This may be my favorite used bookstore yet!…read more The ladies working there were so welcoming and friendly. They let me and my boyfriend in a few minutes before opening so we could get out of the cold. So thoughtful. The selection was amazing. I snagged some older titles and then came across a table with some newer titles and all $6 and under. What a bargain. Will absolutely be back!

At first I couldn't find this place because there was a mini golf set up in the courthouse square…read more I had to literally walk around the block and saw these signs that read "used books" "this way" haha. This place is really hole-in-the-wall basement ish warehouse type feel bookstore. The prices are amazing for the used books. It is incredibly reasonably priced. I found two children's books in very good quality for $1 each. What a steal! For the most part, don't expect finding hot new bestsellers in here. This place is like for book antiques or if you need a used copy of something that might be a few years back. It was good for what I needed since I'm looking for some older historical fiction books about the American revolution. I was surprised to find two books here that I needed and so maybe you'll get lucky too! The couple who owns this place are very friendly. They said hi right upon me walking in. Selection is pretty wide, the books genres are organized in a neat way but the books themselves are scattered. For example, the fiction and nonfiction adult books are alphabetical order by last name but the children's books are not. It made things harder for me to look but I didn't mind since I had time. If you're in a rush then maybe this place isn't the best or just ask the lady up front for help! Overall this place is a gem and the proceeds go to a good cause--San Mateo historical foundation!

The Most American Small Business Book Store I've ever been to…read more Owner/Operators and employees are educated, knowledgeable, honest and sincere.

Reach and Teach is truly a local gem and one of the most inspiring shops on the Peninsula. They…read moreoffer a carefully curated mix of progressive books, educational toys and games, eco‑friendly products, and other high‑quality gifts you won't find in big box stores. Every visit feels like a treasure hunt--you'll discover something meaningful, fun, and thoughtful. The two owners are not only super friendly but also deeply civic‑minded, always ready to share knowledge and support community causes. Their passion for education, sustainability, and social justice shines through in everything they do. If you're looking for a place that combines heart, purpose, and great finds, Reach and Teach is a must‑visit.

Coming to cities in the U.S. and visiting them as a Pilipino American, you get to learn about…read moreenclaves (not ghettos) of your own fellow Pilipinos who have moved to the U.S.A for a better life for them and their children. In San Diego (there is National City and Mira Mesa), In SF (SOMA and Daly City as well as other smaller areas). Staying in the SOMA area this weekend and walking around Mission st, I happen to walk and see a sign saying Bayanihan Community House. Bayanihan is the Pilipino word for Cooperation amongst villagers or townsfolk. You do it in the Philippines as well as here in the US where it can be intimidating. As I walked around the SOMA area, I saw more signs of Filipinos that actually work, live and have businesses in the same area. Things you find out walking. Arkipelago (pilipino word for Archipelago) bookstore caught my eye when I saw that they had a easy learning book that was good for introduction for small kids. Some of the words are not even commonly used unless you are in the Philippines but they were nice. There were other books for sale and they are available in the Internet which will be great. If you also need to find out about some Filipino-American events in the area, this Community House/ Bookstore will be a nice start. Filipinos are as great a part of the San Francisco community as the other Asians especially the Japanese and Chinese. If you want to know more about Filipinos and the culture and of course the history, go visit the store and get something to read, they also have the usual Pilipino knick knacks or t-shirts but visit for the Filipino books!

Ordered a book and no response from their website email, phone call or credit partner within a 2…read moremonth period for them to respond. Luckily my funds were returned from my credit partner. Perhaps they are living off a government subsidized loan that they won't have to pay back and aren't working for the past month.

This is one of the best bookstores. Recently moved a few blocks away from its original locale…read more Yes, one if my favorite quirky bookstores. I just want to sit and let the words envelope me. Takes me on journeys from a sitting position. This is truly a special spot . No, a holy spot where literature and west coast ease come together. Mashed and spiced with ideas of love and loss. Science and fiction. Her story and His. Excellent service. Real and not plastered plastic. Excellent selection of used treasures. Best value for dreams and dreaming.

Stumble upon this nice used bookstore. No only does it have its own personality overall, check out…read morethe variety books. Great selection from which I picked up two books myself. Best part of strolling through the stacks are the interesting comments, images, and quotes throughout the store. So check out those bookshelf end caps for some thought proving wisdom. Parking in the lot behind the building is easy. Great location in downtown in a walkable area near other places to also ready and enjoy your great finds here! Oh, and they sell vinyl LPs also!

Everyone who works here is professional and friendly! If you are looking for a book for yourself or…read morea gift the workers do a wonderful job choosing the right book. They have lots of special events and offer ongoing fun storytimes for the little ones. Check their website for more info. Do yourself a favor and visit here. Spend some time here and enjoy a great read. Support local businesses. This place is fantastic!

I wish I found the Reading Bug sooner! Their sections of children's books are so extensive and…read moredivided by different topics made it easy for someone like me, who came in with ZERO IDEA on what she wanted, be able to find things easily. They do also have books for young adults and adults alike, although the sections are smaller than for children, but the owners told me that they can always order books, as well, if you're looking for something specific! Overall, I probably spent more time than I needed inside, but it was time well spent. The books I got for my Godson were perfect (in my opinion!) and I'd come back again to get more children's books.

I found this place on TikTok and decided to stop by. We parked right in front as soon as it opened…read more The place is beautiful. They have so many good book that I have not seen anywhere. I found older books so a lot of hidden books. They have a teen section and kids section. The books go up to the ceiling and they have an upstairs. Highly recommend coming here so many great finds.

I was wandering around downtown Palo Alto with my sister when we came across Bell's Bookstore. I…read moredidn't know anything about it, but was captivated the moment I walked in. They offer new, used, vintage, and rare books in a charming atmosphere. I enjoyed wandering the aisles without really looking for anything special, just checking out whatever grabbed my attention. Among the books that caught my eye were two used hardcover books on the Beatles that had lots of great photos and stories, but they were too heavy to carry around downtown until dinner. I'd like to go back and get them. I ended up buying a small book of Rumi poems and a dragon journal for my niece for Christmas. My sister bought two vintage pulp fiction books with awesome covers. This is such a special book store. I highly encourage you to check it out.

I love this shop . I live up in Sf and try to stop by anytime I'm in San Mateo .. The wife /…read morehusband duo that owns / runs it are very nice .. and they carry some of the coolest stuff for your home or apartment ... very well curated !!

Finally came in after passing by who knows how many times. Was searching for a birthday present and…read morethey helped me out so much with recs. Went above and beyond to gift wrap things, even though not everything was purchased from them. Very friendly, would come back again!

wow this place is literally a warehouse of chinese language books and they have subjects on every…read morematter. i've only seen bookstores this large in china and hong kong. they also have a decent section on english translations. there is an upstairs of chinese art prints and such too. if you can't find it locally try here.