What a wonderful bookshop and the store owner was a pleasure to converse with. You can hear his passion for books in his voice. Anyway, we had planned a weekend trip to Carlsbad and searched for used bookstores in the area and Farenheit came up. So glad we stopped in and were able to walk out with a few books. Many vintage finds for all you collectors. Look closely and carefully as there are so many nooks and crannies in the shop where hidden gems can be found. You can find art books to cookbooks to history books. Please note that the shop's lease for this location is up soon. If you and anyone know of a space in Carlsbad Village, please contact the store owner Philip. He and this community deserve to have a bookstore. We are never too old or too young to learn. Grab a book and enjoy a good read! Lookout for the bargain books! And I loved the music played during our shopping experience, French jazz, which set the mood for our lunch in a local French cafe. Support this small business and stimulate the local economy and our brains! read more

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I love all used bookstores. I may not love all of them equally but I still love them. Anytime I can buy books at significantly lower prices, count me in. This is a small shop but they've probably got something that will catch your interest. I bought a fat history book (no, not a book about the history of fatties, come on, now) for 1/3rd the normal price. And it is in perfect condition. I also appreciated the notes throughout the store encouraging the reading of banned books. Seems an appropriate message given the name of the bookshop. Plenty of free street parking in the area. read more

Farenheit 451 Books - Outside the front entrance. - Bookstores Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Enjoyed a day trip to Carlsbad to relax at the beach and visit a friend. I looked up nearby bookstores and knew I must ensure I stopped here. At Fahrenheit 451 Books, there are so many cool finds, first editions, classic film prints, old bindings, intellectual quotes... A place after my own heart! I only had a few minutes to peruse, although I could easily have spent hours looking about. I managed to find 3 things that piqued my interest (although with more time, my haul would have quadrupled!): - Old school cassette audiobook of T.S. Eliot's "Four Quarters" read by none other than Ted Hughes! Wow! - Peter Abelard's "The Story of My Misfortunes" - An old library copy of Lang's "Ballad of Books" I look forward to visiting when I'm next in town! read more

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This was such a great bookstore run by someone who really knew about books. The store is officially closed, but Philip is still engaged in the book selling business. Give him a call at (760) 518-3771 if you're looking for something special. read more

Unfortunately, the business is now closed but was treated with nothing but respect and professionalism when it was still open. Amazing selection and priced fairly. Will miss a great bookstore in North County. read more

I'm sad this place is closed! I purchased the first part of the Lord of the Rings books here and meant to return and buy the second part. The owner was very helpful with recommendations. read more

Such a great place to stop by if you're in town. There are clearance books up front, as well as paintings by local artists for sale. The space can feel a bit cramped if there's a lot of people but they have a lot of gems and classic authors. The pricing is written on the inside flap of the book if not already labeled. read more

I will give this place four stars but I was kind of disappointed. Definately has high quality used and rare books but the selection is not as big as some reviews were leading me to believe. Prices were also very very high. For what it is I think it's a winner but it didn't fill my needs. If you are looking for volume of inventory subtract a star. Otherwise give it a shot! read more

A nice find! On vacation here and hubby had been looking for a new Bible. Really didn't want to order online. He wanted to have it in his hands and feel the pages etc. Well I saw this place but told him I think it's only used and vintage books but I was wrong! He found the perfect new Bible (they only had a couple) and he couldn't be happier! Will go back again! read more

I'm sure this is a great place. It was busy and had lots of people inside. I knocked it down a star because I could not understand the logic behind how it was organized. I love going into used bookstores but this one was small and confusing to me. It was random and, at least when I went, there was not a huge selection I love that art is also sold - that was neat to browse. read more

went with my boyfriend and loved it. the owner was very nice and fun to talk to. very helpful locating things we were looking for. i'll be sad to see this place go. read more

This review is long overdue. Before moving to Carlsbad, my fiancé and I would make a stop every time we were in town. The owner has always made us feel welcome and has always, without a doubt, been extremely knowledgeable in whichever genre we were interested in. I am happy to say we are now Carlsbad residents because we quickly fell in love with the city's charm and might I add, this business played a role in making us feel so welcomed. If you're in the area, please make a stop and even a purchase if you're able. This store is so well deserving of our money and will make any bookworm feel like home the second they step foot. read more

So glad we stopped in! What a great book store. Married to a book lover, I've been to several book stores but this one was top of the charts. The collection was vast, including very old books carefully bagged for preservation and newer favorites. We didn't plan to buy anything so mostly we just walked around. However, an older series of historical books caught my husband's eye. They were books his parents had long ago started collecting. He remembered reading them with fondness. My husband asked the owner about them and he pulled another from the back. They were so well priced, we walked out with all of them. While buying them, the owner shared tidbits that demonstrated quite a depth of knowledge about the books. It's obvious he's both a book lover and scholar. We are on vacation but next time we're in town, we will be back!! read more

SAN DIEGO BOOKSHOP ROAD TRIP. Stop #02. SHOP NAME / LOCATION: Fahrenheit 451 / 325 Carlsbad Village Dr, Ste B-1, Carlsbad, CA REVIEW: I found the shop to be well organized, easy to navigate, spotlessly clean, properly lit, and run buy a knowledgeable owner who was all too willing to find what I was seeking. The store smelled like books ... True book fanatics get that. I don't need Glade air fresheners, potpourri or aromatherapy candles ... I just need books. The music that filled the air was extremely pleasant which complimented everything else perfectly. Note: With each of the things that I noted in the previous paragraph, I have over the years found the exact opposite in other places. Don't be shocked. It is a fact.. a sad fact but, a fact nonetheless. PRICING: A few things may have been on the high end of the pricing scale but, for the most part I was satisfied with the prices marked on the items that I purchased. ROADTRIP JOURNAL: When you arrive at this location, one of the first things you'll notice will be the signs on the outside of the door that tell you which items you cannot bring into the store. The one that probably hurts most of us is the cell phone restriction. In any business other than bookstores and any store I need to make or look at checklists, this is far from being a problem. Especially, when signs can been seen prior to entering. This only hurts me in THIS store because I have started to catalog my book collection on LibraryThing dot com. SIDE NOTE: The best part about the Library Thing app is that you can add every last detail that is contained within the book (or DVDs or CDs) . Then when you get to the store, you can open up the app and check your inventory. I find it extremely frustrating when I repurchase a book I already have. Especially, if I'm on a road trip and cannot return it for a credit the next day. Fortunately for me, I presented my dilemma in a very polite fashion to the proprietor, who observed my passion and granted me the requested permission (just keep in mind that if you are a regular Yelp user, do consider that you represent a community. This isn't a solo venture of you versus the world and a little bit of simple polite consideration usually yields the most desired results). So, with full access to my collection I delightfully perused the shelves and found my gems. Unbeknownst to me, the true gift of my newly granted freedom wasn't for my large Shakespeare collection but, for my (Walter) Black's Readers Service collection (I added 2 units) as well as my Mark Twain Library of America collection (I added one unit, with slipcase). DID I SAY SHAKESPEARE?: Yes, I am focused on collecting all kinds of Shakespeare. Mostly volumes that center on criticism and authorship. I am not a stiff board, as I also delight in novelty items, whether it be the action figures I picked up at the Folgers Library or simple gifts from my friends, such as, pins, buttons, miniature bars of pleasantly fragrant soaps and the like. Here at Fahrenheit 451, I found an out of print pop-up book. Some might venture to call it a kid's book but, I beg to differ. The book which was sealed in plastic, making it so that the owner, Phil, had not even read it.. So, prior to departing, I did the right thing... I took the time to unwrap the packaging and present it to Phil, so that he could look through it. I want all to know that if one thing could be said about me when I purchase a book, it is that no matter if I purchase one or a hundred and one ... no one gets the read the book until I do. So, if you want to borrow book number 101 you need to wait for me to read all the rest. We all have our stipulations and this is just one of mine. For me to present the book to Phil, first, was my way of saying thank you for allowing me to use my phone.Of course, he couldn't have known that because he doesn't know the rules of my library but, that's what it was. Thanks Phil, sincerely ( & I know you read Yelp). PURCHASES: Historical Romances (with slipcover) by Mark Twain; Library of America. The Works of Walter Pater; Black's Readers Service. The Works of Samuel Pepys; Black's Readers Service. York Notes on Coriolanus by William Shakespeare; Longman Literature Guides, 1989. Shakespeare and the Solitary Man by Janette Dillon; Rowman & Littlefield Publication, First edition, 1981. All the World's a Stage, William Shakespeare: A Pop-up Biography; Chronicle Books, 1999. FINAL GRADE: A ROADTRIP NOTES: Previous Shop: Lhooq. Next Shop: DG Wills Bookstore San Diego Bookstore Roadtrip, stop #02... "IN THE BOOKS" read more

Farenheit 451 Books - Bookstores Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Called to ask a couple questions about their store and whoever answered the phone was insanely rude. Never let me finish a question, cut me off 3 or 4 times. Didn't want to answer my questions. Made me feel stupid for asking simple questions. I will never go to the store. Bummer read more

Love this little book store! The owner is incredibly kind and great at making suggestions! Also, all of the used books are in GREAT condition and reasonably priced. Definitely returning! read more

We adore this little store. My wife has a book collecting bug for which there is no cure, but Fahrenheit 451 is the proper medicine to keep her malady in check. So consequently this shop has become a regular stop when we visit Carlsbad. The store is very clean, organized and comfortable for extended browsing. The fun thing about this store is you never really know what you might discover. When we're in bookstores such as this we tend to gravitate to the much older books (which there are plenty) but they do carry an assortment of newer books as well. We found the owner to be quite knowledgeable about his inventory, very friendly and helpful. He's always bringing in fresh inventory, which in turn keeps us popping in to see what he has this time. Highly recommended for book lovers of all ages. read more

Farenheit 451 Books - Bookstores Near Me - Carlsbad, California

We wandered in to this tidy used bookstore because we were drawn in by the name and by the discounted books on their patio. We love book stores, and this one is well organized and easy to navigate, with the classics in plastic slip covers. We found a couple of good books and said the magic words to get our Yelp discount. We enjoyed talking with the owner for awhile and then strolled back to our hotel. The friendly owner chased us two blocks to hand us the 10% Yelp discount. A very pleasant experience indeed! read more

Farenheit 451 Books - Patio - Bookstores Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Quick Points to Consider: Pros * Clean, tidy store that is well organized * Location, the store is in the Carlsbad Village area and easy walking distance from hotels and other stores * Friendly inviting atmosphere * Hundreds of titles, many of which are out of print, vintage hard to find, and / or rare * The section up front by the counter has many 1st editions * All genres and interests are represented Cons * Their website is very sparse and only serves as an introduction to the store. I know this is intentional as a personal philosophy by the owner (which I support 100%); however, in today's world, the lack of an interactive website and SEO is a deterrent to some folks and probably doesn't help to draw in visitors from outside the area and / or country. * The staff consists of just one person, which is a good thing and bad. I'm sure being the only staff member has lots of unique complications that keep life interesting. Overview: Farenheit 451 Books has been one of my favorite bookstores for many years and I have found a number of great gems hidden away on its shelves. The store is well organized broken up by interest: art, poetry, fiction, etc. Their shelves always have a variety of hard to find editions including old pulp Sci-Fi magazines - I'm never quite sure what I'll find when I walk through the door. For several years now, I've been directing folks to the store whenever I'm asked by visitors or friends where to go to find a good book in North County. The owner is very knowledgeable and friendly and is always interested in chatting about books. As a side note, if you are out in the Carlsbad village area and decide to stop by, keep in mind that there is no food or drink allowed inside the store. However, there are several tables just outside and one inside near the door where you can leave your drinks if you have any. read more

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Super cute little book store in Carlsbad. I bought 3 books here. It's fun shopping here because they have a great assortment of books from all genres. They have rare hard to find books. I really enjoyed it here. They don't have a big kids book collection but what they do have are kids classics like Nancy Drew, Little Golden Books, etc. 10% with Yelp check in! read more

Great place to stumble upon cool interesting books, including dated and out-of-print ones. Easy parking, friendly owner, quiet and nice atmosphere for some light weekend meandering and reading. I recommend. Also near great coffee shops and restaurants. read more

I'm definitely a fan of this bookstore! I am surprised I haven't written a review for this one yet. Don't be deceived by the size of this place; it's a bit "cozy", but I LOVE it. There are TONS of books here, some copies that are quite rare and out of print. You will find books in nearly every genre...Science Fiction, Metaphysical/Religion, Literature, How-To/Self-Help, and of course, Children/Young Adult fiction. Not to mention some cute little chairs and stools to sit on while you leaf through your books. I've been able to locate some amazing titles I haven't been able to find in mainstream bookstores or some of the used bookstores in San Diego! Prices are a little bit on the higher side when it comes to used, but like I said, I have been able to find some really rare titles I wouldn't have found unless I went online. If you're into "woo-woo" type genre, let me tell you...I've seen some really rare Tarot card decks, including an older version of Aleister Crowley's Thoth Deck. I was amazed; I didn't buy it as I already own the newer version, but if I didn't have it, I totally would have. I've also seen some Runes and Russian Fortune Telling cards. The owner is super nice and will go out of his way to find/locate a copy for you. I love this about used bookstores; nearly all of the ones I've been to have this customer service mentality. Go here if you are an avid reader and fond of books...especially if you haven't bought into the "Nook/Kindle" craze yet. I'm a little saddened that everything is becoming electronic/high-tech these days, but such is life. read more

What a charming used bookstore. Airy and bright, with a large selection. I'll definitely be back!

Very kind shop owner and a cute little place to go! The books were on the higher end of the price spectrum but that is to be expected with a smaller business. I would definitely go back and support this small business again. Everything was very well organized and layed out read more

Interesting place. You have to ask for help as the place is a bit unorganized but the owner knows where to look. The prices seemed a bit high as some very thin John Steinbeck paperback books I wanted were $7-8. I looked and saw $3.50 on a book and went to buy it and it was $35. It was signed inside and I did not know it. The penciled price looked like $3.50 and did not mention signed. Anyway I still prefer to read printed books over digital as I have tried. I will search out other used book stores if I want to pay less. read more

Great little local bookstore. Owner is super funny and they have a ton of rare finds. So glad we got to check out this little local gem.

Cool bookstore! Their children's section isn't huge but they have some neat, affordable finds. Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, etc. The kids had a field day picking out selections. If you love used and hard to find books, this is an extremely fun place to visit. read more

Owner was very friendly and helpful in locating books. There is a large variety of books to suit even the most particular of readers. Many of the books are hardcover and in excellent condition. read more

Farenheit 451 Books - Bookstores Near Me - Carlsbad, California

This little shop has everything the bibliophil could want. New and used books, the owners are pleasant and knowledgable. They go out of their way to make you feel like you are going through the bookcase at a favorite uncle's house. read more

I love coming into used bookstores to see what they have in their collection, and after working the Carlsbad Marathon, I stopped by here to see what they have. I came here after clapping for 2 hours straight and their music playing through the store was very relaxing and calming. After watching people run, this was the best way to unwind. The store is nice, quiet, and peaceful. The lovely store has a bunch of amazing books here and a wide variety of things here to pick from and to flip through. I came here with my friend and she found the book that she wanted and has been looking everywhere for. read more

I've visited many a used bookstores in my life and this is the most meticulously organized and well kept I've ever encountered. The gentleman working, presumably the owner, had a very wry sense of humor and quick wit about him(case in point, the name of the store). Something I can certainly appreciate and a welcomed change from the usual smug/pretentious attitude I'm more accustomed to receiving at independent book stores. He was also very knowledgeable about just about any author/title I bothered him about. Obviously run by someone that takes great pride in what they do. Definitely worth checking out and dropping a few bucks at. read more

I am a used book store lover. I go into any that I run into. With that being said, I have come across some pretty stuck up employees at book stores and some pretty casual bad ass ones too. I guess this one falls between the two. The employees were not friendly at all and hardly looked up when we walked in. I don't like to be bugged while browsing so I can appreciate employees not following you around but when you come in a store and leave one, you would THINK that there would be some friendliness passed around. Maybe not here. I DID appreciate the hilarious notes all over the place, such as PARENTS CONTROL YOUR CHILDREN! That was awesome. read more

I'm not used to these little independent places, but they are fun to browse in. I imagine you should call first if you are looking for something specific. But I found a nice theology book by a lady from some Ivy League, and the store owner has heard her lecture and told me I'd like her book. Never heard that from a Border's employee. Not that I talk to them, generally, unless I am asking where the bathroom is. But you get the idea. EDIT: I loved the book! I proceeded to read a few other titles by Elaine Pagels, and loved all of it. I never would have done that without this bookstore, so thank you. read more

Everything about this book store is so magical - both new and old great books, a cool location, and a delightful + helpful owner.

Love love love this bookstore!! I stopped in while on vacation in Carlsbad, and left with a hardback book I'd been looking for, a rare hardback book of poetry from the 1950s, and an old classic sci-fi paperback with a rad cover! My husband even found a book on California ghost stories... he's not into reading as much as I am, (I'm about to graduate from library school) but even he found something perfect to occupy his mind while lounging around at the beach! They have a great selection of old and old-looking volumes to add to a picturesque bookshelf. Prices were about $5-$25 for the books we picked out. The whole place felt cozy and peaceful, a place where you just might lose your sense of time and totally relish it!! read more

If you love reading, this is the place for you. The older gentleman behind the counter recommended several books. He was friendly and funny. Yes, it costs more than an online company, but we should support locally owned small business owners. I'll be back. read more

Found this treasure while strolling around town today. Some really unique finds~ great gift ideas. Definitely stop in and check this place out! read more

Bought a few books here. Well organized. Friendly service. I enjoy supporting a private used bookstore. Had what I wanted as far as selection goes.. read more

This is a fine used book store. Its strength is its collection of old and early editions of books. It's a nice, clean, and well-organized bookstore to do some browsing -- their prices are on the expensive side. But, we're still big fans of supporting your local bookstore! read more

It's so nice to have an independent book store in town. Yeah, I succumb to the Borders at The Forum occasionally, but I do love this little place. I've been in 5-6 times now, and one of the owners has always been there, ready to chat about books. I've picked up some cookbooks, a beautiful art book, and books to read and leave behind on vacation. This is a bookstore for real readers, not those dependent on The New York Times bestseller list. If you're one of the former, I guarantee you won't walk out without buying at least one book. If you're one of the latter, take a look around and ask for recommendations--you might find some treasures there! Remember, it's a used bookstore, so the stock can change weekly. I do a Wednesday loop now--walk on the beach, grab a cup of tea at Vinaka, walk to the farmers' market, drop that stuff in the car, and cross the street to Farenheit 451 for a book (or more!) Wednesdays always make me glad I live in Carlsbad:) read more