They always have what I am looking for and the staff is so helpful and knowledgeable.

Looking for a local bookstore with bookslinger recommendations, unique cards created by local artists and a plethora of stickers and patches? This is it! This place is in the heart of downtown Bremerton and is owned and operated by diverse bibliophiles who leave notes all around the shop shelves describing the books! However, you'll find more than books here in a place that has something for ALL ages. There are patches, buttons and stickers tucked all around in nooks and crannies with a wide variety of colors and messages. Also, they have toys, stationary, book accessories and even plants! You need to experience this place to understand the wonder of how lucky we are to have a shop like this in our own Bremerton read more

Ballast Book Company - Adventure awaits! - Bookstores Near Me - Bremerton, Washington

As a local author, published by an indie publisher, my husband and I absolutely LOVE finding and supporting independent bookstores. So, we were delighted to discover this little gem in downtown Bremerton on a recent visit to the area, and we thoroughly enjoyed exploring the small space. While it is a wee bit cramped, we found the books and other products to be very well curated, and we were happy to take a few treasures home with us. We look forward to another visit soon. Pro-Tip: If you have the time, peruse the "other" offerings in this space, as there are some really fun surprises to be found :) read more

I was shopping for a new book for my best friend's birthday and wasn't sure what to pick. I chatted with the bookseller and they helped me find the perfect gift. My friend loves the book. The booksellers at Ballast are friendly and helpful and very passionate about books! The minute you step in you are greeted and feel welcome. Their selection is awesome! I did feel a little overwhelmed by how big their selection was because I didn't quite understand how the books were arranged but the booksellers helped me to find what I was looking for. 10/10! read more

I stopped in one day on a work trip to look for local authors. It was suggested I try Katee Robert and I'm so happy with that suggestion! I am now on her 3rd book and have read both novellas in the Dark Olympus series. I also got 3 kids books by local authors to bring home. I will be visiting again when I come back for work! read more

Cute little bookstore in downtown Bremerton. While the shop is on the smaller side, they have a pretty cool selection of independent titles and some discounted pre-owned options as well. I liked that they had different recommendations and features from other book buffs across the social channels and they carried a few signed editions if that's your thing. Besides books, they have some unique items that make great gifts, including a rack of socks from Sock It to Me from Portland, a small selection of educational toys and more. Definitely worth a stop if you're just cruising the downtown area, you never know what you might find! read more

While the selection is a little on the limited side since it's a small store, I saw plenty of gems along with cute gifts and friendly service. If you spend a certain amount apparently you get a free drink at the cafe across the way. read more

The cutest little book store with an amazing selection! The staff was friendly and helpful. Multiple customers came in to pick up book orders while I was there, it's obviously a popular local place, which I love. I'll definitely be back very soon! read more

We drove from Issaquah to Bremerton to visit this small bookstore. You know....because everyone tells us we should support the small businesses struggling from the pandemic. May 12th was the end of the mask mandate ordered by Governor Jay Inslee. As we prepared to walk into Ballast Bookstore (mask less because...you know...the mask mandate had ended) when a young lady sitting behind the counter told us we needed to put on masks. I said, has we turned to leave, "ok...I guess we shall not buy any books". As I exited the store two couples standing in the entrance to the building that Ballast Books is located and both couples said "that's what we told them". So...6 people (also known as CUSTOMERS) left the book store. I can't speak for the other two couples but we ended up at Kitsap Mall and the Barnes & Noble where we spent a total of $212.67. Ballast Books clearly has the right to enforce a nonexistent mask mandate but to have the right to spend my money elsewhere. read more

Best Little Book Store Ever!! I happened into Liberty Bay Books in Bremerton by accident today and I was delighted! This quaint little book store has so much to offer! I only had a brief amount of time to spend, but was able to find 2 books that I hadn't even been able to find at the big box book store. I love shopping small and was very happy to be able to get the books there. The staff person was amazing, too. I wish I had gotten her name, but in my excitement of finding the books I kind of forgot. I only have a few days left in the area, but I seriously want to go back to Liberty Bay Books before I leave. read more

I lived down the street and enjoyed this bookstore very much. It's encouraging to have a local independent bookstore over the mega store chains. Friendly service and recommendations are very helpful. read more

I'm an addict. I love books. I need books. I bounce between ebooks and my kindle and the smell, feel, and realness of paper books. Liberty is a slice of heave for all book addicts. They even have staff favorite shelves and apparently Nathanael has awesome taste - that match mine. Clean and organized shelves, friendly and helpful staff, immediately across the hall from a comfy coffee shop. Go! Indulge! Buy! Read! read more

I have adored your store for years, and especially love Markie. People in our close-knit community have been telling me that they're upset about the political references in your shop display window facing Pacific Ave, so I just went for a walk to see. Sure enough, these people were correct, you do. BLM, Kamala Harris, and Ruth Ginsberg are all displayed. I realize that this is your personal right to do so, but I wonder if this is business suicide? As a business owner myself, that would be alienating half my guests. I'm concerned because I truly care about your shop, as well as Downtown Bremerton thriving, especially in these precarious times. I encourage you to take critical thought on this matter. Warmly, Your neighbor read more

As good as a small city bookstore can get, and one hopes Bremerton appreciates and supports this resource.

Love the selection of new books here! A little bit of everything and whatever they don't have, they can order in usually less than a week. Great suggestions as well! Lots of random gifts too and cards. read more

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Visited Ballast Book's during the pandemic. What a lovely shop! The staff of one was so helpful & engaging. It's wonderful when you meet someone who loves what they do and exudes that love and enthusiasm. Thank you for a wonderful visit. read more

Thank you for coming downtown!! My favorite spot to go for birthday gifts. Friendly staff! Love it!

What is there left to say about a bookstore of this quality? I never have a bad experience when shopping here. The staff is always more than helpful. I'm really only speaking of Kate, she is just wonderful! Always ready to take the time to listen to my likes and dislikes, eager to suggest books that fit both! She always hits the mark! Suzanne is just a dream when it comes to bookstores. Rating this establishment 5/5 is a no brainier!! If you're looking for a wonderful book buying experience, just ask for Kate! She's the top employee in my eyes. Liberty Bay Books, it's my only choice for local bookstores; make it yours. read more