University Book Store
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Bookstore, Retail |
| Founded | 1900 |
| Headquarters | Seattle , United States |
Area served | Washington (state) |
| Products | Books, Textbooks, Student & Art Supplies, Gifts |
University Book Store is a privately held, independent bookstore located in Seattle's University District, Washington, USA. Established in 1900 with the purpose of serving the University of Washington, it holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest independent bookstore within the state of Washington.
In 2014, this bookstore led all college bookstores nationwide in book and supply sales, and by 2020, it was recognized as the third largest university bookstore across the country.
Beyond its flagship store, University Book Store maintains multiple outlets on the University of Washington campus as well as other sites throughout western Washington. A branch in Bellevue ceased operations in 2017.
As of July 2025, management of the General Books Department transitioned to Barnes & Noble, while University Book Store continues to own and operate its Textbooks, Student & Art Supplies, Husky Department, and Gifts divisions.
History
Originally launched inside the University of Washington's Denny Hall in 1900, University Book Store relocated several times before establishing its current site on University Way in 1924.
The store was incorporated in 1932 and has been overseen by a Board of Trustees since 1964. It is among a select group of college bookstores structured as independent tax-paying corporations with direct student representation on its board.
On May 20, 2025, an announcement confirmed that University Book Store would independently manage all departments except for trade books, which would be operated by Barnes & Noble.