Books to be Red

4.8
310 reviews
Books to be Red Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

About

Book StoreBooksGift Shop
Tucked away on the corner of Hwy 12 under the live oaks and shaded cedar trees, Books to be Red's quaint 1898 cottage on has become known for its delightful selection of books, handcrafted items, and unique gifts. As Ocracoke Island's only full-service, independent bookstore with a wonderful variety of new, regional books. We carry the latest titles in fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, cookbooks, and historical books. Just like a good book, our shop is a place where you can relax, slow down, and get lost in all of the treasures around you. Our bookstore also functions as a charming gift shop and features local Deepwater pottery, handcrafted jewelry, candles, and soaps. For the young and young at heart, we have an entire room filled with children’s books, toys, board games and fun activity kits.

Details

  • DeliveryAvailable
  • Requires appointmentNot available
  • Credit cardAvailable
  • DebitAvailable

Location

Books to be Red
34 School Rd, Ocracoke, NC
27960, United States

Hours

Reviews

4.8
310 reviews
5 stars
272
4 stars
23
3 stars
9
2 stars
4
1 star
2
  • FF
    Faith
    Oct 17, 2025
    5.0
    Good variety of books, lots of fun extras, great environment !
  • PW
    Pam White
    Oct 10, 2025
    5.0
    Love the verity of crafts in addition to the great selection of books.
  • AL
    Ava Lewis
    Sep 26, 2025
    5.0
    Wow, Books To Be Red is an island treasure! I love books and bookstores; this was a must see and I was not disappointed. The owner was very kind and gave me some recommendations on locally inspired fiction novels. I also picked up a "Blind Date with a Book" which is a gift-wrapped book with a few handwritten hints as to what it contains. I have yet to unwrap it but I am very excited to see what it is. This should be your first stop to pick up your beach read. In addition to the large selection of books for all ages and genres, you can find gifts, pottery, children's toys and more.
  • LH
    Laura Hickman
    Sep 23, 2025
    5.0
    Stopped in on the way to dinner. I love books. I love cozy bookstores, and this was definitely a cozy little bookstore. I would have loved to stay longer, but we were hungry after a long ferry ride and they were closed after dinner. The person behind the counter juggled the crowd well, even came out from behind the busy counter to show us exactly where the book we were looking for was located.
  • JW
    Jared Harding Wilson
    Sep 23, 2025
    5.0
    This is our second time going to Ocracoke Island, and this cute little bookstore is a mainstay for us every time! The owner is very personable, and gets in books that you might not find elsewhere! There’s something for everyone, and it’s really fun how she has surprising activities throughout her bookstore! I highly recommend!

Frequently Asked Questions About Books to be Red

Do you have any books about Blackbeard and Ocracoke Island history?

Yes.

Can you order books?

Yes, it takes 3 to 4 business days for them to arrive.