City Lights Bookstore, Independent bookstore and publishing house in North Beach, San Francisco, United States
City Lights is an independent bookstore and publishing house in North Beach with three floors organized around world literature, arts, and social topics. The space contains new releases alongside backlist titles, with sections dedicated to poetry and works on politics and history.
The bookstore opened in 1953, taking its name from a Charlie Chaplin film, as a space for experimental and political literature. A defining moment arrived in 1957 when the owners successfully defended their right to publish a controversial poetry collection.
The store reflects the spirit of the Beat movement and continues to draw readers interested in art and social commentary. Its carefully chosen inventory shows a commitment to works that encourage people to think critically about the world.
The store stays open until midnight every day, making it accessible for evening visits. Sections are clearly marked by subject, helping you find areas of interest without difficulty.
The store runs its own publishing line called the Pocket Poets Series, which produces affordable poetry collections that remain in print and widely available. This combination of retail bookstore with active publishing is an unusual arrangement that sets it apart from typical shops.
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