We are taking our daughter to NYC during the holidays and would like to find a wonderful local children's bookstore in the city. She loves books and I thought some books would make nice souvenirs. I'm not looking for Borders or Barnes & Noble - I would prefer a hidden gem/mom & pop bookstore if possible.

Thanks!
A

A great children's bookstore is Books of Wonder on 18th St. between 5th and 6th Avenue. There is a nice cafe attached, the Cupcake Cafe, too.

Books of Wonder has terrific author's events and story time, and also sells vintage/first edition children's books.

Here's the website:
http://www.booksofwonder.com/

I was going to suggest the same store, lol. Yes it really is a cute store and well located so you shouldn't have a problem finding it.

There are a few other stores all over the city, but this is probably the biggest. They also have readings, so you might check their website for dates and times.

Another wonderful spot is Grandma's Place - in Harlem - I've spent time there and met Grandma

http://www.grandmasplaceinharlem.com/

(not sure how to turn off the music on the website though)

Also - Do stop by the Children's Room in the Public Library on 42nd Street to see the original Winnie Ther Pooh

http://www.nypl.org/research/chss/childctr/index.html

The library gift shop and the gift shops at the Met, MOMA, Guggenheim, Natural History, Tenement Museum and other non-profits have great children's book selections

Books of Wonder is a great place, another option is Bank Street Books on Broadway at 112th.

Don;t give up on B&N - the large branches have very large children's sections with frequent readings and special activities - have a look at the larger locations on their web sites.