Here’s the story: We’re always looking for our next page-turner. Columbia has many options where you can buy books while supporting local businesses. We’ve collected a small catalog of bookstores where you can find new — or new-to-you — books in Soda City.
Since 2023, this store has been serving Five Points as a community hub with drinks, events, and many books. It was founded by former Odd Bird Books owner Ben Adams + USC tax law professor Clint Wallace who received help from the community through a Kickstarter campaign.
The Book Dispensary’s story goes back to 1975, making it Columbia’s oldest independently owned used bookstore. You can also trade in books here, and its selection of rare books makes it a treasure trove for collectors.
Help books begin their next chapter by shopping at this used + collectible store. Ed’s Editions has been a part of the West Columbia community since 2001, and the store typically packs a selection of 30,000+ books.
Knowledge at Noon: Spring Migration | 12-1 p.m. | Historic Columbia, virtual | Free | Learn to identify colorful warblers as they start to migrate through Columbia.
USC Gamecocks vs. Wofford Terriers Softball | 6 p.m. | Carolina Softball Stadium At Beckham Field | $10 | Watch the game with your favorite four-legged Gamecocks fan — it’s Bark in the Park night.
Thursday, April 3
Tartan Day South Kick Off Party | 6:30 p.m. | Steel Hands Brewing, Cayce | Free | Kick off the weekend of Celtic fun with drinks and music by The Crossjacks.
“She Loves Me” | Thursday, April 3-Sunday, April 6 | Times vary | Town Theatre | $20+ | Set in the 1930s, this romantic + comedic musical follows two feuding shop owners who are unknowingly pen pals.
Friday, April 4
EGG-Cessible Egg Hunt | 6-7 p.m. | Leo’s Landing Inclusive Playground | $3 | This sensory-friendly, inclusive egg hunt lets people with physical or cognitive challenges search for candy-filled eggs in a welcoming environment.
2025 Bourbon and Cigars Line Dancing Edition | 7-11:30 p.m. | The Gala Event Center | $10+ | Grab your boots and get ready for all-levels dancing, plus enjoy bourbon and cigars.
Saturday, April 5
Columbia International Festival | Saturday, April 5-Sunday, April 6 | Times vary | SC State Fairgrounds | $10 | This event brings all of the area’s international communities together showcasing music, culture, food, and performing arts.
Moms, Babies + Families Marketplace | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Charles Drew Wellness Center | Free | Gain information on supporting moms, women, families, and babies by partaking in panels, vendor resources, discussions, and free blood pressure screenings.
Friday, May 2
Lovin’ Life Music Fest | Friday, May 2-Sunday, May 4 | 1-11 p.m. | Lovin’ Life Music Fest, Charlotte, NC | $345+ | Purchase your Lovin’ Life Music Fest single day or 3-day tickets by April 7 at midnight to get your wristbands shipped to you and skip the Will Call lines.*
Planet Fitness is the perfect place to start (or continue) your wellness journey. | Photo provided by Planet Fitness
Fitness and wellness are more popular than ever, with people of all ages embracing healthier lifestyles. Strength training, in particular, has become a key focus — not just for athletes but for anyone looking to improve overall health. Medical professionals are also encouraging strength-based workouts, especially for those using GLP-1 medications, as part of a well-rounded wellness plan.
Planet Fitness makes it simple to get started. With a welcoming, judgment-free atmosphere and a No Gymtimidation® philosophy, it’s a space where beginners and seasoned gym-goers alike can feel comfortable. Even better: All locations now offer even more plate-loaded strength equipment, making it easier than ever to build strength and confidence. Plus, you can take advantage of the benefits of recovery amenities in the Black Card Spa featuring HydroMassage™ beds, massage chairs, CyroLounge and Red Light Total Body recovery.
With nine locally owned locations across the Columbia Metro Area, there’s a Planet Fitness within 12 minutes of most residents.
Pro tip: You can join now for $1 down through April 16.
Columbia’s warm weather will continue to heat up through the end of the week. Temperatures are forecast to approach 90° tomorrow through Saturday, with the potential to set record highs. The summer-like heat will likely subside after the weekend for a cooler start next week. (WLTX)
Opening
Publix service announcement — the new Publix grocery store in Elgin will open on Wednesday, April 30. The store has been in the works for about three years since it was announced in 2022 and will occupy a 47,000 sqft space on Earth Road. (The Post and Courier)
Pets
Columbia Animal Services wants to help people help animals by offering $10 microchipping to locals. The initiative aims to help identify pets so they can return home instead of occupying shelter space. The service is available Monday-Friday; no appointment is needed.
Festival
The 9th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Fest + Parade will march back to downtown Columbia on Saturday, June 21. The celebration is focused on empowerment, resilience, and honoring ancestors and will feature entertainment, speakers, vendors, exhibits, and a parade. Sponsorship and parade participation opportunities are now open.
Number
161,000. That’s how many people moved to South Carolina from a different state between 2019 and 2023, according to recently released US Census data. People are heading to the Palmetto State for many reasons, including its climate, employment, and lifestyle. (ABC Columbia)
Plan Ahead
Paul Finebaum will be delivering his commentary at the USC School of Journalism and Mass Communications’ 2025 Buchheit Family Lecture on Wednesday, April 23. The radio host + sportscaster will share his experiences working in media and journalism at the free event, though registration is required.
Sports
Take a look back at the Hurricanes’ March record before their first April game this evening. Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the Carolina Hurricanes with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Giveaway
Hawthorne Pharmacy & Medical Equipment is giving away two early entry tickets to the Grand Tasting at the Columbia Food and Wine Festival. Enter for a chance to win — the winner will be announced on Monday, April 7. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy great food and wine before the crowds.*
Number
10. That’s how many minutes it takes to make your own smoothie bowl at home. Build a better breakfast by topping this easy recipe with crunchy toppings + fresh fruit — your body and taste buds will thank you.*
Try This
Picture your next event being promoted to our thousands of subscribers in this text ad. Our self-service ad portal can get your ad live in just two days.
The Buy
The Buy
Your favorite spring decor piece to add light and cheer into your living space:
Since we’re talking about books, we can’t ignore the Richland Library Friends and Foundation book sales. There are four every year, and the spring sale just took place last weekend at Read Freely Fest. The next one is in July, so make sure to stop by to pick up pre-owned books to add to your summer reading list.
}})
