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Nestled in the foothills of the Shawangunk mountains and the southern Catskills, the Common Good strives to be an inspiring and welcoming community hub where visitors can not only find a wide array of books, but enjoy craft cocktails, coffee, unique gifts, and space to congregate, collaborate, connect and unwind. With books, magazines, coffee or cocktails in hand whether at a book club meet-up, author talk, trivia night, open mic, adult history class, music performance, or just sitting at the bar in conversation we believe we can bring out the best in us, by bringing all of us, together; that we can work to enhance the common good, and strive to build something new, or perhaps just help reconstruct something worthwhile from the venerable, decent, old traditions weve inherited.
From Google. Shown as written by the reviewers.
Hayli Murray
October 2025
The Common Good is such a gem- part bookstore, part bar, and genuinely welcoming (and basically our second living room). It’s the kind of place where you can browse a diverse selection books, grab an incredible cocktail, and end up chatting with someone interesting. The space is effortlessly cozy and unique, and the owners/staff truly care about the community.
Bonnie Mohan
February 2025
The Common Good has quickly become my favorite place in town. It’s where I go when I need a change of scenery working from home, a place to take my kids on the weekends where they can explore books over hot chocolate, and a place to get a break from the kids in the evenings over one of Ellie’s amazing cocktails. Most importantly, it’s a place to find conversation and community. I never leave without having a chat with someone, about books or life or anything. This type of community space is missing in so many people’s lives. I’m grateful to Matthew, Beatrice, Kalea, and Ellie for creating this beautiful bookstore that is so much more than a bookstore.
Anja
December 2025
This is a beautiful space with great energy. I visited a friend and was happy this place opened within the last year. It’s nice to sit and write, have a drink at the bar, see a concert or browse books. The intention is to create community and you can feel it. Also they have the best hot chocolate in town - made with the most love, for sure.
Moranda Bromberg
October 2025
The Common Good is my absolute favorite bookstore. Their selection is top notch and their staff is lovely. Ellie makes a great mocktail at the bar. And the space is stunning and cozy. Great kids room. Great bar. Comfy chairs to read in. Lots of events and space to hang out. Awesome place. You’ll feel right at home. Also their grilled cheese with the side of tomato soup is 10/10.
Paul
November 2025
The Common Good does a lot of good for Ellenville! Matthew has created a wonderful safe and welcoming space for the community. I’ve been coming in for the year since it opened and have seen authors talk about their books, musicians who reflect the diversity of the community, and have met local people I probably wouldn’t have met. Ellenville is rising, so go in support local bookstores and help generate a new, well educated era for the people here.
