DogStar Books: A Literary Treasure, Read More!

Nestled in the vibrant West End of Lancaster, DogStar Books isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a beloved community hub for book lovers, art enthusiasts, and those who value the magic of in-person browsing. Since opening its doors in 2006, DogStar Books has welcomed readers into a world of carefully curated books, local artistry, and a nostalgic love for the printed page.

DogStar Books began its journey as an internet-only business in 2001, but the dream of a physical bookstore had its roots decades earlier. Owner Brian Frailey’s passion for books started back in high school, and it only grew stronger during his years overseas, where he taught English to political refugees from Burma. The idea of creating a brick-and-mortar space where people could discover new worlds through literature kept calling him home. That vision finally materialized in 2006, and DogStar Books has been a cherished part of Lancaster’s community ever since.

A Bookstore that Breathes Life Into the Community

DogStar Books offers something far beyond rows of bookshelves. It’s a space that embraces the unique appeal of city living—one where you can walk or bike over, browse their extensive collection, and get lost in the pages of your next great read. Their collection spans everything from scholarly works and classic literature to vintage paperbacks, local interest books, quality children’s stories, and even music on vinyl and CDs. They give careful consideration to estates, collections, and specialist libraries, ensuring the inventory is always diverse and interesting. Whether you’re searching for a rare find, a classic mystery novel, or books on unusual subjects, there’s a good chance DogStar has something that will capture your imagination.

Brian’s desire to open a physical location was rooted in his love for genuine, honest book dealing. In an era where the number of reliable online booksellers is shrinking, DogStar Books aims to be a bastion of authenticity—where books are accurately described, fairly priced, and treated with the respect they deserve.

Art at the Heart of DogStar Books

Art is another central component of the DogStar Books experience. Ever since its opening, the store has showcased works by numerous local artists, transforming the space into a gallery as much as a bookstore. Each First Friday, DogStar invites visitors to experience new art exhibits, bringing the creative pulse of Lancaster right into the store. The walls have been adorned by pieces from artists such as Caster Kennard, Libby Kleine Modern, Rachel Blaser, and many others, making each visit to DogStar Books a visually and culturally enriching experience.

Art lovers are always encouraged to “drink it in” any time they visit, even outside of First Fridays. This celebration of art and culture adds to the sense of DogStar Books as a place where the community can gather, share, and grow—whether through the stories bound in their books or the stories painted on their walls.

Buying, Selling, and the Joy of Discovery

DogStar Books is not just about selling books—they also actively buy books, giving special consideration to estates, collections, and unique pieces. They value scholarly books, literature, history, local interest books, and quality children’s literature. For those with books to sell, DogStar offers fair prices, and for smaller collections, they even offer trade value that can be used toward purchases in the store. They’re especially interested in classic mysteries, true crime, vintage paperbacks, pulps, and unusual advertising ephemera. However, don’t expect them to buy everything; books that are in poor condition, overly common, or simply don’t fit their collection standards are politely declined.

If you have books gathering dust and are curious whether they might be treasures worth selling, DogStar Books might just be the perfect place to start. Their honest approach to buying and selling, combined with a deep respect for the literary world, has earned them a loyal customer base that stretches beyond Lancaster.

Visit DogStar Books

Whether you’re a local resident, a student from Franklin & Marshall College, or visiting Lancaster for the weekend, DogStar Books is a must-visit. Located within walking distance of the Convention Center and diagonally across from Mandros Imported Foods, it’s easy to pop by and explore the wonders inside. The friendly atmosphere, the scent of old and new books mingling in the air, and the captivating art displays make it more than just a shopping trip—it’s an experience.

And if you’re not in Lancaster but still want a taste of what DogStar has to offer, their online store brings the magic right to your fingertips. Browse through hundreds of categories and let your next literary adventure begin, no matter where you are in the world.

A Gathering Place for Book Lovers and Art Enthusiasts

DogStar Books is more than just a bookstore. It’s the realization of a lifelong dream, a space dedicated to community, culture, and the love of books. By choosing to visit DogStar Books, you’re not just buying a book—you’re supporting a vision of what local businesses can be: welcoming, inspiring, and deeply rooted in the love of learning and art. Whether you’re attending a First Friday art event or spending an afternoon searching for a hidden literary gem, DogStar Books is a place where stories come alive—on pages, on walls, and in the hearts of those who visit.