The Difference Between a Bookstore and a Bookshop

We take a deep dive to explore the key differences between a bookstore and a bookshop, clarifying the terms, their usage, and how Newton Bookshop is positioned as a modern, customer-focused book retail hub.

  Isaac Mohammed 

          JULY 8, 2025 · 6 MIN READ

Introduction

When you are trying to decide where to find your next perfect book, the words ‘bookstore’ and ‘bookshop’ are sometimes interchangeable. But do you ever wonder what the difference actually is between the two? Although they may be used interchangeably, there are slight differences based on geography, how it’s used, and occasionally where your business focus lies. In this article, we’ll get to understand what separates a bookstore and a bookshop, set the record straight on their contemporary meanings, and take a stand on where Newton Bookshop stands and why we are proud of it.

What is a Bookshop?

The use of “bookshop” is common in British English for a store in which books are sold. It provides a more intimate, welcoming, and curated feel. These establishments are usually known for being independent sellers or small in size, and known for having a handpicked collection of books spanning across all genres of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, local authors, and hard finds.

What is a Bookstore?

On the other hand, bookstore is the most common term in American English. It also seems to describe larger, frequently more commercial enterprises. Imagine the sprawling retail conglomerates, the university bookstores, and the super-sprawling emporiums that sell not only books and magazines but also stationery, electronics, and what have you.

Global Usage & Modern Reality

In the modern world, and particularly with the advent of eCommerce, the distinctions between what constitutes a bookstore and a bookshop can be easily blurred. Nowadays, countless online stores and retailers of all sizes and origins use both words interchangeably for SEO and longer reach.

At Newton Bookshop, we stand between two worlds. We use "Bookshop" as opposed to "Bookstore," as this is a British English-based site and we're a Ghanaian store targeting the Commonwealth and African audience, where Bookshop feels culturally more resonant and familiar. But in terms of function and structure, we resemble a contemporary bookstore with the same number of titles in similar categories at the same price points (relative to the list price).

         vs   

Obvious Points of Difference of a Bookshop from a Bookstore

Bookshop (UK): British English, small/independent, intimate/personal, popular in the UK/Commonwealth.

Bookstore (US): American English, large, commercial, varied, common in the US/Canada.

Why It Matters to You

Whatever you call it—bookstore or bookshop—it’s the experience, value, and quality that count. At Newton Bookshop, we do more than sell books; we inspire minds, nourish knowledge, and enable reading. It’s why our tagline is: ‘Read More, Pay Less.’

Final Thoughts

So, the next time you encounter a bookstore or a bookshop, though the nuances might be subtle, the substance is the same: a portal to knowledge, imagination, and change. And if you’re in Ghana or anywhere in Africa and you seek the best place to buy books online, Newton Bookshop should be your go-to bookshop. Visit us now at www.newtonbookshop.com and find your next good book today!