We can’t thank our readers enough for contributing to our fundraising goal. We’re ~$1,800 away from our goal of $5,000 — and our fundraising campaign ends tonight. Help us by giving today and supporting our free, unbiased approach to local journalism. We promise, this is the last time this year we’ll bother you about donations.
There’s plenty to discover in South Congress Books’ new store. | Photo via @socobooks
Picture this: you come home excited to read the book you just purchased. Even better, you saved money buying it at a local used bookstore.
This doesn’t need to be fiction. The Austin area is home to many used bookstores where you can discover new titles and become the second person to read a book for the first time.
Recycled Reads, 5335 Burnet Rd.
This bookstore is part of the Austin Public Library system and offers a curated selection of titles. All sales benefit APL, and best of all, there’s no due date. Pro tip: If you have pre-loved media that’s in good condition, Recycled Reads accepts donations.
South Congress Books, 3703 Kerbey Lane
Originally opened in 2011, this store started a new chapter when it moved to old Austin in 2023. A trip to the shop may feel like you’re entering a time capsule because it sells well-maintained collectible and vintage books.
Reverie Books, 5330 Menchaca Rd., Ste. D
Located in south Austin, this store sells both new + used titles. Many books focus on social justice, and the community-oriented store also hosts events and author talks.
The Book Burrow, 401 W. Pecan, Ste. G, Pflugerville
This store started as a pop-up shop selling previously loved books, but now it has an address you can write in ink. It has both new + used titles, and its shelf-aware staff will help you find the perfect one.
Half Price Books, various location
Originally established in Dallas, this chain has expanded nationally with seven locations in the Austin metro area. You can even browse titles online, but nothing beats the treasure hunt you’ll experience in a local store.
Psst — This is a first edition. If we missed a great, local used bookstore, let us know.
Asked
How do you usually get books to read?
A. I buy them new at a store B. I buy them at a used bookstore C. I go to the library D. I buy ebooks
Live at Lakeline Concert Series | Friday, May 10 | 6:30 p.m. | Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Dr., Cedar Park | Free | Bring lawn chairs and a picnic — The South Austin Moonlighters perform this week.
Alejandro Aranda | Friday, May 10 | 8 p.m. | Mohawk, 606 E. 7th St., Austin | $20 | The “American Idol” season 17 runner up performs with guest Deniz Love.
Saturday, May 11
Hancock Golf Course 125th Anniversary | Saturday, May 11 | 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Hancock Golf Course, 811 E. 41st St., Austin | Free | The longstanding course unveils historic signage and hosts the 125 Anniversary Cup golf tournament.
For the Love of Parks | Saturday, May 11 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Richard Moya Park, 10001 Burleson Rd., Austin | Free | Show love for Travis County’s parks with family-friendly fun including music, activities, and a bridge tour.
Las Vegas Aviators vs. Round Rock Express| Saturday, May 11 | 7:15 p.m. | Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock | $15-$89 | Swing by for “Star Wars” Night followed by a post-game drone show.
Dead Presidents Comedy Contest | Saturday, May 11 | 10 p.m. | The Velveeta Room, 521 E. 6th St., Austin | $20 | Seven comedians compete to win a $200 prize, and the audience will help pick the winner.
Sunday, May 12
Mother’s Day Market | Sunday, May 12 | 12 p.m. | Meanwhile Brewing Co., 3901 Promontory Point Dr., Austin | Free | Shop from local vendors, sip on beer, and grab brunch from food trucks — a free Vinyasa yoga class takes place on the soccer field at 10 a.m.
Nicki Minaj: “Pink Friday 2 World Tour” | Sunday, May 12 | 8:30 p.m. | The Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Dr., Austin | $97+ | Calling all Barbz: The rap icon takes the mic with guest Monica.
Mark your calendar to snag tickets to Gambler Days
Get ready to experience an action-packed event unlike any other. | Photos provided by Austin Gamblers; GIF by ATXtoday
The Austin Gamblers, Austin’s professional bull riding team, just announced its lowest prices of the season for the 2024 Gambler Days, presented by Tecovas, happening August 23-25 at the Moody Center.
For one day only, on 512 Day (aka Sunday, May 12), fans can use code 512 to grab 51.2% off regular tickets for the Friday or Sunday performance.
Score an all-inclusive ticket below to see all of the edge-of-your-seat bull riding action, along with live music, giveaways, interactive displays and vendors, food + drinks, and so much more this summer.
The City of Austin is asking locals for feedback as it balances its fiscal year 2024-2025 budget. Residents can complete a survey where they select their three biggest priorities from 12 service areas. The survey will be open through the end of May; results will be publicized in July.
Environment
Austinites could earn some green by conserving water this summer. The city’s WaterWise Landscape Rebate Program is now accepting applications, allowing residents to earn up to $3,000 in rebates by incorporating water-saving initiatives into their yards.
Biz
Arkane Studios — a local video game developer that’s part of Microsoft’s gaming division — announced it is shutting down. The department opened in Austin in 2006 and has served Xbox Game Studios. Due to the closure, 96 employees were laid off. (KVUE)
Development
City officials have broken ground on Cairn Point Cameron, a multifamily residential building in Council District 4’s Coronado Hills neighborhood. The complex will have 150 units for low-to-moderate income residents aged 55+ and will offer access to supportive services. Construction is expected to be completed in September 2025.
Number
559 pounds. That’s the weight of all the medication disposed in Travis County on April 27, Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The occurrence allows locals to safely deposit unwanted, expired, or unused medications to reduce the risk of misuse. The county also has prescription take-back kiosks available year-round.
Announced
It’s almost showtime — Paramount Theatre released its Summer Classic Film Series schedule, the 50th anniversary of the cinematic tradition. The lineup begins with a double feature of “Casablanca” + “Top Hat” on Friday, May 24 and the calendar features events, local collaborations, and theme weeks.
Community
Check it out — San Marcos City Council members approved economic incentives aimed at bringing new grocery stores to the city. The plan will provide property and sales tax rebates for up to five years. The incentives are designed to attract new developments and address the shortage of stores. (KVUE)
Sports
What’s the latest Spurs news, and which players could be the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft? Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the San Antonio Spurs with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Active
Feeling inspired after watching The Masters last month? Discover the ultimate golf experience at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, located in the picturesque Austin Hill Country — only ~11 miles from downtown Austin. Book a weekend staycation and enjoy exclusive access to the best golf experience in Texas.*
Wellness
Match with a licensed therapist on Betterhelp and talk anytime, anywhere — phone, video, or text. Get 25% off your first month.*
Open
🌆 A swingin’ time in Easton Park
Skyline Park debuts in Easton Park
Skyline Park received approval from Austinites and their canine companions. | Photo via Jane Yun
There’s a new way to play in Easton Park: Skyline Park is open. The 21-acre space offers tons of outdoor fun to the Southeast Austin neighborhood, and as the name implies, stunning views of the city skyline.
Development on Skyline Park began in 2022 thanks to a $13 million investment from real estate developer Brookfield Residential Properties. It aims to preserve Austin’s green space while providing areas for the community to gather. Key features include:
A play and climbing structure for kids ages 5+ designed to look like stacked houses
A play area for kids ages 2-5 with a softer surface for bouncing and playing
Splash pads to beat the Texas heat
A shady pavilion for concerts + shows
Mini Penny Bridge — a small-scale replica of Austin’s Pennybacker Bridge
“Singing Mountain,” a kinetic, musical wind sculpture
Ready to swing by? Skyline Park is located at 7800 Apogee Blvd. and is open from dawn until dusk.
The Buy
The Buy 5.10.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
This bestselling cordless table lamp. No cord means it’s ideal for outdoor lounge areas and patios — the rechargeable battery lasts up to 48 hours per full charge. Snag it in black, antique brass, or brushed nickel.
My summer reading list is getting pretty long, but there’s always space to add a few more titles. If you’re looking for something to read, I recommend checking out some books by local authors, because Austinites always have stories to tell.
Content marked with an * is paid advertising. Content marked with an ^ is created by our content studio. The company may also generate commission from affiliate links in the newsletter.