I had an amazing afternoon in the Moravian Book Shop! Carol , Marcy, and Sue are exceptionally knowledgeable of local history,warm and friendly!! The store has a wonderful energy with so many lovely things to look at and buy. I wish I had purchased more Christmas gifts. A must see for anyone visiting Bethlehem!

Having visited The Moravian Book Shop for 40 years I was concerned about its being acquired by Moravian University. Obviously most things have changed, except the name. Volumes of hyperwoke drivel juxtaposed with kitsch Christmas ornaments was... odd. But certainly buying one of the oldest bookstores in America is very nice gesture to prevent the death of such a longstanding and historic book shop. They had a large selection of high quality Christmas ornaments and stuff, art supplies, college apparel. The staff was courteous and attentive.

We were disappointed. Online it talks about being the oldest bookstore and may be haunted to boot. What we walked into was an updated bookstore that looked new and no old books.

Place has been there 250 plus years, how amazing is that? Purchased 2 nice books for my two, 20 something year old children. Staff is helpful, meter parking. Clean and well lit

We only visited the bookshop/gift shop, not the restaurant side. Book shop was lovely, not a huge selection, but definitely a good selection of current titles, something for everyone. Helpful staff, very neat - also had a good selection of local interest/history books. A whole section of Moravian College gear, and some kids gifts and Christmas ornaments as well (the ornaments I thought were a little overpriced.) Overall a lovely shop!

Had to get a Elders wand and a few things from here.

Great book store and gift shop. Right in the heart of Bethlehem

Interesting ghost tour around historic Bethlehem PA!

We always stop here when in town, they have a good selection of books, many kids books.

I think it’s great, they have a lot of things besides books, but books are great and some are discounted. Had some addition to my library, very nice.

Used to be so much better. Still good but I miss the old, much larger and diverse shop.

I have been coming here for the past 16 years and never have I had a bad experience! Love buying books from my local independent book store 🥰🥰🥰

Good place for books but I wish they would of kept it the way it was

Book shop is still a great place for gifts and books. However, I miss the cafe.

Not what it used to be. More of a Moravian college clothing store. The books section was decent but not as big as before.

Miss the old bookstore it was a gem to this historic city it can never be replaced. So disappointed. What they have now is a joke.

Great addition to the Lost Tavern Family! Love how they decorated and changed the space. Amazing ambiance and open space and with Daves Deli how could it be better? Lost Tavern does it again

I have been here twice before over the last three yrs. This was first time I had been in since the merge. I was very sad to see the original flooring had been covered. Construction was going on outside but was able to share in the history behind the book store with my boys and even able to block out the construction from the angle i took their photo. As always we walked put with books!

Nice place, but it has become pricey.

The remodel is beautiful!

Has books and collectables of local interest re: Bethlehem, Moravians, and the college in addition to standard selection of fiction and nonfiction. Nice selection of Christmas items.

Great selection of books, gift items, Christmas ornaments, along with sweat shirts and Moravian wear.

Good selection, clean store mostly friendly staff

Really cute bookstore with a decent collection. Very nice to visit during the holidays and has a very rich history attached to it. Staff was very friendly as well.

Love this place! A must-stop during a walk down Main St. Bethlehem.

The oldest bookstore in the USALots of local knickknacks and crafts....and a lot of local history. PS...get some homemade truffles.

Great place for unique gifts and local interest books

They were very helpful and searched for what I wanted in the stock room. Beautiful Moravian stars.

Extremely helpful staff from the moment I opened the door. Greeted by an adorable Yorkie who was playful and well trained. Delightful selection of quaint tree ornaments for a small gift exchange. Would like to see their offerings during other seasons, but a beautiful stop in Christmas City during the holidays.

Always nice to visit, my mom and stepdad worked here for many years. Lots of great memories!

So disappointing since they changed owners. Now its no longer charming and unique. Horrible music and the food is awful. Everything is overpriced.

Fabulous book store with a Barnes and Nobles vibe. - Alexandria Slack

Love shopping from a small bookstore. Friendly staff and good selection of books.

Lots of Moravian College logo wear to choose from. The book section is still the best Ive ever seen.

Wonderful book shop with so much to explore and see...!

Quaint, with a wondrous and varied selection of books for all tastes! Kind customer service is, of course, included. Definitely recommend!

Great staff really good pepole

Moravian book shop I just love going in there you never know what youre gonna find theres always Christmas in their barren time with the year.I could spend days looking through the books.Its always organized and well maintained.Even know theres a Lot of things to look at in items in the store it is Real clean.Then please are always friendly and Helpful.

Awesome bookstore and restaurant.

Music was a bit loud. They downsized a bit since the last time I was there. No more sweets bar inside the store, and half of the store is dedicated to the local University. Friendly staff.

If they dont have the book youre looking for, they can get it. They have books for all ages.

Wow how utterly disappointing!!! The book shop has apparently changed hands and a true fixture of downtown Bethlehem was decimated in the process. Will never go back. Too too heartbreaking.Visiting from Colorado. Brought family to see it. We were in the store less than 10 minutes. You might as well go to Barnes & Noble.

This store has epic history as Americas oldest bookstore. Besides the history it is a neat little bookstore. They had a book signing going on and it appeared that they did that regularly.My only issue was no public restrooms. In most states they couldnt get by without this, but Pennsylvania must have lax laws on this.

The Moravian Bookshop really has a different feel now that it has new ownership. It used to be a local treasure but it is starting to feel more corporate. It doesnt have the same local feel and the guest amenities seems to have suffered as well as there isnt even a public bathroom anymore it serves its purpose selling books but it offers little more than that.

A variety of items from books to Christmas ornaments!

Eclectic and iconic are the two words that best describe this store.

While Barnes & Nobel recently bought The Moravian Bookshop they at least tried to keep the original aesthetic of the building. Theres still the quaint gift shift and wide selection of books but they converted a large part of it into Moravian Colleges textbook store and giftshop. That in along with the addition of a bar and sit down restaurant kinda ruined what made The Moravian Book Shop Special. But its always nice to have a wide selection of new books right there on main street.

The perfect blend of bookstore and home

I gave 1 star because I was truly disappointed there is NOTHING except a slanting floor beneath you between 2 of the buildings to even indicate this is from 1700s. There are so many shops on the same street that are true to the period. This bookstore was the reason for along weekend trip to the area as I want to tour as many historical books stores in the USA as possible. Im starting with this one and it was truly disappointing. I had the feeling I was in a Barnes and Noble. Someone else posted comments with a similar description. There are so many things they could have done to make this stay with the time period. Truly sad I wasnt able to see this building before the college purchased it as I have a feeling it would have been more to my expectations. I did read the reviews before deciding to go and thought Id see for myself. But, everyone who wrote comments about the lack of historical feel or visibility isnt exaggerating. In my opinion, its an injustice to the history of the building and business and the town in general.

Recently renovated. I was expecting an old historic book store but it is very modern inside. Great selection of books but instead of a bookstore its more like a hallmark meets a gift shop. They do have author signings which was a nice touch.

Has Christmas ornaments and toppers and much more which is lovely!

This once was a very special bookshop. Whoever bought it totally removed its charm and character. They stripped it and replaced it with junk. I walked in and instantly wanted to walk out. Im so sad.

Friendly service and nice selection of books and gifts.

This place has not lost any charm since its acquisition by Barnes and Noble College. More seating in a quiet historic setting with hints of a modern bookstore. A concise Christmas ornament section still exists with the addition of a Bethlehem memorabilia/wearable section.

If youve been to the store a year ago or even 10 plus years ago and walked into it now you wouldnt recognize it at all. The Moravian college has taken over control of the store and it now looks like a college merchandise store. Although you can get all the lovely things that they used to have online it just isnt the same. My heart breaks for the owners of the store. At least I still have my memories of how wonderful it was walking in there and feeling like I just stepped into Christmas Moravian style.

It was a pleasure browsing and shopping here. Beautiful store. Nice staff.

Outstanding staff.

So friendly & such fun to browse!

Its a cool little tourist attraction. There is a bookstore, a shop that sells all things Moravian/Bethlehem, a Christmas shop, and a coffee/gelato shop...and a bar. Im not sure if these are all the same store, but they all connect and there is something for everyone.

The new bookstore is an eye sore on the old world charm of Main St. I’m surprised they were allowed to change the front facade. It does not match the historic beauty of the Bethlehem. The new bookstore is nothing like the original. It is sterile and over filled with Moravian college apparel. I used to love that I could find a unique gift there. You could always find a gift that was unique to Bethlehem. Not anymore. I am appalled and disappointed with the decisions that have been made. If the people running the bookstore have any sense they will return it back to its original charm and splendor. Boycott the bookstore.

We love this place. Good book selection and local items. If you are looking for Moravian College gear they have a good amount of hats, shirts etc. Now has Lost Tavern brewing and Daves Deli there too.

Its a Barnes and Nobles Moravian college bookstore, with a small amount of old world charm. Definitely not worthy of Americas Oldest Bookstore title anymore.The Moravian Bookstore is missing why the tourists stroll along Main Street in Bethlehem for souvenirs and unique gifts.

I was highly skeptical of the ownership/management shift away from the church, but I was encouraged when I visited the shop. The layout is improved and there is more local merchandise. Really enjoying the fact that they didnt alter the book shop part of the property. This store is an integral part of the downtown Bethlehem scene, and Im glad to see it in good hands.

Some good titles and TONS of Christmas items even outside of the season. Youre in Bethlehem after all and everyday should feel like Christmas. Worth a quick stop-by if youre in town visiting the historic sites.

This is a neat shop. Keep in mind its a college bookstore so the first room (its a series of connected storefronts) is all sweatshirts, t-shirts, etc. Then theres the year-round Christmas/giftshop piece (Bethlehem is the Christmas City I am told), then you get to the bookstore. Theres a big kids section that seems very well curated and then the last room is classic bookstore. The space is attractive, I found some interesting titles, the staff was helpful but not overbearing. Its not a big bookstore, but its thoughtfully put together and if you love bookstores like I do youre sure to find a treasure or two.

This was the first time I have been in since all of the renovations. It is a beautiful store with both Bethlehem and Moravian College gear. It was a pleasant surprise. A Deli and tavern are due to open May or June of 2019. A must stop if you are in Bethlehem.

Nice little bookstore. We just ignored the Moravian College side.

Definitely not the same feel as the Moravian Book Store that was there for years, but in all fairness its still under construction. I miss the beautiful candies and old-fashioned candy section and the cafe. Such an iconic place thats not there anymore.

Quaint shop...

Nice place to relax and get some reading or work done. The place also has a deli and Tap room (lost tavern) inside if you need a quick bite or some Craft brew.

Best bookstore Ive ever been in. Historical. Lots of cool food options, chocolates, coffee, honey mead. Im sad to see it go. Its comfortable and peaceful, with nooks and crannies.

This is NOT the bookshop of old. If youd like to purchase Moravian college items, you will find those. The bookstore is run by Barnes and Noble. So, no Moravian stars or room filled with gifts, no snack shop. That said, they have a fine selection of books.

I am heartbroken to see what has happened to this historic book shop. We used to visit often, especially during the holidays to see the beautiful displays of Christmas ornaments for sale. We heard the shop had to be sold due to debt, but now it a just a glorified college store for Moravian. The charm and nostalgia has been essentially erased. Im hoping this is just a transition status and they get things settled. Really hoping!

What a disappointment. There are better bookstores in shopping malls. Hard to explore books with rock and roll music being piped in. No ambiance and no sense of history.

Local bookstore with charm. Great place to find books on local history and gift items for all ages! Perfect place for that last minute gift - whether it be for the book lover in your life, a special baby shower gift, or the kids birthday party that slipped your mind! Remember to support your local businesses!!!

Its a sad place...none of the charm or allure of the old book store! I feel like the college/Barnes and Noble has no idea how to marry college bookstore with the one-of-a-kind book store and gift shop it once was! And they missed the boat by not finishing up the stock and decor in time for holiday visitors! I fear its a Titanic on Main...a grand Dame about it sink!

Always a fun, interesting shopping experience, not just books anymore! I always enjoy visiting the Bethlehem downtown area.

Such a fun and unique store. Has a nice variety of books but so much more has really nice gift items from decor to clothes to gourmet food and year round Christmas items like ornaments and collectibles. They also have a sit down cafe and chocolate / candy counter. Friendly staff and great atmosphere great to see and shop.

Moravian Bookstore was a wonderful gem in Bethlehem. After Christkindl Markt moved to the Stacks, we still came into Bethlehem for the Moravian Bookstore. So disappointed. It has turned into a college store. We will not visit again. Great loss for the town.

Cool place. The bar they opened inside is great. Their sours are the best

This is GORGEOUS olds world, large selections. Carries college supplies, Christmas decor AND books & college clothes. Please go VISIT.youll be mesmerized as I was !

This is basically a historic gift shop. They offer books, keepsakes, and vintage ornaments. They also have a small bar where you can sample local mead and snacks. Its a nice place to linger for a while.

I am happy to patronize an independent bookstore. They dont carry a huge array of titles, but they can order whatever you want. They always have many good titles available in a special section at good discounts. I like the store and always enjoy my monthly visits.

Great old bookstore with traditional Moravian gifts as well. Tours of Bethlehem and other local activities start here. Visit around Christmas. Its beautiful and the gifts are wonderful!

Its a great Christmas all year round shop and it also has sweets and Books. Its very charming, on the pricy side, but worth it. They also have book events and they added a pet section. If you are in town, its definitely a put stop.

I liked it so much more when it was a book store and not a college store, eatery and brew pub

Great staff!! Super friendly!!!

Very disappointed! Going through the store has become a tradition when visiting Bethlehem. The college ruined the charm of the store. They took out everything that I enjoyed and replaced it with college clothing. What little Christmas decor they have left is overpriced. The only people that would shop there now are the college students. A wonderful tradition gone.

Big thanks for getting the music and candles together in time for my Moms Funeral this Saturday. My Mother, Julia McLean Brossman was a life long Moravian. I will be giving each person that comes to the Funeral a candle to remember her. ThanksI remember coming here with my Mom and my wife and I came here after my Father passes. Wonderful place with great people.

I love it. They have a nice selection of books, and the shops next door have nice things as well. Can even walk over without exiting the buildings. The lady at the bookshop was super nice.

Quaint bookstore with a great selection and wonderful staff. Also a nice shop attached with all sorts of gifts and such. Great for holiday shopping.

Wow, this establishment is a swank bookstore and so much more. They is great handmade gifts and a saloon where you can partake is locally produced in MEAD. Kinda like wine, more like champagne. Bunch of flavors, each one better than the last.

Not the same. No charm. Very cold antiseptic feeling. I used to buy books here because I wanted to support local business, now Im headed to Amazon (or my hometown shop.) Christmas selection is that of a Target. Book selection is vanilla at best. Locked steel doors at one end, and Moravian College shirts on the other. Also candy at the registers. Crystal shop a few doors down said they got Byers Choice pieces because Moravian Book Shop passed on them. Its a dull shame.

The Moravian Book Shop springs up as a piece of old-fashioned American retail thats kept with the times. The interior is very quaint and very decorated but still functional. The young adult section is sequestered in a neat corner. The store is also home to/attached to a very pleasant cafe as well as the Colony Meadery.

Beautiful store(s) and I love seeing non-chain bookstores thrive. Most of the employees are sweet hearts, but a few can be a bit rude or even seem hostile at times. Its mostly on the gift and cafe side where this happens, and its surprising because Im always polite to all of them. I havent encountered this much in other book or apparel stores. It makes me uneasy to hang out in the store, which I do purchase from whenever I can, and I love the places to sit and rest.

This place is much more then a book store. They sell gifts and toys for the kids. They also sell jewelry and candy. All can be accessed from the inside. I strongly recommend you take a look.

Great local book store. Wish more small hometown businesses were still around.

Beautiful little store in a beautiful little town. Only 4 stars because their romance and graphic novel selection was wanting.

We were disappointed! It looks so genetic. The lovely gifts, kitchen items, accessories, cafe, etc. are no longer there. Book selection is excellent, but not necessarily a motivator to visit Bethlehem as it has been.

Not a fan of the recent changes. Went as a Christmas tradition and its turned into a college store with very little Christmas. The book store was remodeled and looks like a barns and nobles. Truly disappointing. 36yrs of tradition. And I could experience that in any shopping mall.