PPeople who show you new books are important. That’s why Tombolo Books has a special place in the hearts of so many in St. Pete. The beloved independent bookstore is celebrating its five-year anniversary on Saturday, December 14. Located in the vibrant Grand Central District at 2153 1st Avenue S, the store has become a staple in the local literary community—and its anniversary party promises to be a day of excitement and celebration.
Founded by Alsace Walentine and Candice Anderson, Tombolo Books began its journey as a pop-up shop in the EDGE District before moving into its current brick-and-mortar location. Even in its early days, the bookstore was a fixture at literary events throughout St. Pete, selling books from a small table at gatherings and offering a taste of what was to come. Today, Tombolo Books boasts an intimate and curated shop with an unmissable mural by local artist Leo Gomez. Grab a selfie, pick up a book, enjoy your afternoon.
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Tombolo Books is a must-visit destination in St. Pete
More than just a place to buy books, Tombolo Books has become a community hub where readers can discover new titles, meet authors, and enjoy a range of events. Bookstores are places of discovery after all. Tombolo introduced me to Worm Fiddling Nocturne in the Key of a Broken Heart—a short story collection by Florida author Kimberly Lojewski that I never would have come across had it not been for one of their myriad author panels.
Tombolo’s programming extends far beyond its impressive collection of titles. The store offers over a dozen book clubs, hosts storytime events for kids, and regularly organizes events for literary fans of all ages and genre preferences. Book lovers have also had the opportunity to meet celebrated authors such as Laura Van Den Berg, Kristen Arnett, Gabino Iglesias, and Jeff VanderMeer.
Celebrating local businesses and local authors
The bookstore’s role in St. Pete’s cultural landscape is further supported by its collaboration with neighboring businesses. Tombolo is part of a vibrant trio of local shops, with Rabbit Rabbit offering smoothies, coffee, and vegan sandwiches, and Black Crow Coffee providing expertly roasted brews. The success of these businesses is intertwined, helping to maintain that special “old St. Pete” charm.
These bada** booksellers persevered through the pandemic, literally biked book deliveries to customers when the store couldn’t open, and prove month after month that bookstores are so back. This is why shopping small and supporting local matters so much.
The anniversary celebration, set for December 14, promises a festive atmosphere with a holiday market in the courtyard, featuring local vendors such as Print St. Pete, Twisted Indian, and Crumb Factory.
A night market in the courtyard
Guests can also enjoy tarot readings from The Obsidian Corona and sip on drinks from Black Crow Coffee and Rabbit Rabbit. Special guest L.L. Kirchner will join the festivities to debut her new crime novel, Vegas Girls. Tombolo Books’ staff will be on hand to chat about favorite holiday book recommendations, wrap gifts, and share in the joy of this milestone.
Yes, that’s right, they offer gift wrapping (and they might be the best wrappers in the region). And if you have no idea what to get, Tombolo’s blind date books are irresistible and totally charming.
Keep up with all of the store’s upcoming events here.
Local poet celebrates YA debut at the bookstore
Special note: The incredible Gloria Munoz will celebrate her debut YA novel This is the Year at Tombolo Books on January 6 at 7pm. A bit about the book from the publisher: “Told in gripping prose interspersed with poems from Juli’s writing journal, this genre-bending novel explores themes of immigration, climate justice, grief, and the power of communities.”
Munoz will be joined by Carmen Alvarez to kick off the shop’s 2025 event season. RSVP and get your copy of the book here.
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