ALLSTON, Mass.— The cozy charm of Molly’s Bookstore is coming to Boston this fall. King Street Properties announced that the independent bookseller will open its second location at Allston Labworks, a mixed-use development designed to bring together life science, retail, and residential spaces along the emerging Western Avenue corridor.
The expansion marks a significant milestone for Molly’s, which first opened in Melrose in 2023. Founded by Andrea Iriarte Dent, an attorney-turned-bookseller, the store has quickly become known for its thoughtfully curated selection of new and used books, inviting atmosphere, and commitment to building community. The shop is named after Iriarte Dent’s rescue dog, Molly, and inspired by her global travels visiting independent bookstores.
“We’re thrilled to be opening our second location at Allston Labworks and to bring our beloved bookstore experience to the Allston neighborhood,” said Dent. “Our vision has always been to create a welcoming place where people can gather, read, and connect—a true community space for all.”
Molly’s is the fourth commercial lease at Allston Labworks, a King Street Properties project designed to foster synergy between science and the surrounding neighborhood. The Allston location will offer the same warm, inclusive atmosphere as the original store and will host events, community gatherings, and book-themed programming for readers of all ages.
“Allston Labworks was always envisioned as a destination where innovation and community thrive side by side,” said Mike Diminico, Managing Director and Partner at King Street Properties. “Welcoming Molly’s Bookstore to the project reinforces our commitment to creating a dynamic neighborhood where culture and commerce enrich one another.”
The bookstore joins a growing list of local tenants at the development, including BioBuilder, a nonprofit life science training center for high school students; Alchemy Station, a woman-owned art consultancy and creative studio; FiDO, a New York-style pizza restaurant and cocktail bar from Traveler Street Hospitality; and Park Bagelry, a new concept by Tiny Engine Collective.
Molly’s will occupy part of the project’s 20,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space, spread across three buildings. The expansion aligns with King Street’s strategy to prioritize local, mission-driven businesses as foundational elements of the development.
With its second chapter set to begin in Allston, Molly’s Bookstore is poised to continue its story as not just a place to buy books—but a destination to build community.