Tucked away on the corner of Hwy 12 under the live oaks and shaded cedar trees, Books to be Red's quaint 1898 cottage on has become known for its delightful selection of books, handcrafted items, and unique gifts. As Ocracoke Island's only full-service, independent bookstore with a wonderful variety of new, regional books. We carry the latest titles in fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, cookbooks, and historical books. Just like a good book, our shop is a place where you can relax, slow down, and get lost in all of the treasures around you. Our bookstore also functions as a charming gift shop and features local Deepwater pottery, handcrafted jewelry, candles, and soaps. For the young and young at heart, we have an entire room filled with children’s books, toys, board games and fun activity kits.
Quaint little book shop with a variety of classic, unique, and new release books. The owner of the shop is very sweet and easy to talk to. The shop also sells handmade mugs, bags, games, art supplies, children's items, as well as local items. I will definitely be returning next time I visit the island. It smells of soap, spice, and paper, and transports you to a simpler time. I also love that its an old house! One unique item that I've never seen before is the blind date books which are books wrapped in paper with clues on the front as to what the book might be. 🙂
MB
Merideth Bentley
5 days ago
5.0
Lovely, lovely bookstore with a proprietor who can give good recommendations and talk literature!
Good selection of books about Ocracoke and the Outer Banks, as well as fiction by local authors or set in the Outer Banks. The children’s book section was extensive. There is a wide variety of fiction and history books, plus some really cute small gifts like bookmarks, stickers, kitchen towels, etc.
This place is worth a visit and a chat with the lovely owner!
MH
Molly Hukle
Aug 24, 2026
5.0
Very good selection of books across many genres. Nice gift selection as well. Staff was very nice.
DS
Denise Schlatterer
Aug 10, 2026
5.0
Love this place. I go there nearly every time I visit Ocracoke Island. If you are at all in two books, you should visit this place!
MW
Matthew Walk
Jul 27, 2026
1.0
Our niece, who is almost 12 years old told a fib to the owner saying she was 13 years old so she could buy a 13-18 year old book for her 14 year old sister, unbeknownst to us. When we found out, we went to the register apologized for the fib and asked for a refund.
The owner, older woman, was verbally abusive to the group, saying “that little girl lied to me, she needs to apologize” loudly in front of other customers. She scared our niece so badly, she was in tears and needed to be escorted from the store in the arms of her aunt, hiding her face in her aunt’s shirt as the owner berated her loudly saying she wasn’t ever allowed back in the store.
Our niece should not have lied about her age. Understood. How an adult treats that situation can help a child learn. That was a very sad, poor example of teaching.
I wouldn’t recommend supporting a business who treats young ones like that. Shame on her. Wish I was there to help defend them.
Do you have any books about Blackbeard and Ocracoke Island history?
Yes.
Can you order books?
Yes, it takes 3 to 4 business days for them to arrive.
What kinds of books can I find at Books to be Red?
Books to be Red offers a wide variety of new books including fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, cookbooks, and historical books, especially featuring regional topics.
Does Books to be Red carry items other than books?
Yes, besides books, the store offers handcrafted items, unique gifts, local Deepwater pottery, jewelry, candles, and soaps.
Can I order books at Books to be Red?
Yes, you can order books and it typically takes 3 to 4 business days for them to arrive.
Is the staff at Books to be Red fully vaccinated for COVID-19?
Yes, all staff at Books to be Red are fully vaccinated.
What are the operating hours of Books to be Red?
Books to be Red is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
What payment methods are accepted at Books to be Red?
They accept American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, PayPal, cash, checks, and various mobile payment options including Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.
Is Books to be Red accessible for wheelchair users?
No, currently Books to be Red does not have wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, or restrooms.
What nearby dining options can I visit before or after shopping at Books to be Red?
Nearby dining options include Ocracoke Bar & Grille, Ocracoke Oyster Company, Thai Moon, and Sorellas Pizza & Pasta, all offering a variety of cuisines from seafood to Italian and Asian food.
Are there any nearby coffee shops or cafes near Books to be Red?
Yes, The Magic Bean coffee shop and Moonraker Tea Shop are nearby and great spots to enjoy a coffee or tea during your visit.
What local attractions can I explore near Books to be Red during my visit?
You can visit the Ocracoke Ghost and History Walk for a historical experience or explore local arts and crafts at The Village Craftsmen and Village Craftsmen galleries nearby.
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