McIntyre’s Books

If you plan to come to this «bookstore» with your children be prepared for the owners to make you feel unwelcome. I have had this experience on more than one occasion while allowing my very well-​behaved children to look around in the children’s section of the store. The second either of my children made a peep we got nasty looks. I didn’t realize that you can’t make any noise in a bookstore, I thought that was the rule at a library. Here’s an idea, don’t have a kids section if kids are not welcome in your store.

Love this bookstore! I moved down to the Triangle from New York and was in search of a great independent bookstore. McIntyre’s is a gem. Their selection is so well-​curated that I usually go in for one book as end up finding a bunch of other amazing books, too. They also have some beautiful notebooks and stationary, as well as fun gift items (adult coloring books, pens, bottle openers, etc). The staff is super friendly and always willing to recommend, search for a book, or order something if they don’t have it. Also they have a bunch of great events going on all the time — check the chalkboards or their website.

Michelle J sure nailed it with her wonderful, informative review, so I won’t repeat everything she said. But I will say that we loved it here!
It’s so comfy, it was like being at home… if we HAD an expensive home with a giant library. sigh, guess I’ll just keep visiting.
TIP: Get on their email list! There is a LOT going on here all the time.
Besides a wonderful variety of books, old and new, some I haven’t seen in more mainstream bookstores (which is why I bought them), they have other types of gifts for all ages.

McIntyre’s Books is absolutely one of my favorite bookstores in the area. Located in Fearrington Village within Chatham County, this little bookstore is surprisingly well-​stocked with the most current releases, as well as literature classics. To top it off, they have monthly guest author meetings, with some of the most famous authors on their listing of events.
They have a unique children’s reading room, decorated with a «tree of knowledge» that has to be seen. Decorated each season, this tree is a must-​see even if you do not have children of your own. Also not to be missed is their fireplace study room. This particular room is as relaxing as you can imagine, complete with a hearth, side chairs to relax in, and a comfortable sofa where you can sit back, read your favorite novel, and decide which to purchase.
Toward the side/​back of the store they have the meeting room where all of the mystery, crime, etc. books are located, complete with a skeleton and knight in attendance to watch over you. They are hilariously curious, and definitely complete the quirky quality of this great bookstore. You can purchase knick knacks up by the check-​out station, and although they do have a second floor, it is most often closed to the public. I suspect it is available to larger reading groups that may want to use it or for staff only.
Parking is readily available to the side and front of the store in Fearrington Village’s private parking areas for guests and visitors. After you have purchased your books or attended an author event, you can stroll Fearrington Village to see the Belted Cows, Belted Goats, and Donkeys.

So cozy, I could stay for hours.
Immediately entering you’ll feel at ease, and want to read everything in sight. The first room is children’s, but they’ve also divided nonfiction, history, crime, and cooking into their own little rooms and nooks. Comfy chairs, a fireplace, and uncluttered but chock-​full surroundings compliment the already homey shoppe, and the staffs pick tables are gold mines. The criminal/​mystery room is also where they have guest writers and speakers, and they had a impressive list of previous events and those to come.
I think my favorite things were the little handwritten notecards sticking out of some of the books, mostly a plot summary but also going a little but further about the kind of read and what you could expect to take from it.
The main room housed some activity books, a few Fred items, and a small sale section, but mostly was a beautiful showcase of new releases and must reads. Super friendly staff, great layout, any time I’m in the area I’ll be stopping in, but they’re worth the drive from Charlotte too!

This is my new favorite new bookstore. Nothing will ever beat out the smell and experience of a really fantastic used bookstore, but I love what has been done with McIntyre’s. It is just small enough to feel relaxed and intimate, but the selection is absolutely phenomenal. There is no wasted space here, yet does not feel at all crowded or cramped. Many tables and shelves are denoted as «Staff Picks» with enticing notes about why each book is lauded.
Great big chairs await you in the adjacent mystery/​non-​fiction/​cooking sections. The staff was VERY helpful while not-obtrusive-(I am a quiet browser and like my space). They host regular weekly events and book signings. I will be driving the 13 miles from Cary for my book shopping. McIntyre’s is an experience.