Backwater Books is an independent bookstore in Ellicott City, MD. Owners Alli and Matt Krist, both former teachers, started the business in 2022. This store offers an extensive collection of books for both younger and older audiences. The store is located Ellicott City’s Times Building, former home of the Howard County Times newspaper.

The inside of Backwater Books has a comforting charm, with plenty of reading spaces for guests as well as an upstairs bar serving wine and beer. There’s also Chomsky, the bookstore dog that greets customers as they shop for books.

Every month, Backwater Books hosts events where selected authors come in to speak about their work. You can register for author talk events through the Backwater Books website.

The store is open Tuesday through Thursday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, and Sunday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The store is closed on Monday. If you’re looking for a new bookstore to browse and relax in, visit Backwater Books today!