Sister's Uptown Bookstore

232 reviews

1942 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10032

www.sistersuptownbookstore.com

+12128623680

About

Sister's Uptown Bookstore is a Book store located at 1942 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10032. It has received 232 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday12-6PM
Tuesday12-6PM
Wednesday12-6PM
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
Saturday12-6PM
Sunday12-6PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Sister's Uptown Bookstore: 1942 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10032

  • Sister's Uptown Bookstore has 4.8 stars from 232 reviews

  • Book store

  • "This quaint bookstore is a readers dream"

    "This is a great little spot independently owned by a woman that previously worked as a licensed physician's assistant"

    "This bookstore is a gem in the Uptown neighborhood of Hamilton Heights"

    "Ordered two books over a month ago but since so many people wanted to show their support in this trying time they were sold out and out of print"

    "Absolutely love this book store "

Reviews

  • Karrim Randall

This quaint bookstore is a readers dream. The range of titles inspires the exploration of subjects that the reader may not be familiar with--which is a great thing. The owner was working the floor herself, which was a great opportunity for the customers to delve deeply into any subject they stumbled upon. All of my questions were answered with a courteous smile and a gracious poise. She loved the fact that I was an informed reader who genuinely loves books. I was amazed at the amount of books that she donates to the community for free. Over all, this is one of the best bookstores in New York City.

  • C

This is a great little spot independently owned by a woman that previously worked as a licensed physician's assistant. In addition to books the store also offers drinks and snacks, as well as a variety of art and items of cultural interest. The store will order your desired book upon request if they do not stock it. The store also hosts a few monthly book club meetings that I've had the pleasure of attending. I love this little spot and love supporting independently owned and operated small businesses by women such as this.

  • Detria Davu

This bookstore is a gem in the Uptown neighborhood of Hamilton Heights. I'm sorry I didn't visit or patronize sooner but this will be my one stop shop for books as long as I am a resident. The owners are friendly helpful and knowledgeable. I feel at home when I step into the door and the variety of books are great. Customer service if impeccable and I enjoy the light conversation amongst the regulars and the workers always.

  • Amanda M

Ordered two books over a month ago but since so many people wanted to show their support in this trying time they were sold out and out of print. I emailed about the status of my order and they were great about responding promptly. My books have finally been delivered and I’m just in constant awe over the first book I received because it’s that good. I’m happy to continue supporting a staple of Harlem.

  • Jessica Washington

Absolutely love this book store . I definitely jump at the chance to support black owned businesses . Mama Janifer's store has bee around for over 10 years and I love all the updates that have come. She deserves it. Her vast selection and knowledge is amazing . She gives those in the community a place to learn, grow and display may talents. There is a yummy juice bar with delicious vegan cakes .

  • Dawn Williams

This is my favorite bookstore in Harlem the owner is a beautiful beautiful Queen with an amazing Spirit. They have mostly every book on Black culture as well as accessories and apparel. They also have interaction with the community through live events for children, and upcoming artists. I also recall getting a piece of delicious chocolate cake too.

  • Marilyn Ramos

i am so grateful about 6 years ago i happened to find this haven during my lunch hour about 6 (?) years ago...the hospitality along with an enormous variety of awesome books is outstanding ...i can hardly leave the store without making a purchase...also the social events are inspirational...i share Sisters to friends and strangers to visit....

  • Ladie Erica

I absolutely love this place. They have many activities there throughout the week. The owner and family are amazing with a wonderful vibe. Once a month there is an amazing sound meditation with gong master Sunseed who is exquisite in relaxing the body and mind. He gives a total alignment and restoration. Everything here is cool and tranquil.

  • MaryLouise Patterson

It is a warm and welcoming, chock full of books with a nice selection of ethnic goodies. The owners are accommodating and embedded in the community. The focus is on writers of color but they carry all manner of books and authors.They have several book clubs and hold classes as well. They are a small business making a big difference.

  • Gisela Jimenez

Good selection of books. A little gem in the neighborhood. Calm and clean. Friendly neighborhood friends who want to have conversations with you. The manager was helpful and even asked for suggestions. Wish I lived in the neighborhood because their book club sounds awesome- their books picks are great! Definitely recommend.

  • Body By Margo MBelton

the Only Black owned bookstore in a city of 8.6 million Is welcoming to all Great used section Spolen Word Nights. Book Club fridge with great ginger beer and cake for sale Actually a. place to Not Use a laptop.Intellectual impromptu discussions due to smart people of all races dropping in Nice to gentrifiers too

  • Marilyn Le

What an amazing bookstore. I have never been to a bookstore that has such a wonderfully curated selection of books. Very high quality, mindful reading. The staff are absolutely kind and genuine people. I cannot express enough how much I appreciate finding this place. Truly a gem.

  • Suzanne L

Awesome independent book store in Washington Heights that is open, though with limited hours. If you want to help keep this gem around, please go and buy some books. For those on a budget, there are low-cost items outside for adults and some very inexpensive titles for kids.

  • Ali Milliner

It's not just a book store, but a cultural center. The ladies are helpful and insightful. The selection of books are great and eclectic. I block from the c train makes it very convenient to find. Go and buy a book, watch poetry, or attend a book signing. Harlem at its best.

  • Richard Robinson

Best way to describe Sister's Uptown Bookstore: This what it would be like if you're Grandmas, Nanas, "Memas" and Aunties bought a storefront, made it feel like you're Childhood living room then filled with books written for your education and celebration. Yeah, like that.

  • Liseli P.

Thus shop is amazing. The ladies here make you feel so at home it's a small slice of Africa in the middle of nyc. And they will recommend books to you and discuss books with you and you can sit for as long as you like in wonderful company. Children are welcome too.

  • Kj Wyrtch

Great ambience to peruse through literature and merchandise from Black American literary artist and the African Diaspora. Very community oriented and a cozy space for small social gatherings. Managers are always approachable and wiiling to accommodate your vision.

  • Shawn Fowles

I really enjoy going to this black owned bookstore to buy books and their delectable oatmeal raisin cookies. I just wish they would have a label for the ingredients on the cookies, so that people who are allergic to certain food would know what's in the cookies.

  • DjaDja N Medjay

Always a pleasure to visit. An excellent resource for African American Studies as well as contemporary sociology. Besides its literary resources, this place has wonderful community events weekly!!! Definitely a great place to visit in Washington Heights!!!

  • Rachael

This is amazing Black owned business run by really wonderful people. They have a great selection all around, but I was especially impressed by the history and political nonfiction sections. I believe they give a 10% discount to students, too.

  • Jeremy Porter

Excellent bookstore with some real gems (new and used, children/youth/fiction/non-fiction) in stock. The cafe had a nice selection of hot beverages and pastries (including vegan options). The staff were friendly, helpful...reminded me of my

  • Nnenna Umelloh

This is a black female owned bookstore and I love it! All the books here have been specifically curated with a black audience in mind. I enjoy the ambiance and appreciate the events they do to support local black authors as well. This was

  • Brenda Hilaire

I love this book store! It is chock full of literary jewels, and a staff that makes you feel like family! Truly one of my favorite places to visit and purchase books from! They also host events for the community! Just fantastic!

  • mj james

No words for how great this bookstore is. As this area gentrifying at high levels. Nice to see this place in Harlem. Many events and the wisdom filled in this place is much needed. A black business this community needs.

  • Benn Dennison

You just got to love this place, during the week they have different authors, and speakers that host their own function at the bookstore. Not to mention that's it's the only black bookstore in the area. Kudos sisters.

  • Freda Henderson

If you like books and want to read the latest black writers, this is the place to go. It's always something to talk about with the owner and staff. They make you feel like an old friend who has come to say hello!

  • Alex Scioscia

Ordered a book online, "Changing the Equation: 50+ US Black Women in STEM." It arrived quickly, and in perfect condition. I can't wait to use it in my classroom next year! Thank you Sister's Uptown!

  • Manal Ahmed

The ladies were so warm and welcoming and dedicated. The business has been running for over 20 years now and I am happy to support, especially seeing the incredible collection of authors and works.

  • Smitty Smith

Such a little gem. Great selection in their area pf focus, very friendly and helpful staff. The sort of place that deserves your support. And they gave my wife a discount for being an educator!

  • Jasmyn

Great independent bookstore, Black woman owned. The only Black owned bookstore in Manhattan I believe. The owner is very kind and has a great selection of books! I love coming in here.

  • Tayla Bolden

What a special special place. This is a community staple and I hope it continues to receive love and support for many years to come. Wonderful selection of books and community events!

  • Brandon Schulz

Great customer experience with shopping online at Sister's Uptown Bookstore. When the mail lost my book and it never arrived they were able to send a copy and it was signed! 5 stars!

  • BxLori

Beautiful bookstore filled with various books, but especially featuring African American stories and authors. Lovely staff , try a vegan food item , they actually taste good, Lol.

  • Lulu Jones

What a wonderful black book store. I have been going to this book store for 18 years. The only black book store left. The owner is a lovely person. Don't pass this book store by.

  • WillieMaeBrown

Ms. Jennifer is a deep and passionate woman who runs this bookstore like a staff of 4 people. It was my pleasure to talk with her about Harlem and the Sisters Uptown Bookstore.

  • Amy Obonaga

Great place! I am Afo-Colombian and wanted a children's book for brown boys in Spanish! They had it!!!! What more can I say. You want to see yourself--you are there already.

  • Integrated Therapeutic Bodywork

Pillar of the community for over two decades. A pleasure to visit a piece of HARLEM and WASHINGTON HISTORY IN THE MAKING. You need a book...they'll find it. Awesome events.

  • Tony “Sunseed” Palmer

One of my favorite cultural community bookstores. The Sound Bath meditation offered every last Wednesday monthly, is truly an amazing and relaxing introspective experience!

  • Jazmine

Super helpful when you go in and have no problem locating items for you. Has a wide selection of books and other traditional items such as cloth, jewelry and oils.

  • RONALD GILCHRIST

A iconic fixture in the community ran by a Proud Beautiful Black Queen and her family.Educational and building strength in the community and neighborhood .

  • Saturn

Sister's Uptown Bookstore is a fountain of knowledge staff is welcoming and friendly I enjoyed browsing and purchasing some books and other items

  • JC Moses

Very good vibes. I needed two books, they had one of the books. Jennifer ordered the other book for me. Very friendly lady and atmosphere.

  • Zippy

Amazing mother-daughter run bookstore! Super homey and comfy and both ladies were amazingly friendly and funny. I can't wait to come back!

  • Juan Brito

Love that this bookstore was brought to our neighborhood 19 years ago. Amazing books with knowledge that we should all have access to.

  • Debra Johnson

Small and quaint, but have lots of character and a good selection black history books, and gifts. Vegan pastries, juices are available

  • Rebecca MacLean

A wonderful welcoming bookstore owned by black women that is welcoming to everyone! Tuesdays at 2 they have storytelling once a month.

  • Z Charles Creations

I love the place. What an amazing little book store. It has heart and soul...very warm and friendly staff. They make you feel at home

  • Alisha Docter

Exactly what a bookstore should be like. Great energy. Given off, great selection, and coffee bar. Would suggest them to everyone.

  • Zeta Zimmer

Nice selection of food and drinks, and some great discount books. Lots of stuff from indie publishers you won't find on Amazon!

  • Bratty God

I love this bookstore! It's cozy, there's always an event happening & the staff members are very friendly and helpful …

  • Robin Dickens

Great family-run neighborhood bookstore. Nice selection, yes, but truly wonderful vibe.. come & browse & read & learn & buy!

  • Adrienne King

They carry a lot of older books by BIPOC authors. It would be nice if they had more of a variety between new & older books.

  • Sean C Turner

Warm and friendly environment. A true neighborhood bookstore serving the needs of area. The owner is hands on and available

  • Scarver

Great establishment, the owner is a very sweet lady who enjoys what she does. Had all the books I was looking to find.

  • Dara M

Such a great space for buying your books and for community gatherings. Janifer is such a pleasure to see when there!

  • Nefertiti P. Arthur

Intimate space & Family owned business with many titles; host many events from book signings to live performances.

  • V W

Awesome neighborhood book store! They are always hosting different events. Great atmosphere for adults and kids.

  • Sheryl Watson

Great local neighborhood bookstore! Friendly, helpful staff and a lovely ambiance. Go. You won't regret it!

  • Alice Betrand

The owner welcome all to the community to learn about the black experience of this excellent bookstore.

  • Chloe Wright

A gem in the neighborhood. Wonderful community bookstore, excellent selection, and beautiful people.

  • Ricky PMA Young

When I walked into Sisters Uptown Bookstore, I felt very welcomed, I felt like I was Home!

  • Mary Amalbert

Great place to purchase books for a good read. They also have book signings on occasion.

  • Abel Caceres

It’s a beautiful book store. They’ve been closed the last week thou I hope they re open

  • Challah GoLightly

Wonderful independent bookstore. It's where I buy both new and used books.

  • Bruh Moment

Terrible experience. So many Karen’s in the book store. Don’t recommend.

  • Daniel Laroche

Excellent selection of books and artifacts! Thanks for all you do!

  • Fredericka Woodford

Always good vibes @ Sister's uptown bookstore …

  • Christopher Shelley

A classy old timey bookstore with charming proprietors.

  • B Ceasar

Great staff help and lots of book options.

  • Ali Vira

Fantastic local spot with lots of events

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