About Denver Book Society

Books have always had a strange power. They change how we see the world, and how we see each other.

The Denver Book Society began with a simple idea:

What if there was a place where that power was celebrated every day?

Our Story

Founded in 2025, DBS was created to be Denver’s “third space".
A home away from home and work where people could slow down, share ideas, and rediscover the joy of connection.

Our shelves are organized by theme, our café hums with quiet conversation, and our events bring the community together.

Our Values

Community

Books are best shared

Books are best when shared. At the Denver Book Society, we believe books bring people together: through conversation, connection, and a sense of belonging. We’re creating a space where community can thrive.

Accessibility

Everyone deserves a place to belong

Everyone deserves a place to belong. We believe that bookstores should be welcoming environments where anyone can walk in and feel at ease. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just starting, you have a place at DBS.

Curiosity

We read, learn, and grow together

We read together. Curiosity drives discovery, empathy, and understanding. It’s how we begin to answer the bigger questions facing our society. Every shelf at DBS is an invitation to explore something new.

Local Love

We celebrate Denver

We celebrate Denver's writers and thinkers. We’re Denver-based and Denver-proud. Whether it’s hosting local authors or community events, we are here to be a part of Denver.

Meet our Founder

Denverite Rich Garvin built a successful career operating a conference management company before shifting his focus to philanthropy. A passionate supporter of literary advocacy, he made a bid to acquire the iconic Tattered Cover bookstore out of bankruptcy in 2022. While ultimately outbid by Barnes & Noble, the experience catalyzed a new vision: Denver Book Society. Garvin serves on the board of directors for Aspen Words, an Aspen Institute initiative with a mission to encourage writers, inspire readers and connect people through the power of stories via year-round programming. A devoted bibliophile, he dedicates an hour each morning to reading books.

Contact Us

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