there but that added to the vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor seating is good though was filled up by the time we got there.

I love a good bookstore, and I love a good coffeeshop. First Light has both, and I couldn't be happier! I was at the opening, and was so pleased with the large crowd. I wish I had a picture of the entry door and the furniture. Just a great place.

Cute indie book shop. Went on a fairly busy Sunday morning. Ventilation was a bit poor and no sign of HEPA filtration or signage about HVAC filtration efforts. Outdoor seating would be a great spot to meet with a fellow bibliophile.

Beautifully curated book shop and cafe in Hyde Park located in the old post office. Such a pretty space and the book selection is top notch! Can’t wait to return. There is a good sized parking lot and seating indoors and outdoors.

Amazing little bookshop. Many reading nooks, a child section with adapted furniture, a small coffee shop with a great outdoor patio. You'll want to spend more more there and end up reading something.

Amazing bookshop! Great selection of modern and classic books in all genres. Such a great layout, friendly and helpful staff, impeccable music and amazing lighting. Excited to try the coffee next!

We went to the grand opening today. Such a cool new neighborhood bookstore, coffee shop, with beer and wine as a ++. Great selection of books and a delicious Latte. Check it out for sure

Beautiful new bookstore with a nicely curated selection. Their fiction section is especially great. Cute coffee bar serving coffee, tea, beer, and wine. Will be spending a lot of time here!

Came to check out the opening everyone in Austin came too but only for standing around and talking to friends in store so you can't look at anything. I'd suggest waiting a few weeks to go.

Great location. Well-curated books. Kind and knowledgeable staff. I love going early to grab a coffee from the coffee window (so serene) and browsing the store when it opens at 9.

Very poor service. They gave away my coffee and didn’t say anything until I asked. Didn’t even apologize. Really disappointing as I had a good experience the first time I came.

A beautiful bookshop with a good selection of really interesting books. The coffee shop inside is also charming. Highly recommend visiting. Personally I can't wait to go back.

first impression: honestly very cute. could have bigger selection of certain generes instead of one row. wish the staff was more welcoming but they kept to themselves. 4.1/5

☕️ Iced Vanilla Latte 세상 힙해서 깜짝놀랐네요. 적당한 소음안에서 2-3시간 글쓰거나 작업하기좋은 공간인것같아요. 와이파이도 있고 요기 오는사람들 다 흠미흠미하게 그져 힙힙. 조용한공간은아니라 완전히 소음없는곳에서 독서하시는분들은 요기는 조금시끄럽게 느껴질수도있을것같아요.

Gorgeous space full of light and a hand-picked selection of books & magazines. They also have a café serving your favorite brew & a selection of wine/beer/ciders.

This has quickly become our favorite book store! Wonderfully curated selection of books, great cafe and friendly staff. My daughter and I love it.

Beautifully designed and curated book shop with coffee and a delightful outdoor patio with tables and chairs to hangout and chat or stay and read!

This is such a cute little spot tucked away in beautiful Hyde Park. Could easily spend the whole day, with coffee, books, and great vibes why not?

Great new space on the heart of Hyde Park. Fantastic coffee, friendly staff, and I look forward to exploring their selections more.

Loved the atmosphere! Coffee was delicious. Does get quite busy but it's nice to wait for coffee while reading a book. Great vibe

Pretty. Prioritizes cafe seating over browsing through books. Hard to pick a book out when someone is sitting right next to them.

Cute new bookshop in Hyde Park. The book selection is a bit limited - would love to see a queer section. Enjoyable coffee!

The matcha latte tasted like fish - really bad fish taste which means this is really poor quality matcha. Nasty.

Very pretty but not super practical as a bookstore. Feels like a coffee shop that happens to have books in it.

This place exudes comfort and community. Stay for the coffee and ham/gruyere sandwiches while people watching.

Local book shop? Yes please! Their selection is small but solid and they're happy to order anything you want.

Such a cute and nice vibe place! Wide variety of genres, but was very packed! (For good reasons of course)

super cozy and small space inside, neighborhood shop vibes with a coffee shop inside, it was super busy

I love the employee recommendations here. I’ve never met Sam, but I trust them with my reading life.

Cute shop in Hyde park! Staff is friendly, book selection is awesome and coffee/snacks are great!

Great vibe! Nice staff at this cute little nook in the neighborhood highly recommended! …

Not often can you find a bookstore whose atmosphere and collection are both perfectly curated

Really cute shop! I was bummed about $1 upcharge for non-dairy milks at the coffee shop.

Great selection, awesome coffee and everyone is super nice. im obsessed with this shop

my favorite place to chill & read a book. excellent vibes and good coffee & snacks! ❤️

So excited for this space and business. A wonderful addition to the neighborhood.

Great spot. Good offerings and a great vibe. Glad it’s in the neighborhood.

Store was pretty smaller than I thought but the book nook bench was cute

Select book shop with great coffee bar and a fun atmosphere to hang out.

I've never paid for 8oz coffee, almost $4.00. I'll stick to starbucks.

Good selection of books! Nice atmosphere with seatings and all cafe!

Great cozy bookstore with friendly, knowledge staff and beverages

Incredible to have a place like this gem in Austin. Bravo!

Nice little bookshop with good coffee and outdoor seating

their matcha is really really bad and crazy overpriced

Cute bookstore and cafe! A great addition to the area!

Local bookshop with a barista and coffee window …

Great spot for remote workers. Very friendly staff.

Nice spot to work surrounded by beautiful books!

Cute little store with a nice staff.

Poor service, overpriced

Thank God for this place

One word: inviting.

Cute and cozy!

CAREY ROCKS!