Tome on the Range

Tome on the Range takes its playful name seriously, serving as a literary home on the open range of the American Southwest. Located on Central Avenue, the old Route 66, the store occupies a beautifully renovated 1940s commercial building with turquoise trim and exposed adobe walls. The bilingual section is one of the most comprehensive in the state, reflecting Albuquerque's rich multicultural heritage and its deep roots in both Spanish and English literary traditions. Owner Maria Elena Padilla curates a mystery section that pays special homage to the tradition of Southwest noir, from Rudolfo Anaya to contemporary voices. The back patio, shaded by cottonwood trees and strung with chile ristras, hosts Friday evening acoustic sets that blend seamlessly with the store's warm, community-focused atmosphere.