Visit the shop you never expected!
Take a Queen Anne style building built in 1886, give it six months of TLC and a
total rehab, fill it with thousands of books, a first-class coffee bar with
seating area, a tiny artspace, and you've got...River Reader Books
a broad-selection, independent bookstore and coffee bar in the Downtown Historic
District, located at 1010 Main Street in Lexington, Missouri.
A curious little store filled with thousands of books and other surprises...
Reading lights, magnifiers, teas and coffee, mugs, journals, address books and
other gifty doodads...items any reader would appreciate. Plus we have gift
certificates that let the recipient pick out whatever they want from our shop.
Have you visited our unique shop? We've melded old and contemporary, effectively
mixing ornate trim and stained glass with cutting edge European details and
color to create a sophisticated atmosphere that invites you to explore a little
shop with some amazing surprises.
An urban idea imported within an historic little town. A small, comfortable cafe
area with marble tables, large windows and an artwall is the perfect setting
for reading your book or paper while you enjoy a cup of fresh coffee or other
drink.
People have commented that our centrally located coffee bar adds a tremendous
touch of class to River Reader and the rich aroma of fresh coffee travels
throughout the shop all day. State of the art equipment along with filtered and
conditioned water ensure a quality and memorable coffee product. Espressos,
lattes, mochas, chai, soft drinks along with robust Rosterie drip coffee are
served all day. Fresh baked brownies, cookies and other treats are occasionally
available.
Of course, a bookstore needs books and we have thousands. Bestsellers,
children's titles, university press titles, and some that are just plain
offbeat. We can even special order for you if you can't find what you're
looking for. We showcase some of our books on antique library tables (which are
for sale); one might look just perfect in your own home!
Finally, say hello to our hot-pink guardian bovine that previously graced the
Northland Fountain during the Kansas City CowParade exhibit. She's ready to
greet you when you walk through the front door.
You'll be impressed with the quiet atmosphere, helpful service and broad title
selection available at our quaint, privately-owned independent book and coffee
shop. We invite you to be surprised at what we offer.
Relax. Explore. Enjoy...River Reader.
Bruce Burstert Antiques now in our lower level
Bruce Burstert and Carl Wheat have transformed our lower level space into a
spectacular gallery of fine antiques, oriental rugs, collectable glass pieces,
toys and other treasures. Be sure to visit this amazing collection of antiques
when visiting our shop.
Book Groups
We now have several active book groups that meet at River Reader. If you’d like to participate, or just find out about upcoming titles, times, and group
leader contacts, please call the store at 660-259-4996 or stop by for more
information. Our book groups are always interested in new members.