Backwater Books is a wonderful place! There's books, there's beer, there's nice people, occasionally Chomsky the bookstore dog appears, what more could you possibly want? I also like that there's a good mix of new releases and backlist books, including some true gems. The history section is especially well curated, and it's always a pleasure to browse. I can also speak for the sci-fi fantasy shelf, and the beer, and the people. Just go already, you won't regret it.

- Marisa Montany Verified

This is the best bookstore, run by wonderful, kind, and welcoming people. The book selection is always impeccable and the Bibliopub is an excellent community hangout spot serving up lovely conversation and a really nice beer and wine selection. When I moved to Ellicott City, Backwater Books as a place and a collection of people immediately made me feel at home.

- Dylan Kee Verified

Absolutely love this place! Great book selection, cozy corners all over to enjoy some great reading and conversation and the bar always has a great selection of beer and wine! Extra points that the owners are always super friendly! This is a local gem!

- aikta suri Verified

Best bookstore ever! The pub on the 2nd floor is awesome, there are several reading nooks to sit and read or study, they have an outdoor patio to relax on, and they have the most amazing art collection. I’ve purchased a few paintings and will definitely buy some more. The owners are what make this place so special. They not only live in historic Ellicott City, but are truly dedicated to the community and bringing people together. If you’re looking for a grass roots bookstore, this is the place!

- Tiffany Averill Verified

Them books are so book, man. You'll be like, wow, that book are very books! Owners are great, super friendly and down to earth! My favorite bookstore and an awesome/romantic bar upstairs for a date!

- michael mcgraw Verified

Nicholle Lindsey left a 5 star review!

- Nicholle Lindsey Verified

Kevin Tyler left a 5 star review!

- Kevin Tyler Verified

Katie O’Neill left a 5 star review!

- Katie O’Neill Verified

Ray Newby left a 5 star review!

- Ray Newby Verified

Charming, high-vibe bookstore offering live music and events. Bibliopub serving quality brews and classic pour over coffee.

- Lindsey Cauble Verified

Charming, high-vibe bookstore offering live music and events. Bibliopub serving quality brews and classic pour over coffee.

- Lindsey Marie Verified

Jackie Crimefighter left a 5 star review!

- Jackie Crimefighter Verified

Very cute place. Lots of books and places to sit, and a nice little bar upstairs. Definitely the second best book store on main street (after gramps). Would still highly recommend.

- Isaac Sherwood Verified

Very nice book store!

- Beth Snouffer Verified

One of the friendliest and most helpful bookshops around! The fact that is has a bar and is in a super fun area is a major bonus. Cheers!

- Sean MacDonald Verified

This place is AMAZING. I was floored with the first floor then realized there was an entire second floor and was in Heaven. The large selection, friendly employees, quaint areas to read, coffee bar… shall I go on?! This place is awesome and definitely on my visit list every time I am in MD.

- Ariel ross Verified

Kevin B left a 5 star review!

- Kevin B Verified

Best bookstore ever.

- TIM WILDE Verified

Response from Backwater Books & Bibliopub Best customer ever! Read More

Great store with a good selection and the coffee shop/bar is such a cool idea and an excellent addition to Ellicott City!

- Nick H Verified

Great addition to the community.

- Kim Swartz Verified