Expanded Space Promises More Books and Cafe Bites at Porter Square Books
Customers gather in the new storefront of Porter Square Books and Page & Leaf Cafe.
After nearly three decades in Cambridge, Porter Square Books welcomes readers and coffee lovers to its new, expanded location just across the street from its former space. The move, completed in November, provided an opportunity not just for more books, but also integrated a cafe space thanks to a partnership with the team behind Diesel Cafe in Davis Square, Bloc Cafe, and Forge Baking Company. Welcome to the new Page & Leaf Cafe, ready to satiate literary cravings alongside caffeine fixes.
Books are on display in the interior of Porter Square Books.
Located at 1815 Massachusetts Ave within the Lesley University mall, the new bookstore boasts a wider selection of titles. “I’m thrilled to offer even more books and authors to our amazing community,” a statement from Porter Square Books reads.
A view inside the new Page & Leaf Cafe, which shares the bookstore space.
Cafe Experince Complements the Bookworm Experience
The expanded space allows for a curated experience. While customers can peruse new releases and discover hidden literary gems, Page & Leaf provides a relaxing atmosphere to savor a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.
A sign indicates the new location of Porter Square Books.
Original Artwork Courtesy of Porter Square Books
Meanwhile, Cafe Zing maintains a presence in Cambridge, occupying the original Porter Square Books storefront at 25 White Street.
Customers view the Cafe Zing menu on Dec. 1.
Cafe Zing remains open in Porter Square, occupying 25 White Street.
What initiatives has Porter Square Books taken to create a sense of community in its new space?
## A New Chapter for Porter Square Books
**(Intro music)**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Today we’re talking books, coffee, and a beloved Cambridge institution entering an exciting new chapter. Joining us is Alex Reed, a regular at Porter Square Books and a self-proclaimed caffeine addict, to share their thoughts on the bookstore’s recent expansion. Welcome to the show, Alex Reed!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** So, as many of our viewers know, Porter Square Books moved to a larger space just across the street from its original location in November [[1](https://www.tuftsdaily.com/article/2024/12/in-photos-porter-square-books-turns-the-page-with-new-expansion)]. What are your first impressions of the new space?
**Alex Reed:** It’s fantastic! I’ve been going to Porter Square Books for years, and this new location feels even more inviting. It’s brighter, more spacious, and they’ve got so many more books! [[1](https://www.tuftsdaily.com/article/2024/12/in-photos-porter-square-books-turns-the-page-with-new-expansion)]
**Host:** And let’s not forget about the new Page & Leaf Cafe [[1](https://www.tuftsdaily.com/article/2024/12/in-photos-porter-square-books-turns-the-page-with-new-expansion)]. How has that addition changed your experience at the bookstore?
**Alex Reed:** It’s a game changer! I can grab a delicious coffee or a pastry and just browse for hours. It’s the perfect excuse to spend even more time in my happy place.
**Host:** I can definitely see the appeal. For anyone who hasn’t been yet, what would you say is the biggest draw of the expanded Porter Square Books?
**Alex Reed:** Honestly, it’s the whole experience. It’s more than just a bookstore now, it’s a community hub. You can find your next great read, enjoy a tasty treat, and connect with fellow book lovers all in one place.
**Host:** Well said! Thanks for joining us today, Alex Reed, and sharing your perspective on this local gem’s exciting new chapter.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure!
**(Outro music)**
