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Open Daily: 10am – 10pm

Welcome to City Lights

A literary meetingplace since 1953, City Lights is a landmark bookstore and publishing house, known for our commitment to innovative writing and progressive ideals.

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

Celebrate with these titles from City Lights Publishers.

Get City Lights Gear

Our classic black t-shirt and black tote bag are the perennial favorites, but don’t overlook our onesies, journals and more.

Readings and Events

Click here to learn more about our virtual calendar. We host weekly events with authors from across the publishing world.

Our Story

City Lights Bookstore was founded by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti in 1953, and became an instant gathering place for readers, writers, artists, and activists. In 1955, Ferlinghetti launched City Lights Publishers with the now-famous Pocket Poets Series. Find out how it all began.

Learn more