Greenwood Books
Independent used and rare bookstore operating since 1998, offering fiction and non-fiction including titles in philosophy, history, theology, and gardening. Open Tuesday through Saturday.
Overview
Greenwood Books is an independent used and rare bookstore located at 123 East Avenue in Rochester, NY's East End district. Founded in 1998 by Franlee Frank, the shop has served the Rochester community for over two decades from its storefront along the East Avenue corridor. Frank draws on extensive experience in the book trade to maintain a carefully curated inventory spanning multiple genres and languages.
What They Offer
Greenwood Books stocks used and rare titles in both fiction and non-fiction. The non-fiction collection covers a range of subject areas, with particular depth in philosophy, history, theology, Latin America, and gardening. Beyond English-language titles, the shop carries books in Spanish, French, German, and other languages.
In addition to browsing the in-store inventory, customers can take advantage of several services:
- Special orders for recently published and in-print titles
- Book club orders with a 20% discount when a minimum of five copies is purchased
- Personalized reading recommendations based on individual interests
- Authorized resale of official U.S. federal government publications
Known For
Greenwood Books has built a long-standing presence as one of Rochester's independent bookshops, with a focus on thoughtfully selected used titles rather than high-volume retail. The store's multilingual inventory and specialized non-fiction sections — particularly in philosophy, theology, and Latin American subjects — set it apart from larger booksellers in the area. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with visits available by appointment or chance outside regular hours.
Location & Neighborhood
The bookstore sits on East Avenue in Rochester's East End, a walkable neighborhood anchored by cultural institutions and independent shops. It is located within a short distance of The Little Theatre, Rochester's longstanding independent cinema, and the broader East Avenue corridor that stretches toward the George Eastman Museum. The East End is characterized by a mix of historic architecture, boutiques, and dining establishments, making Greenwood Books a natural stop for visitors exploring the district on foot.
Sources used in compiling this entry
eastavenuerochesterneighborhood.org·greenwoodbookstore.com·newpages.com
Last updated May 14, 2026