Beginning in the 1970s, with the popularity of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings series, a variety of independent bookstores specializing in science fiction, fantasy, horror, and related genres (often mystery, comics, games, and/or collectibles), began opening.^[1] Among the first were Andromeda Books in Birmingham, England (1971-2002),^[2] Bakka-Phoenix Bookstore in Toronto and A Change of Hobbit in Southern California, both established in 1972. As independent bookstores suffered during the business shifts of the late 20th and early 21st century, many of these closed.^[3] During their heyday, however, they were a key part of science fiction fandom, facilitating not just publishing, distribution, and promotion of books, but public events, social events, and community-building.

This list is meant to include past and present "brick-and-mortar" bookstores. Bookstores that were once "brick-and-mortar", but have moved online, should be included. Bookstores that have only ever been solely online vendors should be listed separately.

• A Change of Hobbit, 1972–1991, in Southern California^[4][5]
• The Other Change of Hobbit, established 1974 in Berkeley,^[1] later in El Cerrito (now mail-order only)
• DreamHaven Books,^[6] Minneapolis, Minnesota (established 1977)^[7]
• Forbidden Planet, New York City and London