Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Premier Bookstore Experience in New Orleans
At Garden District Book Shop, we bring people together through a shared love of books and community. Founded in 1979 by Britton Trice, our store has hosted legendary authors such as Anne Rice, James Lee Burke, Chuck Palahniuk, and Clive Barker. Since 2021, Barkley Rafferty and Carroll Gelderman have dedicated themselves to preserving this unique space for locals and visitors. We expanded our offerings by introducing Bar Epilogue, a literary-inspired bar that complements our bookshop experience. Our curated selection includes new books across all genres, rare and signed editions, and collectible Jazz Fest posters. We also operate The Chicory House restaurant and host author events, book clubs, and community gatherings. Our commitment to fostering literary appreciation is reflected in our personalized service and partnerships with Bookshop.org and Libro.fm.With decades of combined experience in bookselling and hospitality, we prioritize customer engagement, cultural enrichment, and maintaining New Orleans' literary heritage. Our team of knowledgeable booksellers ensures every visitor finds their next great read while supporting independent publishing. Through physical and online platforms, we continue to build connections between readers, authors, and the vibrant stories that define our community.
Services
Book Sales
Bar Epilogue
Author Events
Catering Services
Poster Sales
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We've hosted legendary authors like Anne Rice and Chuck Palahniuk since 1979
- Our Bar Epilogue uniquely combines literature with craft cocktails
- We offer rare signed editions and collectible Jazz Fest posters
- Our staff provides personalized book recommendations for all readers
- We operate both physical and online platforms supporting independent publishing
Services
Book Sales
We offer a carefully curated selection of new books across all genres including literary fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, children's stories, and bestsellers. Our collection features rare and signed editions, out-of-print first editions, and other collectible titles. Our knowledgeable booksellers provide personalized recommendations to help customers discover their next great read.
Bar Epilogue
Our literary-inspired cocktail bar serves creative drinks and curated wines in a cozy, book-filled atmosphere. The menu features themed cocktails that celebrate literary classics while offering modern mixology. This unique space combines reading comfort with social gathering opportunities for book lovers and casual visitors alike.
Author Events
We host book signings, readings, and discussions with renowned authors like Walter Isaacson, Ann Patchett, and Octavia Spencer. These events create direct connections between readers and writers while showcasing both established and emerging literary voices in an intimate setting.
Catering Services
Our neighboring restaurant The Chicory House provides catering for book launches, private parties, and community events. We offer customized menus that complement literary themes while maintaining the quality and creativity of our New Orleans culinary heritage.
Poster Sales
We sell vintage New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival posters, including signed editions and rare collectibles. These art pieces represent decades of festival history and cultural significance, appealing to both music enthusiasts and art collectors seeking authentic NOLA memorabilia.
People
Britton Trice
Founder
Founded Garden District Book Shop in 1979, establishing it as New Orleans' premier literary destination. Hosted numerous legendary authors during his tenure, creating lasting cultural connections through literature.
Barkley Rafferty
Co-Owner
Co-owner since 2021, dedicated to preserving the shop's legacy while expanding offerings through Bar Epilogue. Brings extensive experience in maintaining literary traditions while adapting to modern bookselling needs.
Carroll Gelderman
Co-Owner
Co-owner committed to sustaining the shop's community role since 2021. Focuses on enhancing customer experience through innovative programming and maintaining the store's unique atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Questions
What are The Garden District Book Shop's operating hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM, Saturday-Sunday 9AM-7PM. Bar Epilogue operates Monday-Friday 3PM-8PM and Saturday-Sunday 12PM-7PM.
Do you host author events?
Yes, we regularly host book signings, readings, and discussions with renowned authors like Anne Rice and Octavia Spencer in our historic space.
Can I purchase books online?
Yes, we partner with Bookshop.org for online purchases. However, online inventory doesn't reflect in-store availability, so we recommend calling for specific titles.
What special collections do you offer?
We feature rare and signed book editions, out-of-print first editions, and collectible vintage Jazz Fest posters, including some signed by notable artists.
Is there a bar inside the bookshop?
Yes, Bar Epilogue offers literary-inspired cocktails and curated wines in a cozy, book-filled atmosphere perfect for reading or socializing.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, through our neighboring restaurant The Chicory House, we provide catering for book events, private parties, and community gatherings.