The fact that E. Shaver Bookseller (326 Bull St., 912/234-7257, Mon.–Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m.) is one of the few locally owned independent bookstores left in town should not diminish the fact that it is also one of the best bookstores in town. Esther Shaver and her friendly, well-read staff can help you around the rambling old interior of their ground-level store and its generous stock of regionally themed books. Don’t miss the rare map room, with some gems from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Specializing in “gently used” books in good condition, The Book Lady (6 E. Liberty St., 912/233-3628, Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) on Wright Square features rare first editions. Enjoy a gourmet coffee while you browse the stacks.

The beautiful Monterey Square location and a mention in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil combine to make V&J Duncan (12 E. Taylor St., 912/232-0338, www.vjduncan.com, Mon.–Sat. 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.) a Savannah “must-shop.” Owner John Duncan and his wife Virginia (“Ginger” to friends) have collected an impressive array of prints, books, and maps over the past quarter-century, and are themselves a treasure trove of information.