I cannot say enough wonderful things about Renee! There have been days where I have walked into her shop and said, I want a beach read, or something historical, and my favorite a mystery. Renee always has a recommendation and they are always good reads. My family loves her shop and the joy of going to a local bookstore is such a joy! read more

Great selection and very nicely prepared to receive customers during COVID times. Go Books on B!

I love this store!, if the world had more Renee's (the owner) I truly believe it would be a better place. She is so kind and knowledgeable. Everyone is treated like an old friend instead of a customer. If they do not have the book you are looking for they will get it post haste, so have a little patience and stop giving Jeff Bezos more money he doesn't need it... If more small businesses operated with the same mentality there would be more of them. So do yourself and your local economy a favor and help support this amazing bookstore. read more

Books on B rules! I humbly think the City of Hayward--namely its downtown area--is a better place because of this beautiful gem of a bookstore. For a petite-sized store its selection consistently packs a punch--and I've bought books from here in various genres. Renee keeps a solid, diverse selection of classics and books of the zeitgeist. And Renee is a treasure to the community. She is truly a character. To boot, as a bookstore owner, she is always exceedingly knowledgeable, eager to help, and delightfully warm and quirky. In its own eclectic way, Books on B is a quintessential neighborhood bookstore in the very best way, and we're lucky to have one here in this part of the East Bay. read more

My first visit and it was a delight. I will definitely be back after I get through the six books I purchased! Friendly and helpful owner. Inviting shelves of books, a nice mix of new and old books, a nice mix of genre and topic. What a joy. read more

One of the best book shops I have been to! Reneé is the sweetest! If I can't find a book, Reneé is always able to get me a copy. Beautiful store! read more

Let me add the Renee's 5 star review list. This book shop is a jewel in downtown Hayward. Books on B proves that human intervention is something to be valued. One can't find Renee's warmth and humor online. Plus, when I couldn't find what I'm looking for, she will order it for me! This literal 'brick and mortar' establishment is to be treasured. Woohoo! read more

I was shopping for Christmas presents online and I realized that rather than buying the books online, I should go support local businesses instead and try to become a member of my new town (I recently moved to Hayward). I stepped inside and saw some of the latest books from NYT and WSJ best seller lists, stacks of used books on a table by the register and shelves that were partially filled with books. No real markings of genre on so I meandered around the store while listening to conversations between the patrons and shopkeeper. Through eavesdropping I learned that the store had been recently acquired (which answered the question about the partially empty shelves), bookmarks are free, the shopkeeper is happy and loves what she does and that she'll order books for you if they don't have it in store. I found everything I was looking for and then some which made me feel good about contributing to the local economy. With a stack of books in my arms, I made my way to the register to pay. Renee, the shopkeeper, is exactly who you want to buy books from. Renee is an avid lover of books and has been in the business for over a decade. She definitely knows her stuff. On a whim, she took over the aging bookstore to ensure that Hayward has a place to go for books and not see another bookstore close and the books wasted away. We talked about how she decided to buy the store, even though she business acumen is low but her love is strong. Business can always be learned but to have a love for what you do cannot be acquired so easily. Please support local businesses and strike up a chat, you will be feeding your soul in more ways than one... a feeling that the internet cannot give you. read more

Renee is the amazing soul behind Hayward's downtown bookstore! I remember feeling dejected when The Book Shop announced its closure some years ago, only to become excited when Renee successfully opened Books on B thanks to an incredible crowdfunding effort! I love coming in here to browse the new and used books and chat with our lovely bookstore owner. I frequently find something I need to add to my or my son's library when I visit, or think of a book(s) I need to order. If you live in or near Hayward and want to support an independent bookstore, Books on B is the place to go! You can also support Books on B by purchasing digital audiobooks through Libro.FM and ebooks through My Must Reads - I use both! There is something for everyone here, so if you're in between books and need some inspiration, go on down to Books on B. read more

Renee is a marvelous book steward along with being a genuinely good person. Her Indiegogo campaign for the new Books On B store was well-run and well-funded because her community supports her new endeavor whole-heartedly. I can't wait for you to open, Renee, I will go to no other bookstore and my "must have" list is as long as my arm! EDIT: Books on B's first day of business is Saturday September 30, from 9 AM to 1 PM. *does dance* read more

Stopped by today to pick up a KJV bible. The lady at the counter was so helpful and informative. I was pressured to buy anything additional to what I was looking for. Such a cute book store I will definitely come back again foiu read more

Renee is the sweetest lady. She's always so helpful. I can never go into the bookstore without buying more than one book. This last time I went with my husband, we bought a couple books for him, for our daughter, as well as for myself. There's books for everyone, don't miss out!! read more

Nice staff, good selection (almost always have what I'm looking for), and easy parking. Support your local bookstore and grab some knowledge or diversion! read more

Bookstores are all about great curation. There's a great selection of books, so your next great read (or another to add to your backlog) is going to be here. If not, you can ask Renee (who is so cool) to help you find what you're looking for. Books on B! read more

Finally BOOKS are back in business on B st. I love that we have our own little bookstore right here in downtown Hayward. Since the bookshop closed all you have to do is look across the street and voila Books on B! Renee is also amazing and the perfect person to own a bookstore on B st. She will get you the book you need and always has a way of making you feel good when you speak with her. Please stop by and say hello and of course find yourself something to read. I will shop here for years to come, oh yeah, the kids love it too. There are some chairs inside as well so you can peruse the books you want to buy. Love it, love it. read more

Renee is a fantastic book store owner and all around really nice person. I sold books there for a small amount of money but I knew my books were in good company! The store's layout makes me feel like I'm in a treasure chest and I don't know what I'll find next. I bought used books from her, and they are all reasonably priced. I want to go back often because she seems to have a good eye for taking in interesting used books. While in the store, multiple people came in and she knew them all by name. It felt like a real local bookstore where the community really matters! read more

Amazing book store perfectly run by an amazing staff has anything you need if they don't they will get it for you completely got me off amazon I go to them with all my book needs and for a great connection please cannot stress this enough give books on B a shot read more

This place is small but has everything you need. The staff are extremely warm and welcoming with prices that are very affordable. I don't live in hayward but would be willing to come back just for more books. read more

We love Books on B! This is my kids all time favorite book store! Rene is the sweetest and she will always help us find the books we are looking for! read more

I happened on this place while on a walk with my 2 year old daughter. This store has a great selection for all ages. We left with 3 books, and I'm already holding off on any more amazon purchases so I can go grab them at Books on B! read more

The nicest thing about this place is that you are always welcome and the owner always goes out of her way to make sure you are taken care of. I've ordered from her and received the book within days, and I have also been able to walk in and get exactly what I want. The knowledge and courtesy extends to all who walk through her doors. You may be an Amazon shopper, but that just means you don't support mom&pops and just want your money to go to billionaires. If you're that type of person, it doesn't matter, you're not even bothering to read this review in the first place. read more

A thoughtful selection of books, new and used. I prefer reading into a book before buying rather than ordering online. It's satisfying to brows in a real book store taking time to leaf through the pages pondering and geting ideas and inspiration. They always answer my emails and can order any book into stock. Sometimes authors have readings and book signing events. It's really great to have a book store in the Hayward Castro Valley area! read more

This shop is fairly new to the community but when you walk in it really feels like coming home. It is so warm and inviting and the awesome owner, Renee, makes everyone feel as if they are a dear old friend. Not only is the vibe great, the book selection is too. If you are looking for something specific and they don't already have it on the shelves, Renee can get it for you, lickity split. I asked about the BabyLit series and she had it on the self within 2 days! Today we stopped in a little before close and we were greeted with so much love. We picked up 2 of those BabyLit books plus 2 other wonderful new books for my son's growing little library. When we left to grab dinner up the street I thought to myself, how lucky is Hayward to have such this local treasure!? I am so glad to live just a short drive away. read more

This is what a community book store feels like. Renee is amazing. A friend recommended this bookstore for my self-published book and a community relationship took off from there. read more

Books on B - Bookstores Near Me - Hayward, California

I've been a frequent visitor since the old book shop was located across the street. I love the warm and inviting atmosphere of the new Books on B. There are many interesting and quirky finds. I enjoy perusing whenever I'm in the area, or simply just to sit down in one of the chairs to relax and soak in the environment. There is a lovely community of visitors that frequent this bookstore, and the owner, Renee, makes it all the more enjoyable! I'm so glad I have a local bookshop like this in my hometown. read more

Love love Books on B! Renee has always been such a sweetheart to me and my wife when we come in. It's always good to find bookworms stores that are more concerned with the customers than the bottom line. I had a book to buy my wife recently, which had sold out pretty much everywhere, and while I was working I called and Renee had let me know they had 1 left! I asked if she could hold it for me and I would drop by after work to pick it up... well the day ran away with me and I ended up being late, but she stayed there after hours to wait for me to come get the book. She really didn't have to, but it's just the kind of person she is. That alone is enough to keep us returning time and again. B's on B is the kind of local business people need to be supporting in this time! read more

Renee is awesome. I always come here for my books when I need them. Renee always has what I am looking for. If she doesn't have it in stock, she will order it up for you! Local is best!!!!!! read more

It's been awhile....I should go more often. I love this place! Great selection of books! Always very inviting! One of the many gems in downtown Hayward! read more

Great spot to chill and read Near my neighborhood One of my families favorites place to shop for a new read. I am glad Books On B are back read more

I feel I must share with everyone out there what I encountered on a phone call - last Saturday, 2/24/18, @ 5:09pm with "Renee". I called the bookstore, knowing it was after hours, but assumed there'd be an answering machine to leave a message, or speak with someone pertaining to the process of bringing in books for the store's consideration. I let the phone ring about 8 times, waiting for the machine to click on, when the other person at the end answered, "I'M ONLY ANSWERING THE PHONE BECAUSE I CAN'T STAND THE PHONE RINGING ANYMORE; YOU'RE CALLING AFTER HOURS, WE'RE CLOSED, THIS IS BOOKS ON B, RENEE SPEAKING, HOW MAY I HELP YOU?!@#" Stunned, I paused and replied, "WOW, Renee, I'm sorry, did you have a rough day?" Renee responded in her best Sweet n' Low voice with, "NO I ACTUALLY HAD A FABULOUS DAY! HOW MAY I HELP YOU?" I told Renee she could've fooled me by the manner in which she responded, which she found acceptable, so after I inquired about store hours, I concluded the call thinking that if Renee runs this store, there must be a deficiency in my knowledge of acceptable phone etiquette. Renee, If you don't want the phone to ring after store closing, you have two options, either answer it after the 1st ring, or consider the purchase of an answering machine. read more

This -IS- the bookstore you remember... even if you haven't been here before! Renee has put together a nicely curated collection which will appeal to the many of us who believe there is life beyond 140 character messages. She is not just a bookseller... but a book advisor, both towards furthering your own interests, or for a gift to someone whose friendship you value. The Hayward BART + Bus terminal is just a few walk-able blocks down B Street, and angle-in downtown parking is available right in front and nearby. There are coffee houses, bistros. and restaurants all around the area. Enjoy! read more

When I heard the book shop was closing, I was so sad since I had just discovered it. But lol and behold, my aunt (who lives in SF, btw) sends me the article that says Books on B was popping up across the street! I asked to volunteer if Renee needed help, and so I often come on weekends. I always enjoy my time in the store -- from Renee's incredible stories and puns, to the friendly faces that come by and share their updates! Love the atmosphere and the people; Renee helped me get more into reading too :) Power to independent bookstores like this one! read more

This is a great local bookstore. It is my first stop whenever I search for a book. If it's not in stock they will find it. They carry a broad cross cultural collection of literature from all genres. I'm never disappointed. Even with the limitations caused by Covid-19, I am able to attain the books I want. I support this locally owned bookstore rather than corporate bookstores with complete satisfaction. Books on B in downtown Hayward is a local treasure. read more

I can't express how much I truly appreciate this store. So much is lost in shopping for books online or in big corp stores. It is so refreshing to find a place that reminds one that part of the true joys in reading is discovering. Renee has a passion for books and a wealth of information. She takes the time to consider what your interests are and guides you to things you might not have even known about. She has a wonderful ability to read her customers' tastes and knows exactly what to recommend. She'll go through extensive searches to find a special book that you've been looking for. You know, when you leave, that your interests have been attended to by someone who shares your passion for literature. Also, she's efficiently modified her business to still handle her patrons' needs during this pandemic while observing social distancing practices making you feel both safe and attended to. Such a great business for Hayward. read more

I AM SO HAPPY THIS BOOKSTORE AND THE FANTASTIC WOMAN WHO NOW OWNS IT IS BACK OPEN!! Sorry for the all-caps, I'm just that excited. This is truly a gem of a place...please everyone, go support it! We want local bookstores to stay open! There's nothing like browsing shelves of books, great music in the background...the bookseller able to give you great recommendations based on what you like. They also buy your used books too...double bonus! read more

Got a little sneak preview of Renee's new digs and it is going to be my new favorite place to be...it's lovely, with ample parking just 20 steps away. Nothing better than a book store! Need a good book to read, go see Renee! read more

This store is great. Renee is great. She's intelligent, warm, excited about the written word, and always happy to help you. There's plenty of books to whet your appetite. The store is well organized, clean, and cute. Such a gem for downtown Hayward. Renee has years of experience working in the old Book Store that closed a while back. She can direct you to many books to fit what you're looking for. If you can't find the exact book you're looking for, she's well versed in literature and can always give suggestions for something similar or order what you want. I went in there to grab a book for my honeymoon. I came out with multiple books that I'm excited to read. Read one already. I loved it. Now I'm excited to read the others she suggested for me. Renee is a hard worker and this little store is so deserving of all the success in the world. Please support this business. read more

Books on B is the best little bookstore! I love that places like this still exist. The owner Renee is absolutely amazing and provides the kind of customer service that is hard to find these days. What a wonderful little shop that is definitely worth a visit! read more

My new favorite place. The store is perfect and Renee's energy is contagious. I really enjoy spending time here and love the history and story behind the book store (just ask Renee!). It's a special place to be, and if you're inside long enough you'll run into a wonderful community of people searching for their next read, a gift, or just there to say hello and lend a friendly hand. A true Hayward gem. read more

By far the most upbeat and radiant bookstore owner I've ever had the pleasure to deal with. Renee is absolutely wonderful!