Small Business Spotlight: Moravian Book Shop
This month's Small Business Spotlight shines on the Moravian Book Shop in Bethlehem, a Main Street landmark that has been serving readers since 1745. Recognized as the oldest bookstore in America and the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world, it is a piece of living history in the heart of the Lehigh Valley, and it remains a working bookstore and gift shop today.
What They Offer
The Moravian Book Shop carries a broad selection of books for readers of all ages, along with gifts, home decor, toys, gourmet foods, and other specialty items. It also serves as the official student bookstore for Moravian University, stocking the course materials students need each semester. Whether you are hunting for a new novel, a gift for a friend, or something special for your own home, the shop's shelves and displays have plenty to browse.
How Long They Have Been Around
The Moravian Book Shop was founded in 1745 by the Moravian Church, which appointed Samuel Powell to operate a bookstore at the Crown Inn. That makes it the oldest bookstore in America and the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world, a record it has held for more than 280 years. In 2018, the Moravian Church Northern Province transferred ownership to Moravian College, now Moravian University, to keep the shop within the Moravian family, and it has served as the university's student bookstore since June 2018.
What Makes Them Special
Few businesses anywhere can claim a history like this one. The Moravian Book Shop sits on Main Street in the Historic Moravian Bethlehem district, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2024 as part of the transnational Moravian Church Settlements site. Walking through the shop is like stepping into the past, yet the shelves are stocked with today's bestsellers, gifts, and local finds. It is a place where history and everyday shopping meet, and that combination is hard to find anywhere else.
How to Visit or Contact Them
The Moravian Book Shop is located at 428 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018, and can be reached at (610) 866-5481, with a toll-free line at 1-888-661-2888. The shop is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
For the full selection, upcoming events, and online ordering, visit the official website at moravian.edu/bookshop. Hours and offerings can change with the season, so it is always a good idea to confirm before you visit.
Moravian Book Shop at a Glance
- Address: 428 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
- Phone: (610) 866-5481 · Toll-free 1-888-661-2888
- Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00 AM-5:00 PM · Sun 11:00 AM-5:00 PM
- Website: moravian.edu/bookshop
Supporting Local, Season After Season
Small businesses like the Moravian Book Shop are the heart of the Lehigh Valley community. When you shop local, you support neighbors, local families, and the people who make this region special. And if you are ever thinking about buying or selling a home in the Lehigh Valley, Tim Tepes is a local business owner too, and he would be honored to help.
With more than 36 years of experience and 700+ closed transactions, Tim Tepes is a trusted expert in Lehigh Valley real estate. He is the founder of Tim Tepes Real Estate LLC with Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate Cassidon Realty, serving Northampton, Lehigh, and Carbon Counties.
Supporting Local Businesses Across the Lehigh Valley
Tim Tepes has helped hundreds of families buy and sell across the Lehigh Valley, including Allentown, Bethlehem, and the surrounding communities. Reach out for honest, experienced guidance.