Logos can say a lot in just one glance. If you run a bookstore or you’re an indie publisher, you need one that sticks in people’s minds. It should feel warm, creative, and a little magical—just like a good book. Whether you’re launching your business or refreshing a tired brand, the right logo makes a shelf-worthy difference.
TLDR
Coming up with a great logo for your bookstore or publishing company can be fun! Think books, pens, owls, and other bookish icons. Use clear shapes, bold fonts, and a style that tells your story. Read on for 12 logo ideas to spark your imagination.
1. The Open Book Icon
Simple and iconic. An open book instantly connects viewers to your store’s purpose. Use curved lines to suggest pages, or silhouette two open covers. Great for clean, modern branding.
Bonus tip: Add motion lines to suggest a page turning—it brings energy and movement.
2. Stack of Books
This is a classic. A small tower of books is cozy and charming. You can stylize them like rectangles or add old-fashioned texture and spines.
Who it fits: Great for secondhand shops, literary cafes, or reading nooks.
3. The Quill and Ink
Want an antique, vintage feel? A quill and ink well bring to mind classic literature, poetry, and history. It’s perfect for indie publishers or stores with a focus on the classics.
Design idea: Put the ink bottle inside a book icon. Elegant and smart.
4. Book and Coffee Cup Combo
Is your bookstore also a café? This friendly duo lets readers know they’ll get stories and sips. Combine a steaming mug with an open book or a bookmark poking out.
Warm and welcoming: This logo style creates a homey, relaxed brand style.
5. The Hidden Letter
This one’s clever. Hide a letter or initials inside the shape of a book, pen, or lightbulb. People love a “wait–what?” double-take moment.
Example: Shape the letter “B” into an open book silhouette. Sleek and memorable.
6. Owl Mascot
Owls are smart, cute, and timeless symbols of wisdom. Giving your shop or press an owl mascot instantly adds personality.
Pro tip: Use simple lines and round glasses for a modern “book nerd” owl vibe.
7. The Reading Lamp
Cozy reading at night? That image feels familiar and warm. A small desk lamp with rays shining down onto a book adds emotion to a logo.
Perfect for: Stores that sell bedtime stories, or publishers of calm, thoughtful books.
8. Typography Magic
Sometimes all you need is a great font. Choose a bold, serif typeface for a classic look. For something younger, try handwritten or calligraphic fonts.
- BOLD AND BLOCKY fonts = reliable and professional
- SCRIPT OR CURSIVE fonts = elegant or artsy
- HANDWRITTEN fonts = casual, creative, cozy
Tip: Keep it readable, even small. Your logo might go on bookmarks one day!
9. Book Tree
Imagine a tree growing pages instead of leaves. This logo tells a story—about growth, learning, and branching out through books.
Nature + Knowledge: It’s poetic and great for educational publishers or children’s bookstores.
10. The Portal Logo
Books take us to other worlds. Why not show that visually? A logo could feature a doorway, a hole in the page, or a glowing book that looks like a portal.
For fantasy lovers: Perfect for sci-fi publishers or fantasy bookstores that love escapism.
11. The Minimalist Book Mark
Try just a tidy little bookmark with your name written along it. It’s clean and crisp. Bonus: bookmarks are usable, so your logo could become swag!
Modern appeal: Minimalism makes this style pop in today’s digital world.
12. Letterpress Vibes
Inspired by old printing techniques, this style uses blocky letter shapes and classic press imagery. It has craft and texture.
- Great for indie lit publishers
- Nods to print heritage
- Looks strong on paper merch and book spines
Insider tip: Combine a letter and shape, like an ink roller for the “O” in “Books.”
Final Tips for Picking the Perfect Logo
With so many cool ideas, how do you choose? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Simplicity is everything – don’t over-clutter it.
- Scalability – test your logo small and large (website to window sign).
- Stick to 1–2 colors to make it more versatile.
- Make it true to your vibe – quirky, classic, cozy, or cool.
Let Your Logo Tell Your Story
A logo isn’t just a picture; it’s a promise. Make yours warm, bookish, and true to your mission. It should invite people in. Whether they want to read, buy, or publish, your logo is the first hello.
So grab a sketchpad, brainstorm with a friend, or play around with a free design tool. Your perfect bookish logo is waiting…