Welcome to The Open Door!

The Open Door is Schenectady's locally-owned independent bookstore and gift gallery, serving the capital region for more than 45 years. We carry a wide selection of literature, with an emphasis on children's books and those of local and regional interest, as well as an expansive variety of toys, gifts, jewelry, stationery, personal accessories and home goods.

Situated in the heart of downtown Schenectady, on pedestrian Jay Street, we're around the corner from Proctors Theatre and countless restaurants!

Upcoming Events Next Several Weeks

Rudy Nydegger Signing Clocking In

09/21/2019

Clocking in: The Psychology of Work (Psychology of Everyday Life) Cover Image

Rudy Nydegger will be signing Clocking In: The Psychology of Work.

Rudy Nydegger, PhD, is Professor Emeritus of Psychology and Management at Union College, and the Chief of Psychology at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady N.Y.

Paul O’Brien Signing CT: A Cat’s Story

09/28/2019

Paul O’Brien wil be signing CT: A Cat’s Story (Illustrated by Jeanne Licata).

The story of one cat’s journey from a farm outside Cooperstown to his new home in Niskayuna. CT looks back on why he left the farm and how he found his new home a pretty cool place to live.

Paul O’Brien taught English at Notre Dame and Notre Dame-Bishop Gibbons for forty-seven years.

Featured Books and Info

Thanks for Your Support of Indie Businesses.

Local retailers are your friends and neighbors—support them and they’ll support you.

Local businesses donate to charities at more than twice the rate of national chains. More independents means more choice, more diversity, and a truly unique community.