The Vermont Book Shop

Founded in 1949 by Dyke Blair, the Vermont Bookshop has stood as a literary cornerstone in downtown Middlebury for more than 75 years. What began as one man’s vision has since passed through generations of ownership, each adding their own chapter to the story. In 2005, the shop found its current owner, a lifelong reader who, with no retail background but plenty of determination, embraced the challenge of carrying the bookshop forward. Nearly two decades later, her commitment to books and community has made the store an essential part of Middlebury life.

Welcome to the Vermont Bookshop, a downtown staple that goes far beyond shelves and sales - it’s a space where stories, people, and community meet.

The Vermont Bookshop, located right in the heart of Middlebury’s downtown, is not your typical retail store. Restocked daily with new titles, staffed entirely by women, and alive with the rhythm of readers coming and going, it’s a place where literature never sits still. Every book on the shelf carries not only a story on the page but the collective effort of a team that pours their energy into keeping the shop fresh and inviting.

Step inside, and you’ll feel the hum of a business that has grown alongside its town. From conversations at the register to bumping into the “bookshop lady” at the grocery store, the store’s connections extend far beyond its walls. December is an especially magical time - more than 20% of annual sales happen during that single month, with Christmas Eve marking both a joyful culmination and a promise that the best is yet to come.

What sets the Vermont Bookshop apart is its role as an anchor of Middlebury’s downtown. Through decades of change - from the rise of online shopping to shifting retail landscapes - the bookshop has remained steady, keeping the heart of town vibrant and alive. For the owner, it’s not just about books; it’s about protecting the pulse of downtown and ensuring that community remains at the center.

The Vermont Bookshop thrives not just because of its history, but because of the people who bring it to life - the staff who tirelessly stock the shelves, the customers who return year after year, and the small-town spirit that makes everyone feel known. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a student at Middlebury College, or simply passing through, the bookshop is a place where you’ll always be welcomed.

What should you expect when visiting the Vermont Bookshop? To put it simply, a constant supply of new titles arriving daily, some of the most friendly and welcoming people you’ll meet, and most of all, the experience of being part of a community where books truly matter.

Vermont Bookshop
38 Main Street
Middlebury, VT 05753

(802) 388-2061

Open Monday – Saturday / 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday / 11 AM – 3 PM