Barrett Bookstore is the largest and oldest independent bookstore in Fairfield County. Founded by Elizabeth Barrett, the Bookstore opened its doors in Stamford in 1939. It later moved to Summer Street and was purchased by David and Carol Rose. In the 1970s, the store moved to High Ridge Road in Stamford where it remained until 1989. During the 1980s, the Roses purchased the Book Shelf in Goodwives Shopping Center in Darien and moved the Darien store to its Noroton Heights location, simultaneously closing the High Ridge Road location. In 1997, when current owner Sheila Daley and her late husband Thomas Daley read in The Darien Times that Barrett Bookstore was for sale, they jumped at the chance to purchase the store, fulfilling a lifelong dream for Sheila. The Daleys twice expanded the space in Noroton Heights and created a robust children’s department that thrives to this day. Most recently, Sheila and her staff have landed in downtown Darien where they plan to stay as a part of The Corbin District development. The 3,600 foot store carries literary fiction, non-fiction, classics, biographies and memoirs, history, poetry, essays, science-fiction, fantasy, mystery and thrillers, cooking, wellness, business, fine and performing arts, sports, nature science, gardening and picture/gift books. In addition, Barrett prides itself on its wide selection of books and games for children of all ages.  

Barrett Bookstore is committed to the local community. Every time you choose to shop local, you help to create jobs in-town, contribute to the local tax base, and help bring your favorite authors to town. We look forward to welcoming you to our store and hope you will visit us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for the latest updates on the store and general literary musings. 

Barrett Bookstore can be found at 6 Corbin Drive, right next to the Darien Post Office.

Barrett Bookstore

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