Anyone can carry good books. It's nice when the store is local, of course, but a bookstore is a bookstore is a bookstore. But three things separate Brookline Booksmith from the faceless corporate giants: the awesome author circuit, the used books section, and the small-circulation/foreign publication rack. I've seen some brilliant writers speak downstairs for freezies, and because of the small venue, you can totally chat them up (unlike at Border's, where I was practically yanked away by security while waiting for an autograph from Gene Wilder.) Check the reading schedule on the website and get ya'self some culture. Also, there is ALWAYS a dog to play with outside. Always. read more

I love to read... but I don't have a library card. It's not because I don't know how to get one; it's because I know myself and I know I'd end up racking up billions of dollars in fines. (That's a joke, friends.) Brookline Booksmith has probably one of the most logical setups for a bookstore I've ever seen. I always have a hard time finding books, because unlike libraries, bookstores don't have a reliable system. These people, however, do a pretty good job. Anyone who knows me, knows I love non-fiction, and that I'll read a memoir before any other non-fiction book first. Those are usually nearly impossible to find, especially because of cross-categorization. There are a few chairs throughout the store. It is no major bookstore, obviously, so you shouldn't sit there and read an entire book and then leave. I have read about 10 pages to a full chapter before deciding on reading a book, because it's easy to sit here and do that. It is also a pretty good place to go to spend time with children. The kids' section isn't huge, but it has a pretty good selection, and it's a good way to instill print awareness and a love of reading in very little kids. I love, love, love this place. They always have the books that are sold out at all the other major bookstores...or even local bookstores with more foot traffic. read more

After you've visited Powell's City of Books in Portland, Oregon, all other bookstores pale in comparison, but this is the best bookstore I've been to in Massachusetts so far. Their buyback table had no line on a Saturday afternoon and they bought back all the books I brought in, even the unknown ones. So that scores big on my yelp monitor. Oh - and I found out about this place buying and trading used books thanks to my fellow yelpers on "Talk". read more

The booksmith has three qualities that make it especially appealing to me: 1. If you look on their website you will see that they are constantly hosting events (mostly readings/signings) at the Coolidge Corner Theatre. While most of them are free, the most I have ever seen one cost is $5! They have some seriously phenomenal and famous authors come in there! In the upcoming months I know that they have Wally Lamb coming, as well as the authors of the new America's Test Kitchen Family Baking Book! 2. The basement of the store is a a used bookstore that is not only very reasonably priced, but gosh-darn-it, they are amazing books down there! I myself am a sucker for biographies, food related book, and travel books, and they are never in short supply of any of those. Every time I go there I have to reason with myself about which ones I actually "need." riiiiight... 3. Upstairs on the main floor, there are RIDICULOUS sale prices on books! Particularly on cookbooks! I mean, CRAZY good prices. I don't even know why I would ever go anywhere else for gift shopping. This place is so money come Christmas time... read more

After Diskovery [see my review], this is my fave bookstore in the city. The staff is very knowledgeable and passionate about books. I've gotten really good recommendations there. They are not just doing their job, they are loving every minute of it. You dont see that very often. I think they should charge me rent, as I spend way too much time there. The book selection is extensive, amazing and unbelievable. They have every possible book you may need. The new books are on the ground floor, the used books are in the basement. I love the basement, I have a soft spot for used books, and I always try to buy used books. They also have a bunch of funky gifts and paper goods. Oh, and they do buy backs, you dont get much $$ back, but enough for lunch at Zatfigs or at least Panera. I wear my I heart Brookline Booksmith button with great joy and pride. read more

I love this bookstore. I could spend hours searching through their massive assortments of styles. Its used and new book collection is magnificent. It also has weekly book readings. I highly advise visiting this shop before you head towards a Barnes and Noble type of establishment. read more

I am amazed that there are actually people (thankfully not many) who give this place less than 5 stars. The Booksmith is the best bookstore in the Metro Boston area. There are always great bargains, interesting titles, insightful & unique staff picks and the independent vibe. As if that's not enough, they also have the Used Book Cellar where you can sell used paperbacks and use the money for store credit or cash. Barnes & Noble up the street may have cheaper prices on best sellers or hardcovers, but the Booksmith will always win my dollar every time. read more

It's a used book junkie's delight. I've stopped off at Coolidge Corner many a time and stopped in the Booksmith just to piss away a few minutes; it usually turns into 15, then 30, then 45, just browsing the shelves. What a great used book selection. I've found a ton of great paperbacks for $1-5 - a couple of James Ellroy tomes, "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco, "Empire Falls" by Richard Russo. I just love finding a great selection in those racks. Any other bibliophiles will love, love this place. Stop in next time you're going over to the Theater or hanging out in Brookline. read more

I don't know what it is about this place but it makes shopping for books just plain wonderful. They don't have lots of comfy chairs or a coffee bar but you just don't want to leave. The space is small but they seem to have every book I've ever wanted. The layout of the stacks and the discount tables ensure that the amount of wanting never diminishes, either. The world needs more book stores like Brookline Booksmith. read more

Booksmith is a top 10 bookstore.....that I have been in. It has both new and used books, including video rentals downstairs. When ever I visit Coolidge Corner, I usually stumble into here to see what is new. I would recommend you do the same. Independent nature and author visits greatly enhance its appeal. read more

My favorite part of the store is the remainders section up front. There's always something interesting, cheap. I haven't had a chance to check out their used book store since the first week it opened, but it was fairly good even then. They have a good selection of new books, as well, and things are very well organized. While I love this book store, my favorite is Harvard Books (Booksellers?) in Harvard Square. However, this is my wife's favorite store, and there's a comic shop down the street, so when we go, it's almost a contest of who can browse the longest. She usually wins. The staff is helpful enough, even when they're super busy. It helps that management seems to staff to proper levels for the crowds. read more

The best bookstore in Boston, bar none. Bookstores are a dying breed. We know that. Amazon and technology have seen to that. But I'm one of those people who loves browsing in bookstores and buying an actual physical book, not a tablet with the book digitally loaded. I love technology, but I draw the line at books. Borders is gone. Sure, there's a Barnes & Noble in the Prudential Center (not to mention BU and Emerson's bookstores), but if you want a huge, excellent selection of new and used books without the corporate stench, Brookline Booksmith is still going strong and shows no signs of slowing down. On the main floor: tons of books, magazines, a small selection of audiobooks, a small and fun area for quirky cards and gift items. Take a walk down to the basement and you'll find an enormous selection of used books. Nestled in the stacks are small cards with various blurbs and recommendations from the store's staff. You can find terrific deals on their bargain tables, as well. I can (and do) spend hours in this place. If it sounds like I'm basically describing your typical bookstore, that's because I am. But they do it so well and truly believe in the philosophy that, when it comes to the dying breed of the bookstore, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." read more

I've loved this place since I was a child- it was always a highlight of visiting the Boston area! They have so many wonderful things, a gorgeous space, and an adorable atmosphere. read more

This is honestly one of my favorite places in Boston. Even my dad loves it - every time he comes to visit from New Orleans he stops in. He even made me buy him a book he remembered seeing in the used books section after he left - he was afraid he wouldn't find such a great treasure back home (it was something about the NY Philharmonic in the early 1900s for $20...). Also, the people who work there are just downright nice. Case in point: I left my ipod and black cableknit gloves there without realized. I had come to terms with it - it could have been worse, it could have been my wallet, phone, etc. Somehow they were able to plug into my ipod, find my name, google-search me and find me on twitter - JUST to return my ipod to me. See, people are still inherently good. I sincerely adore this place. It's always my first stop to get books/used books and greeting cards. read more

It's hard to spend less than an hour in this wonderful little bookstore. Upstairs, selection of new books is plentiful and varied. I love that they post staff reviews on the bookshelves - I've discovered many wonderful books this way. There are amazing deals on new books on the tables in the center of the store. From tea to scarves to jewelry, I always know I can find the perfect gift here in the chachkes section. Heading down the used book cellar...Check out the $1 used book section! I've found so many gems on this little bookshelf. A hardcover copy of Emperor of All Maladies in perfect condition for $1? Yes please. Finally: sell your used books here! The process was super easy. I brought them a pile of paperbacks in decent condition, and they took 80% of them and gave me a store credit for $20. read more

I love local independent bookstores and so far I like Booksmith the best. It has used books in the basement and I was impressed with the selection. A lot of classics, biographies, history, mysteries, and fiction. It's not so crowded that you can't enjoy yourself. There are places to sit down. I like the book displays that they have. I'll be sure to haunt this place. read more

The impulse buy potential here is off the charts. You'll never believe how interesting everything ever published looks when it's laid out on those tables. I've had to limit my visits because I was spending more here on books than I was on food. Note: no used book buying until 11/06. There's only one lady who does it, and she's away. read more

My go to place in the Bean for books on the cheap. I've begun to resent places like Borders and Barnes and Noble because I never feel like I just got a great bargain there. I like to feel like a winner. And bargains = a winner. This is my Boston Strand. The cheese to my macaroni, as Juno said. I love books. I'll admit it. I actually read? Like, aside from the gossip sites that I stalk at work? Yes, I really do. Seriously, SUCH an awesome place, it's hard to get me out of there once I step foot inside. And I feel like they always have awesome sales. BOOKS = A HAPPY SIMONA. read more

What a wonderful bookstore! I love coming here & perusing the aisles of books for my next read. The store features displays of top-selling books, as well as staff picks and new arrivals, which are very useful when searching for your next read. Moreover, the basement of the store contains used books at a discounted price. In addition to books, Brookline Booksmith has a gift area on the first floor, which is filled with all sorts of knick-knacks & unique gifts. The store also puts on talks & readings by authors (you can find a calendar of events on the store's website). If you find yourself in Coolidge Corner with some time to spare, I recommend stopping by Brookline Booksmith. read more

Brookline Booksmith is amazing - I can wander around for hours. I often pick up recent best sellers in the used book section for a decent price and find cool, cute gifts for friends upstairs. They also carry envirosak bags, my favorite reusable shopping bag. And apparently on Sunday evenings, they host a knitting group. read more

In the age of Amazon, I believe that Brookline Booksmith will stand the test of online shopping and serve as a shining beacon of hope for the future of brick and mortar bookstores. This place is a gem in Brookline and totally elevates the Coolidge Corner neighborhood. It's in the perfect location amidst several cafes and isn't even a half block away from the Coolidge Corner T Stop. It has an intimate feel and is set up for people who like to browse whether it's for books, gifts, art supplies, maps, wrapping paper or cards. The one thing I'd wish for in this store is for them to have more comfy chairs to sit and enjoy some of the books! At least downstairs where there's more room. Some chairs are littered here and there but there aren't many. The mugs they sell are freaking awesome - my fave is the prudes to nudes mug (pour hot water in and the clothes disappear off of Michelangelo like figures - hilarious and cheaper in store than online!!) and the dinosaur one is sweet - hot water turns them into fossils. There's a used books section in the basement, which I usually don't explore but my friends love to check it out. They have a great card selection, too! The place has a great community vibe and who wouldn't want to browse through books and get out of the house? While ordering off Amazon can be great, I'd much rather check out books in a bookstore and be able to pick up last minute birthday gifts all in one place. Stop by on a leisurely day for an enjoyable bookstore experience :) read more

With all these bookstores like Borders and B&N slowly fading away, it's fresh to walk into this store and see the life and activity that stands out in this technology-driven generation. I LOVE this local bookstore because they literally are all about books...no Kindles, no tablets, just books and that's what it's all about! They have books of all genres so no worries, you'll be sure to find something that catches your eye! There's not much space to sit down and skim through a book (or study/do work), but it's still an awesome place to just walk around and explore. I personally like looking through the different journals they have because they have some unique bindings, which stick out to me. Also, they have tons of stationary so if you're into that then you can probably find something you like (although, it is little pricey and I'll admit you can get some stuff cheaper online, but there's nothing like walking into a bookstore and writing on those samples papers they leave out in front of the pens/markers and leaving little notes there). They also have a little section up the small ramp where you find creative and unique gifts! I bought my girlfriend a little trinket from here and she loved the simplicity and beauty of it :) If you have time, definitely take some of it and explore this gem in Coolidge Corner and you'll find yourself staying there longer than expected! Note: This is a good spot to wait and kill time if you're waiting to be seated at a restaurant that gives you one of those buzzers (like Zaftigs). read more

I have to say that I am surprised by the lack of variety in the reviews. Surely I can't be the only person who's noticed the pitiful selection in some of the categories in this bookstore? I'm talking in particular about their used section, the history section, and the poetry section. All are woefully inadequate, and quite frankly, the Barnes and Noble down the street does a better job of stocking - in particular the history section. I really want to like this store more than I do. It's independent, and I love having an independent bookstore in my neighborhood, but it really just isn't that good a bookstore. This could change of course - apparently it just needs better read and educated bookstockers - but for now, it's only mediocre. Also, they didn't help their cause any by being completely inefficient about their big Harry Potter release. Making everyone wait in line twice - once to pay, and once to pick up the book? That's ridiculous, and a waste of everyone's time. They should take a few lessons from Curious George goes to Wordsworth about how to do a big production like that right. read more

I am a self-proclaimed bookstore snob, and I adore this place! I've worked in and been in my share of bookstores, but this place really has it all! The basement always has great deals on used books, the staff is friendly and knowledgable, and they have a lot of great, well-known authors come through for readings all the time. Definitely check this place out! And support independent bookstores!!! read more

This place is a great alternative to the Barnes and Noble right down the street. It has a really cute gifts and cards section, and has used books downstairs in the basement. The sections are good-sized--not as big as Barnes and Noble, which is nice because you can actually FIND something. This place is actually bigger than most independent bookstores I've been to, but not so big that it feels like a huge, sterile environment. If you're going book shopping in Coolidge Corner, go here...NOT Barnes and Noble. read more

EXCELLENT book readings, and they have the brilliance to stick the famous authors over at the Coolidge Corner Theater, so you aren't squeezed in between the art books trying to hear Ann Patchett speak. The best part of this book store is the American History section. As an American Studies geek, I have never seen such a beautifully curated collection of books. I have found books I never even knew existed: Books on brothels in 19th century Chicago, books of famous people's letters to their children. . . The recommended books are actually usually dead-on. read more

I really love the Booksmith. It's got a staff that's always willing to help--you might have to track them down in the store though--and the size of it makes me smile. No getting lost among shelves and rows of books you're not interested in! The card/boutique-y area on the north side of the store is wonderful if you have someone you have to buy for, yet don't really know what to get. The used bookstore in the basement has never let me down. I almost always find the title I'm looking for and I would rather buy a used book anyways. The only complaint I do have is their lack of selection at times. Don't get me wrong, I'm totally off-put by the size of most chain book stores--do you really need three stories? No.--But, I am a little sad when I go in and there are so very few of any given section. I can usually find a great fiction there, but specialty books are a little sparse. I have not gone to any of the readings/signings that they constantly have there, but I'm really anxious to try one out. This is a neighborhood gem. Another reason I love living in Brookline! read more

As good as it gets for an independent bookstore offering a decent variety in a small space with a great section for stationary, gifts, and other odds and ends. The basement also includes used books displayed in a neat and orderly fashion where I picked up a copy of The Man Who Ate Everything for $7.50. Brookline Booksmith also regularly holds author signings, readings and events. What is even more impressive is that the Barnes & Noble located a block or two further away form the T is now gone! Great victory for the little guy. If you are in Coolidge Corner, it is a great place to spot in a check out the most current events in the literary world and is filled with intellectuals with a cozy atmosphere. I still remember interviewing staff and the manager for my Organizational Behavior class 5 years ago titling our project as the little bookstore that could. Let's hope they will be just as strong 5 years form now. read more

What a great little bookshop! I love spending an hour or so just looking at all the books they have. They have a great layout of popular books, best sellers, and new fiction/nonfiction. They also have a couple of discounted tables with older books. Downstairs has a plethora of used books. The books are only half off, which if they are brand new isn't a bad deal, but some of them can be rather old and worn down and worth less than half the sticker price. You can't complain though because it's a great selection in it's own right. They regularly have a of authors and lecturerers come to speak. I haven't attended any, but from what i've seen it looks like they have a good crowd coming to them. read more

This place provides everything you could want from a book store. Wide selection, seating area, and even a whole floor of used (discounted) books on the lower level. There is also a children's area, brightly decorated and featuring toys and seating. Great place. read more

I love to support local places for the most part, and I love browsing here. The problem is that the selection is SO limited. I usually can not find what I am looking for. The magazine selection is even more sparse than the books. They have a great section for gifts, and fun little toys, and the video section downstairs seems to have some great movies to choose from. The staff is usually pretty pleasant and helpful. read more

I would give this place a million stars if I could. It's THAT awesome. First of all, you should always try to support the independents (and don't bring your mom in if she's going to start yelling, "I think I can get this cheaper on Amazon!!" yeah.) BUT, the Booksmith is really no more expensive than other brick and mortar stores. Plus, they have amazingggg bargain books. Tons of them. And that's not even to say anything about their huge collection of used books. The Brookline Booksmith also has a totally cute little gift shop. I bought one of my friends a pair of earring for her bday and though it seemed a little odd that I bought her earrings in a gift shop, she loved them! And some of my other friends went write to the Booksmith to buy them as well! Also obviously a fan of the authors the Booksmith brings in. Seriously, I feel like one of the luckiest people everrr because of how close I live to this place. Yeah, I agree some of the elitist customers and the store's propaganda can piss me off sometimes, but it's all about the books for me. And Brookline Booksmith gets that 100% right! read more

Fantastic. True to its reviews! I went to Brookline Booksmith today because of the reviews on Yelp, it truly is a hidden gem of a book store. Now a days with big named chain stores you rarely see an independent shop standing on its own two feet, this was a treat. The place was packed, the staff very knowledgeable and the shelves were FULL. They had everything from art supplies to journals, best sellers to no name authors, I simply fell in love. My favorite part? The $5 book table. (Not to mention the cellar is packed full of used books!) Some of their full price items were a bit spendy but if you take the time to hunt, wonder and search you may find something fun and unexpected. They even have signed copies of books from authors that stopped by the shop on their book tour. (Priced just the same as an unsigned copy) This is now my favorite book store, I most certainly will be back! read more

A diamond in Brookline. I am glad there is this wonderful bookstore in our neighborhood. One can find new or used books. It feels great to be inside and browse books. Every time I pass by I cannot resist. read more

I love this place! It's a small local bookstore but definitely a must-visit if you are in the area. During my pas couple years of stay in Boston, I really enjoy reading books in this bookstore. You can always find books you want in the bargain section, which will cost you from $3-$8. And the staffs are extremely friendly and knowledgeable. More than half of the books I have so far is from this bookstore. And it doesn't hurt my wallet too much.... :-) read more

As a conscientious consumer of books, I attempt to support independent bookstores at all times. In the Boston area Booksmith is my seller of choice. Their staff is friendly and useful, they have both a checkout area and a well labeled information kiosk with an actual person to help you. Children's, travel, travel writing, fiction, graphica, history, and my personal favorite, staff recommendations all make appearances. New releases for both fiction and non are located towards the front of store. And that's just upstairs. Downstairs is a used bookshop and area for author appearances. Of all the bookstores in the Boston area, Booksmith always seems to have the authors that I actually want to go see. My one complaint is selection. Booksmith tries to cater to everyone, which can mean they don't have what you want. But if you just need a book and not something specific, Booksmith is where you should be. read more

I love this place-especially their bargain books table. I'm an unused book junkie but find it too expensive to keep my habit-so I pick up a few $4 books and I'm good for a couple of weeks. The choices are quite broad and sometimes it's hit or miss, but overall worth it. I've not shopped there for newer, best sellers so I can't help you on that. read more

OY. This place always gets me super self-indulgent. The lectures are tops, I've met some really cool old people in the basement, and it's awesome to hang at a locally-owned book store. This place is a cornerstone of Coolidge and a mainstay in my crazy little adventures in that neck of the woods. Several cheers for Booksmith, live long and prosper, stay bangerang etc. etc. etc. read more

I've spent probably, literally hundreds of hours in the Booksmith since I moved to Boston. I've used this place as a meet-up spot, as a rainy-day outing, as a place to buy last minute gifts, and, last but not least, as a fabulous place to buy books. The used book cellar is great - large and well-organized, and welcoming. But my favorite part is the sale tables right up front - books for $5.00? Sign me up. Perfect day: book from the Booksmith; take-out lunch from one of the restaurants on Harvard St.; sit on the grass at the Devotion School, read, eat, be merry. read more

One of the best bookstores in the Northeast-- like something you'd find in New Haven on the Yale Campus. Great selection, great prices, rude and arrogant staff-- but that's expected in an independent isn't it? Best of all-- no horrible Carly Simon music blaring on the stereo like they used to have at Borders. Great selection of used books downstairs and they've even branched into e-book sales. This place took on Barnes and Noble and actually kicked 'em out of town. I like that. Great place-- right across the street from the Coolidge Corner Theater. read more