Auntie's is the thing I think I miss most about Spokane, besides my family, of course. Sure, they have good housing prices. Their crime rate is pretty low (meth lab busts aside). Traffic is non-existent unless there's a head-on collision involving multiple semis. They are close to several Indian reservations and thus there is no better place in Washington to get fireworks. They are a half hour away from Couer'd Alene, home to the best swimming, fishing, and camping in Idaho*. My point is that Spokane has a bona fide treasure. A one of a kind gem. Don't worry, I won't make a list of books that I've gotten from here. I don't want to bore you to death. As other reviewers have noted, the used books are sometimes pretty used, but then that's why they were given that name. The readings they have are normally lively and interesting. Chuck Palahniuk did a reading there a couple of years ago but I couldn't get in due to the line of fans stretching around the block. If you are in Spokane and you like books, you must go here. *I was NOT bribed by the Spokane Chamber of Commerce to write this portion of my review. Spokane: A Great Place to Visit! read more

Auntie's Bookstore - Newspapers & Magazines Near Me - Spokane, Washington

What a historical gem in this City. There is nothing like a mom n pop bookstore, filled with character and nostalgia. So pleased with the easy lay out, the selection, the art work and the features of the building. I just wandered around, and man can you wander a while. I even saw people comfortably reading, wrapped up in their book on the floor. This is truly a special place in Spokane. read more

First of all, reading is a lost art, but it is truly one of the most rewarding and relaxing things I do. I always feel really accomplished when I finish a book and it doesn't leave me feeling crummy like certain reality TV shows do. I always learn something and end up feeling more connected to the world around me. Reading feeds my soul. Also, I highly prefer reading actual books. I don't like clicking around when I'm going to sit in my hammock for hours. I like the smell of paper and the weight of a book. I like how they stack up on my shelves like colorful slices of knowledge. One of the other great parts of the book ritual is book store shopping. Wandering, noticing, and being surprised when something catches your attention. Auntie's has it all for readers... great notes from staff about books they enjoyed, lists for bookclub ideas, author readings, events, etc. Total feel good shopping experiences all around. Great place to pick up your latest book club read or a gift. OR, if you are here for a convention at the Grand Hotel and need something amazing to read on your flight... Fun children's section (in the back left of the building). Great fair trade chocolates too if you prefer to avoid child slavery in cocoa production. I like to come here, pick up a few books, and then wander through the other great local businesses that weave into the same building (Barrister Tasting Room, Butcher Bar, Sante, Uncles, etc.) read more

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I have to give them 5 stars because on a road trip from Los Angeles, CA up to the Pacific Northwest, our daughter left her stuffed "Froggy" in the toy store that is attached to Aunties Bookstore. Not knowing where she left it exactly, I called Aunties and the nice women who answered not only looked for "Froggy", but also called me back twice with updates and then offered to mail it to us, as we continued on our road trip, for the low cost of $5 even though I offered to pay more. Now lost "Froggy" aside, it is a very nice bookstore. Having a 3 year old, we were very happy with the children's section in the back. The books were nice, the decor impressive and they had appropriate sized chairs for parents and kids to sit in while you sampled the books (read a story to your child). Now not only are they nice, and the books enjoyable, but the bookstore has the added benefit of sharing the same space as a toy store and restaurant. The restaurant is named Santé and the food there was very good. Next time I'm in Spokane, you know where I am headed. read more

Found a vintage 1949 Babar and Father Christmas children's book at Auntie's Bookstore. Nice selection of new and used books. Pleasant staff and a well maintained business. read more

I absolutely love shopping here. It is located right downtown and has such a fantastical feel to it! They have every book, card, gift idea, journal, even socks you could hope for. The staff are so helpful and take the time to take you to what you are looking for. I am being intentional in writing reviews when I have wonderful experiences. It is a blessing during these challenging times. I could spend hours dreaming in here! read more

LOVE this HUGE bookstore! So much to see and wander through, especially the children's section if you're looking for something for that special grandchild . We will be back! A must Spokane stop! read more

" Awesome Collection of Books " My wife and I visited Aunties Bookstore in Spokane Washington last week and were amazed at the collection of BOOKS ! That's correct, BOOKS ! You just don't see bookstores any more. Bookstores are going out of business at an alarming rate all across the United States, as more and more people rely on social media devices to get their book fix. It was nice to see this large bookstore not only open, but full of customers and thriving ! If you love books, and happen to be in Spokane Washington, make a visit to Auntie's Bookstore and you will not be disappointed! read more

Auntie's Bookstore - The Front of Auntie's Bookstore - Newspapers & Magazines Near Me - Spokane, Washington

For the third year in a row Aunties has ignored national women's month in March. They instead leave up black history month in their store front which features almost no women. March should have a place in their window for women of all ethnicities and persons who identify as women. As a woman I will not shop there as they don't recognize my gender or person's who identify as my gender. read more

Bountiful book selection, savvy staff, ahhhh-inducing ambiance. Auntie's is fabulous! You want to buy a book or two, park yourself in a chair or at a table and linger. Sadly, during my visit I was on vacation and on the run to meet a schedule; but I'd plan on more time for Auntie's if I'm in Spokane again. This is a "destination" spot. Seriously. Plan for it. And I say this as a Portland Oregon native who has been a pilgrim to the incomparable Powell's books in that city many times. Auntie's is different than Powell's but it is every bit as special. And while you're at Auntie's you can wander next door to the toy store Uncle's to check out the amazing collection of toys there, including a nearly unbelievable number of jigsaw puzzles. read more

Cool place. Carefully arranged. Large selection and ample floor space, but books are well-curated and easy to find. As others have noted this isn't a place to get obscure tomes. They cater to the modern mass-market consumer and their selection reflects this. Prices are comparable to a Barnes & Noble. Smallish children's section but cute, with a little out-of-the-way reading alcove. read more

They have so many reviews of books and so many books and I love the way it's all organized and I love the knick-knacks. I wish I knew where everything was made though (American or fair pay?) This store is also HUGE and really friendly about browsing folks. I could've walked around forever. Felt a bit dizzy though. read more

Staff was very friendly. They made my family feel as though we were not simply another face but an actual friend they hadn't seen in far too long. I'd recommend Auntie's Bookstore to anyone who knows what they want, who may be unsure what they want or even just passing through town (as we were). read more

I called a local used bookstore looking for a cheap copy of 'Peter Pan". The dingbat on the phone said , what I thought I'd heard, which was "actor". I said I didn't want a movie and she said,as snotty as can be " Who is the AUTHOR?" You work in a bookstore and you don't know that? Jumped in the car and went to Auntie's. Clerk didn't miss a beat and said "Oh, that would be in children's classics." and took me to that section. Very helpful. Well,well,well. I locked my keys in the car. Big dummy. I went back into the store and a lovely young woman got on the computer to find me a lockout service, which I called. She even found me a chair to sit in while I waited the 45 minutes. Got a head start on reading my book! Oh,to that ding bat at the other store? JM Barrie. read more

I have loved this bookstore since I was a teenager and before their move to the current location. I practically grew up in Auntie's and I visit every time I'm in town! read more

I liked the book store but, I had to give it 3 stars because, I was disappointed that there was no where to sit and review my choice of books. The aisles are narrow and I did not want to stand in someone's way while trying to make a decision of which item to purchase. The children's area is cute and they do have a nice selection of journals and unique greeting cards. read more

I spent a lot of time at this bookstore yesterday. The store has been in existence since 1978 (it's had a new owner for just about a year), but the building is quite old and it's *lovely*. The interior is very expansive and it's set up very attractively, with a good selection of both new & used books. In particular, the Local Interest section has a great selection. All of the employees were very friendly, and I had a wonderful conversation with Frank. read more

I mean, it's a bookstore, so that kind of automatically means five stars from me. I found multiple books that I've been on the hunt for (including one that was used, cheaper! Yay!). In fact, I found too many and had to put one back because, budget. Sadness. Great selection and good layout. I'm a fan. :) read more

At first I thought I'd died and gone to heaven! This is the bookstore of my dreams. 3 whole stories of books, books, books. The vibe is super casual and the employees are very helpful. They have used books and new books comingled so you can find deals in the subject you're looking for. There is a small store on the bottom floor that also has art and crafts from local artisans. Gorgeous handmade pottery, jewelry and items that make for great gifts. They also have a huge supply of magazines - many that I've never seen elsewhere. I was also able to find handmade, imported cards and local huckleberry truffles too. read more

Every time I go into Auntie's to buy a book, I secretly hope that it is not in stock. Why? Well, two reasons: 1) They will order any book for you and it is usually there within two days. I know that's not really a good reason to hope it's not in stock. But it makes sense when paired with the next bullet. 2) If you pay at the time of ordering, they give you a 10% discount. So if the book isn't in stock, you get it for cheaper than if it was on the shelf! And the wait is so minimal, that it doesn't matter much that I won't have it my hand as a walk out of the store. I love that we have a local, independent book store. I love that Barnes & Noble hasn't put it out of business yet. And I love, love, love that David Sedaris comes and signs books here instead of at the retail book giants. Some other highlights are that they have two locations downtown now. The one at Riverpark Square is very convenient and usually always has the book I want. Another highlight is that the Uncle's Games is nested right in its belly. FTW! Support local business. Buy books at Auntie's. read more

I love bookstores...especially locally-owned (non-chain) ones. Aunties is in downtown Spokane, and they have two floors of all things literary. Their New Arrivals and Staff Picks tables occupied most of my time when I browsed here. They had so many books I wanted to pick up (but I already have a stack to get through at home!). I need to get to some reading done ('cuz its FUNdamental!), so that I can start getting some new reads! I'd give this place 4.5 stars. read more

So many books, so little time! We spent 45 minutes geeking out and having a blast on Shop Small Saturday! My hubby has been in Auntie's many times, but it was my first time. We even got to chat with an author and wound up buying his book! Very cool. We'll be back! read more

I was an author in town for Worldcon, so of course I had to wander over to check out Auntie's! The store itself is absolutely lovely. I walked in the door and had an immediate sense that this was a cozy home for a book lover like me. I could have spent hours wandering the store, but my time was limited, as was my luggage space. I did make one purchase of a local history book, the kind of thing I wouldn't be able to find elsewhere. Auntie's is a real treasure in downtown Spokane. read more

Absolutely my favorite book store in Spokane! They have such a variety of books and the atmosphere is fantastic! The staff is helpful in finding books and answering any questions you might have! They also have a huge selections of games and even have a selection of games that you and friends can sit down and play! I can't do it any justice on here, you'll have to go and find out for yourself! read more

It's nice, but not THAT great. It looks like the people of Spokane haven't been to a really good indie book store if they're all giving Auntie's 5-star reviews. Here is what I like: I like that I have been able to go to Auntie's and catch a random reading or talk. And I like that the book store is Indie, will let you sit and read a book, buy and sell; and there is a nice little cafe. It's a nice selection for Spokane and you can get some things you won't find at chain stores. And yes, the staff is helpful. My beef with Auntie's: This is NOT a hardcore book store. I am comparing this with Powell's in Portland and Strand in NY. Those are book stores by readers for readers. I feel like Auntie's is a bit sterile. And my god - the decor makes me want to barf. I'm a 33 year old man looking for books, not a 70 year old grandmother looking for a place to rest my achy bones. It is 2011 so the old-world book stores need to compete with the Kindle and the iPad if they want to see 2015. I don't want to go to my grandmothers book store to read if I have the option of going online or to a book store that will have truly obscure options. Auntie's is just too sweet for my taste. A hardcore reader is after the books, not the welcoming interior. We want every book possible and we don't care how crammed the book shelves look or how high they reach to the ceiling. There are lots of readers in Spokane but they're being funneled to Borders, B&N, and Hastings because Auntie's isn't making the trip downtown (and the parking) easy by providing a selection that seriously blows the box stores away. My suggestion is to start buying out the other small book stores, fill Auntie's with their findings and let the place actually smell like books (go to Strands or Powells and you will SMELL the books... I don't smell books when I go to Box Stores or Aunties). read more

This is my favorite local bookstore in Spokane. It's located in downtown so it is easy to get to using public transportation. I visit once a month to see their selection of used books and to see what new books they have. I can spend hours there. There is a great selection and can always find something that I want to read. Attached is a gaming store. They have card and board games. The only thing I wish they had were more nooks to sit and read in. read more

This is my favorite bookstore thus far in my 491 months of life. It beats Elliot Bay fer sure and even Powell's. But, that might be because Powell's feels cramped, sweaty and grungy to me. (Even though I do love it.) Auntie's is spacious and well laid out. Tons of different kinds of books. Way smartie pants staff. A definite must go to in Spokane. Especially if you are a book lover. read more

The old feel of a book store is intriguing, and really puts you in the mood to read. That said, there is much to improve within this store. First and foremost, FIX THE LABELING! I shouldn't have to be less then a foot away to know which section of books I am looking at. Fortunately for me I have a pretty good idea of the section just by looking at the book covers thanks to growing up with a mom who's job was/is a library teacher. Customer service here gets a 1 out of 10. I was greeted in a indiscernible tone by the guy standing at the front counter that i had to say "what?" to make him repeat what he said (he was also preoccupied with something much too important to leave the counter for anything or anyone). The disappointment comes in the help i never received. I was in the store for an hour and looking for a few different books and much to my surprise help was nowhere to be found. I managed to find the books i was looking for after scouring multiple shelves. One of the books i finally found was a children's book priced at $18.99. Amazon sold it for $12.00 (normal price). This store needs a reality check on it's prices. Auntie's Bookstore receives 2 of 5 stars. Although quirky with an old fashion feel, the service and prices need adjusted. I will not be returning here for books I need in the future. read more

Long live the independent bookseller! Aunties, an oasis of books in downtown Spokane is the kind of Bookstore you can get lost in for days and if you're a book lover, you'd be totally content. It's tradition for me to grab coffee at the Liberty Cafe and meander through the stacks with no real agenda and next thing I know the afternoon is gone. Author signings and regular readings take place on a weekly basis and they have one of the best magazine selections in town. It's important we support local, independent bookstores if we want them to stay in business. After one visit you'll know Aunties is a worth investing in and you'll make a point to give them your business. read more

The test of a great indie bookstore. Shop, pause, consider, put half of the books in my hands back on the shelf, and still walk out with enough to read for some time. Choosing what not to buy takes serious consideration. Additional thanks to Janelle for great ideas and assistance. read more

I love this place, and I try to stop by here as often as I can to pick up enough books to last me a month at a time. The staff is always nice, and they have a great selection of books that seem to rotate through on a regular basis. I also like that they have local authors come in to read and greet. This is just a great place to relax and browse for your next mental journey. read more

Auntie's is a great place for book readers. You can buy new books. You can buy used books. You can trade old books for new books, just be sure to carry the old books into the building in a box or bag. Most of the time I find what I want. The employees are helpful, and can special order new books for you. The art book section needs a bit of upgrade. Some of auntie's books are the ones no one wants. But, I guess that is why they go on sale. read more

I love Aunties! Every time I visit Spokane, I have to hit Aunties. It's great to browse, wonderful selection of books and magazines, along with a super friendly staff. read more

Love this bookstore. Many delightful book finds and good organization. It feels homey and warm and is everything a bookstore should be. I loved the selection of Terry Pratchett novels. read more

Needed two books (The Book of Tea and Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance) I walked in for the first time and asked the girls at the counter. They looked them up, walked me over to the section, and helped me find them. Quick, courteous, and jovial. 2 legit 2 quit. read more

BUYER BEWARE. As much as I love this store, they don't follow their own return policies and won't take a book back if you've opened the book at all. Tom at the front desk said it was "too worn to sell new," where the policy doesn't say anything about a return still needing to be brand new. Obviously if someone can return a book up to 30 days past its buy date it cannot be new quality, it's been used for 30 days. Either Aunties needs to update their policy or actually follow it as written but basically treat all sales as final because they don't issue returns apparently. read more

I love indie bookstores! There is a lot to love about this one...... great selection, good prices and it is in a great historic building. read more

If you are a Spokane native, you grew up with Auntie's around. The smell of the books can literally never be replaced. I love this corner store. The books, the coffee, it is all so PNW. The selection of awesome merchandise and books is incredible. read more

Favorite. Bookstore. Ever. And I love me some bookstores. It's a great place to get yourself lost. The people are friendly and helpful. I've spent more money in there than I probably should have. Uncle's Games is pretty cool, too. read more

Books + Locally Owned = Fantastic. Their staff picks are really good. They have some sort of deal where if you pay for a membership, you get discounts. read more