Go inside Green Apple Books, a legacy business and San Francisco favorite since 1967

Local, independent bookstores have never been more important. With fair access to literature under political attack, bookstores are a bulwark against censorship and an asset to the communities they serve. 

Each week we profile an independent bookstore, discovering what makes each one special and getting their expert book recommendations.

This week we have Pete Mulvihill, owner of Green Apple Books in San Francisco!

What’s your store’s story?

Green Apple Books is a San Francisco Legacy business, selling new and used books in all subject areas to curious readers since 1967. It's a labyrinthine store with multiple stories, rooms, nooks and alcoves. It features a wide but carefully curated selection of books, plus LPs, gifts, magazines and more.

Check out: USA TODAY's Independent Bookstores Map

What makes your independent bookstore unique?

Customers love our hand-written shelf talkers. They love getting lost in the sprawling but intimate space. They love discovering their next favorite book and they love the staff's enthusiasm.

What's your favorite section in your store?

The Staff Favorites display at any bookstore really defines it, and ours is no exception. With a staff of 28 curious readers, there's always some great book to be discovered there.

What books do you love to recommend to customers and why?

I love "The Seas" by Samantha Hunt. It's an ethereal novel that leaves you wanting to discuss it with a friend. I also love "Breath" by James Nestor. It's fascinating popular science all about breathing. I love everything George Saunders writes. His short stories are funny, smart, kind, and a little weird.

What book do you think deserves more attention and why?

Willy Vlautin has written a half dozen or so fine novels, and no one seems to have heard of him. They're often about down-on-their luck people with big hearts, and they always provide a keen observer's window into human souls. I'm excited for his new "The Horse," which comes out July 30.

Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?

So many reasons! They keep our city unique and maintain much-needed diversity in the bookselling ecosystem. Plus they keep more money in the local economy and our union jobs provide great benefits and opportunities for local readers.

What are some of your store's events, programs, or partnerships coming up this quarter that you would like to share?

We host several events a week at our sister store, Green Apple Books on the Park. Upcoming highlights include Muni is my Ride (art about our public transit system); novelist Kaveh Akbar with Tommy Orange; and former Green Appler Manjula Martin (author of a lovely book that's part memoir, part history called "The Last Fire Season") with local outdoorsman Obi Kaufmann.