Look I think the reviews here lean too harsh IMO as it's totally within the business owners right to have a no phones out policy, and I didn't feel affronted by it in the slightest. However, I didn't find too many books of interest, and the tight quarters and powerfully musty smell does have me questioning a return trip. It's fun to just pop into stores around Eureka, and I love a good bookstore. Usually the best part of the bookstore is the vibes, which is why I'm not raving about this one. As others have noted, vibes here aren't the best. I love old buildings but this one feels like it's about to topple over in some ways. It definitely has it's own character that's for sure. I also didn't find that everything was categorized all that well, and was sort of left to just meander and try to skooch by everyone. Fun idea to see a local bookstore in the shops of downtown Eureka Springs, and maybe this one isn't for everyone but always worth popping in. read more

Gazebo Books - Outside - Cards & Stationery Near Me - Eureka Springs, Arkansas

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Awful. The smell is intolerable. My husband walked in holding a to-go coffee with a lid and the owner/clerk told him to leave it up front with her. Seriously? He turned and walked out. Then she turned her attention to me, barking at me about no pictures allowed and no cell phone use. I also turned and walked out. I work in publishing. I appreciate the challenges independent bookstores face, including competition from online retailers. However, between the rude clerk, the smell, and the rules, this was the definition of a ruined first impression. Customer experience is one of the few competitive advantages an independent bookstore has, and sacrificing that in an effort to prevent a small number of people from comparison shopping is foolish. read more

Great book by new author from Tontitown. Narristisic Surgeon and his three women during love bombing staff Don't miss this. Great reviews. Available at Google and Amazon for purchase. read more

Gazebo Books - Dr Fearless. Narcissistic Surgeon who love bombs his women. Purchase on Google or Amazon. - Cards & Stationery Near Me - Eureka Springs, Arkansas

The employee not only brusque informed me the moment I entered the store that no cell phone use is allowed "especially for photos" (despite my not having even had my phone out, and her having her own quite loud phone conversation the entire time I was in the store), but also berated me for "bending" the calendars instead of taking them out of their racks when I was quite literally barely tipping them forward to see whether the ones behind the front display were duplicates. Beyond that, the musty smell and obviously moisture damaged hardcover book jackets would have turned me off to making any literary purchases there, and felt that browsing the calendars (which I am in the market for!) was the least I could do to support a small, independent bookstore while in town. But I was in there for all of 5 minutes before I felt quite unwelcome and that I was being watched like some sort of delinquent child, and that's not the type of place I want to spend my money, nor would I recommend it to others. Moisture on NEW books for sale? Not a great look; no wonder they don't allow photos! read more

I'm not sure why people dislike the owner. I found her personable and welcoming, with an impressive collection of titles. Truly, it ranged from life in the antebellum south to how to be--and raise--an anti-racist. My only complaint that isn't a complaint, per se, is that the shop smelled really moldy, so much so that my husband had to step out while I browsed. Other than feeling like I needed to be wearing a mask, I thought it was a great bookstore. read more

This little bookstore consists of two rooms stuffed with a very eclectic selection of books. I loved the variety, and the fact that so many often underrepresented topics were featured; one area had books about the folklore and traditions of the Ozarks region, another had political and sociological works including feminist topics and other civil rights/rebellions discussions. One area consisted entirely of a mix of New Age books and ecological/Earth-oriented works. There was a large selection of books for kids of all ages, from read along books to some YA. I think its important to consider that many (not all) of the people complaining about the NO PHONES rule are also the type to look up books they want online to save a few dollars over a local seller. The store is in business to make money, not be a showroom for books to be purchased later from the Amazon/Barnes&Noble/BAM market. Yes, the fact that the store doesn't take card was a little inconvenient...but to be honest I give the lady credit for being crafty and waiting until my wife and I had spent the better part of an hour finding books we wanted before telling us. Had she told me before, I might have let that slight inconvenience sway me, and not have chosen anything...but after finding ones I wanted, the less than 5 minute walk to the ATM nearby to pull out cash was honestly no big deal at all. As a booklover and someone who likes to support small businesses when I can, I can't imagine making such a big deal of and/or making a negative review of a store over a very short walk to get cash, especially when most of us are there precisely to walk around town and shop all the various stores, and they'll hold items for you to grab on the way back down if you want. All in all, my wife and I walked away with a very good impression after a nice chat with the lady running the store, a short walk for me to get cash while they talked, and a handful of books and a calendar for a bit less than $100. Will definitely return next time I find myself in Eureka Springs. read more

Two sisters books, do not get on their bad side! Love these ladies and visit every time in ES!

This is a nice little bookstore. There is a musky smell but it's a bookstore and it wasn't very bad. The selection was wide ranging with a nice selection. The lady was friendly to us so we're not sure about the negative reviews because of her. There is a sign saying not to use your phone in the store but that's fine. I figure it's more about people talking on the phone while in there so I did google a book to read more about it before buying it. read more

Cute little place, but could feel the prickliness of the older, apparently lefty (judging by all the social justice-related books), owner/cashier immediately, on her phone and ignoring me as I walked in right past her. Other customers came after me a few minutes later and got the barked "no cellphones" (okay for her but not for her customers) or pictures rule. I don't really get it but whatever, maybe she doesn't want people comparing prices online. Chose a book, but she helped a couple of locals first who came in as I reached the register. Won't take payment cards, only cash (not a big deal but I'd have bought more if she did). Can't give in to those capitalist, card-issuing banks I guess. The funny thing is, when she saw I was buying a book by a local historian she got real friendly and talkative and it ended up a relatively pleasant experience, lol! I may be back again for more local books, but YMMV. Not sure how she stays in business TBH. You'll catch more flies with honey, honey, rather than swatting them all dead the second they walk in your store. read more

There's a lot of negative reviews from this bookstore about the owners. My husband and I went in fully prepared to be harassed by the owner to find a very nice older woman who simply and plainly asked us not to use our phones in the store. I brought cash from reading previous reviews stating it was cash only so I wouldn't run into any problems at checkout and we really enjoyed the nice selection this little store has. We picked out a couple things and went to check out and I had a very pleasant conversation with the owner about folklore and the Fae and my favorite books on them. Bottom line is, just respect the rules she gives in HER store and be polite. Don't go in expecting to have a negative experience like we did. read more

Wonderful experience! Good selection of books, super dog-friendly, kind knowledgeable owner. No problem leaving phone in my pocket! Great idea for everyone seeking REAL connection in the world. read more

I love classic books, & there were three spinning racks of relatively recently republished classics- editions I'd never seen. Unfortunately the toxic, mildewy (?!) smell of the store was so bad I couldn't stay in there for more than a couple minutes. I mean it is really really really bad. I wouldn't be surprised if that's why the owner's so short with everyone actually . I really can't imagine breathing that in all day long, every day. It must be unhealthy. read more

After leaving this bookstore I was confused about all the negative reviews. My husband and I stopped in and had a lovely conversation with the older lady who checked us out. She was knowledgeable when helping other customers and very polite while also being engaging. I'm looking forward to our next trip to Eureka Springs and will make a point to stop in. read more

Don't waste your time. I give it a one star because I have too. Wish I could give it a negative. Walking in, instead of saying hello. She said, "Don't use your cell phones in the store! They are not allowed! There's another room in the back." We said thank you and absolutely. While inside, a man and woman came in and said he liked that books were being sold in stores again. She said they were always sold in stores. He said it was nice to see a store dedicated to selling books and you can put your hands on them. She rudely said, "Actually more of the stores are doing it because the big box stores don't work." He said he knew and he was just appreciating what she was doing. She ignored him. I looked at him and said, "You tried. That's a first." He just laughed and said He didn't get it and he wouldn't be buying anything. I don't think I have heard someone argue with a customer when they were complimenting them on their business. She was rude and obnoxious and we left immediately. read more

DO NOT go onto this bookstore thinking you will buy a book. Go into this bookstore thinking you will encounter the rudest salesperson on the planet. Be prepared to be scolded like a child as the rules are barked at you. Expect a lecture on how wonderful socialism is and horrible capitalism is. If you want some real fun, rebut her socialistic ideals by saying you love the Constitution and that the Founding Fathers were brilliant men with great foresight. You'll be in for a treat as she hurls insults at you and all that is American. When you decide you've had enough and actually try to leave, don't be surprised if she blocks the door while she continues her rant. Finally, once you've escaped the nastiness and think you are safely down the sidewalk, you may hear the door reopen and even more insults yelled in your direction. She's really not interested in selling you a book. read more

I only lasted in the store 1 minute. The rank, fetid odor of absolute mold and mildew had my stomach turning in knots. There is no way to describe the intense reek. I was in a panic to get out of the shop before I vomited. I held my hand over my face and dry heaved my way out of the store. The place is a health hazard and unfit for the public. read more

I made the mistake of NOT checking yelp before visiting this store. My friend and I had split up as we were interested in different stores. I was excited to come across a bookstore and pulled my phone out to text her where I was at (clearly, this is why I probably missed the rules section on the door) I hit "send" as I was walking in and was immediately told "no phones!". She didn't yell. But I felt scolded. She then told me to let her know if I had any questions and placed a phone call herself. I walked around a bit. Decent selection of books but no real organization. I didn't pick up anything to check prices so can't offer anything on prices. My quick visit though included listening to the owner very vocally complain about Eurekas plans for the week coming up revolving around the Fourth of July festivities. I can tell you first hand, she is not happy about them. I had just a very negative vibe about the place so left. Nothing what I expected from a Eureka Springs bookstore. Bummer... read more

We loved visiting this store and hearing about the town's history from the owner. The owner was very welcoming. The assortment of books is thoughtful and we will definitely be back on future vacations. read more

Boo! Hiss! The sole blemish on our otherwise pleasant visit to Eureka Springs. We'd barely set foot inside the door before the ogre behind the cash register started checking items off her Worst Customer Service Ever bucket list. I was prepared to grant a mulligan over her curt scolding over forgetting to pull on my Covid mask, but when she followed this up by assailing us regarding her No Cell Phone Policy (as if we'd had the time or demonstrated an inclination to violate it) and insisted on being a supreme pain in the ass, there was nothing for this self-respecting bibliophile to do but to immediatly turn 180° and pirouette the @#$% back out the door. I only had a few seconds to scan the store ... but it didn't look promising. She could've been selling signed first editions for $5.00 apiece and there's no way I'd have spent another moment inside her miserable little fiefdom anyway. read more

Today, my husband and I were excited to shop in this seemingly inviting store. We are visiting from Tulsa; we make the trip to Eureka Springs fairly often to shop. I saw a very interesting moon puzzle but wanted to run the purchase by my co-teacher before I used our classroom funds, so I got my phone out to take a pic to text to her. The woman at the counter interrupted her own conversation with her acquaintance to loudly say, "Ma'am, you aren't allowed to use your phone in any way in here." I immediately put my phone away and left her store. We will never purchase anything from her store. Such insecure, rude and presumptuous behavior from a merchant is a major turn-off. She did not greet us when we entered the store; her first interaction with us was to bark at me. Terrible customer service. read more

Who wants to open a bookstore in Eureka Springs,? One that doesn't smell like mildew, has room to move, and considerately informs customers of store policies, accept credit cards or at least informs customers PRIOR to shopping of the no card policy and... who doesn't insult and pick on children, autistic teens, hearing impaired women and people of color? I'm disgusted that any store owner would treat anyone with such disrespect... and then have the audacity to insist that all six of my beloved family and guests to Eureka were ALL liars!!!! I guess ALL the reviewers here are also lying? My niece was in tears after being told she couldn't leave the store until it was confirmed that the 2 books she (politely) put back(after finding out there was a cash only policy after getting to the counter to check out) were indeed back on the shelf!!! My niece was being VERY clearly profiled. The owner also yelled at my hearing impaired sister for saying "I'm sorry, what did you say?" And told my autistic son 3 times there was a "no cell phone" policy. He was not on his phone. He was carrying it because he did not have pockets. He politely asked her why she had the policy. Her reply was that she didn't want someone taking pictures to open their own store REALLY?! She then yelled at him when he, innocently suggested my niece buy the books on Amazon since she couldn't buy them at the store (no cash). In all fairness, at that point he told her to "have a nice day" and that he hoped she'd "get the stick out of her a**." Unfortunately he can have filter issues when pushed. The problem is not her policies. She's entitled to run business as she pleases. But she does NOT have the authority to abuse my family or anyone else. I am sending healing love and comfort for whatever horrible life this owner has had to endure that would cause her to be so abusive to others. read more

HATES CHILDREN. Not a friendly store to peruse and look around. My Son (3 years old and at my side) picked up A children's book to show us. We were told IMMEDIATELY that "it's best if he does not touch anything" - so we walked out. Another couple did as well when they saw how rude she was. So we just bought the book on amazon. Not friendly, not family friendly. Rules are posted on the door before you enter. The other local businesses warn you about her - she's rude to them too. Will never buy a book from her. read more

I truly don't know what everyone was on about. The owner is extremely kind and talkative. She has rules and honestly who cares? There are a ton of ATM's close for cash and she want to keep a quiet store without phones going off every second. By her signs on the door, it's clear that the people she makes the most mad are Trump loving republicans. She doesn't want your business anyways ;) a woman of my heart. read more

I'd agree with the other reviews about service, I didn't really feel welcomed the moment I walked in, some nice books but wouldn't come back

A rather bizarre establishment. I came here with a few friends on a Friday afternoon. Unlike the other reviewers I did not notice the sign of rules on the door. The store looked neat, like a local small business. I bought a box of mints. My friend bought a planner but didn't have cash. Apparently the sign on the door didn't mention their cash-only policy. I gave the worker the money and my friend pulled out her phone to pay me back electronically, which triggered the cashier. She then literally called us stupid for not carrying cash, and went on a rant about how we are evil for keeping banks in business by using credit cards. A rather unexpected series of events, but I will not return. Stick to the Internet and keep the evil online merchants in business! read more

After reading most of the reviews I was hesitant to go in but it was one of the few bookstores in town. Sure enough as soon as we entered the owner announced we were not to use our cell phones or take any pictures. I have no idea why but whatever. Yes it was very musty smelling as well. The books seemed to be grouped together but no sections were labeled. And she's CASH ONLY so be prepared. It wasn't awful and I did find a book for purchase but I didn't linger in there longer than I had to. read more

It's very disheartening to realize how disrespectful people are today. The lady that owns gazebo books didn't deserve all the ridicule she got. It's her shop her rules follow them or don't go in it's that simple. And you missed out. She is a very intelligent articulate lady that was a wealth of knowledge. After all she has been running this shop for 40 years. I for one throughly enjoy talking with her. read more

AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Not only are you barked at the SECOND you walk in about your phone and no credit cards but the owner likes to rant about how she's a socialist and capitalism sucks. Who cares?! The store is plain and nothing special to look at. Save your money and go elsewhere. read more

My friends and I were excited to find a bookstore in Eureka Springs, but we weren't excited for too long. Immediately when we walked in the employee (assuming the owner), barked, "No food and no cell phone pictures." We didn't even have have drinks and our phones were not out. She never said hello or welcomed us. The atmosphere of the bookstore was very uncomfortable and tense. We weren't there very long and tried to purchase some puzzles, but the owner only takes cash and checks, not debit/credit cards. Don't waste your time, we should have read reviews first. Luckily, the rest of the town is amazing and the shop owners are very friendly. read more

Make sure you have cash before going in. And make sure you read the signs on the door before you enter. Hate to say it but the negative reviews are true. read more

I don't usually take the time to write a review if it is not a positive one because I don't want to generate a bunch of negative energy. However, I'm breaking my own rule today because I'm actually viewing this review as community service in hopes of helping others to not make the same mistake that I made by entering this store. My daughter just started reading and was very excited to pick out a couple of books while we are on vacation here in Arkansas. So, we entered the store and got the standard mask/hand sanitizer speech from the owner. It was very similar to what most businesses are telling customers right now. Totally fine. Then, she tells us that we can't take pictures of anything in her store with our cell phones. Also fine, but honestly, there are no creative displays or cool ideas to steal in there-- it is a store with books, calendars, and a few puzzles. Pretty basic. So, I agree not to photograph the Judy Moody books and move on. Whatever. My sweet, enthusiastic reader then picks out two books she can read, and I go to pay for them. At that time, I'm told that no credit cards will be accepted. Again, fine, but I mention to the owner that it would be helpful to those of us who are vacationing/not familiar with the area to include mention of her cash-only policy when she talks to customers as they enter the store. Wow! You would have thought that I had just photographed one of her basic cat calendars!! She lays in to me about how it is not her job to tell people that she won't accept credit cards, that people should not assume that they can pay with a credit card, and that it is the customer's responsibility to ASK HER instead of just assuming that she will accept a card. And, she wouldn't stop lecturing me! I've got cash on the counter and am ready to pay for the books since my child is so excited to read them, but she won't stop with her air of superiority about how she's right and it is wrong of me to suggest that she could inform customers upon entering that credit cards will not be accepted. In that moment, I was ready to cash her check and take a few pictures of the five puzzles that she is trying to sell, but instead, I took a deep breath and tried to set a good example for my Kindergartener who, by the way, is watching every single thing that big people do and desperately trying to model herself in such a way that people will not refer to her as a "little girl" because she is, in fact, a "big kid." How dare you act like that at all with any customer, much less while a child is there to witness your deplorable behavior! Anyway, I still bought the books for my child instead of sharing my true feelings with the owner and telling her where she could put them, but wow! What a nasty, belligerent soul! In short, if you are having a terrible day, you should definitely frequent Gazebo Books because misery loves company!!! But, if you are like me and are just trying to be kind and set a decent example for your kid while there is a global pandemic and nothing feels normal, then find another local bookstore somewhere, order from Amazon, or write your own book-- just don't rake any pictures of it ;) read more

This store is bigger than it looks, with a selection of children's books, novels, nonfiction, and gifts. The architecture section is small but well curated, and the poetry options are likewise not enormous but inclusive of a good variety. The staff here is friendly and happy to offer recommendations for not only reading but places to eat dinner or grab beer/coffee. You get a sense that they really love this little town! Do note that this is a quiet shop where one can sit and read or browse the shelves. The sign at the door requests phones be silenced and not used in the store. It's a great place to buy a greeting card or peruse a birding guide but not ideal for loud cellular conversations. read more

To be honest, I think everyone is being a little hard on this store. Yes, the owner has a lot of rules. Yes phones and credit cards aren't allowed. But the rules are literally outside the door. It's a bookstore - you should be able to read. If you cannot respect books or even respect the owner's wishes - because this store is their property just like your house is your property - don't go in. But if you love books and respect books for what they are, go on in. It's a cute little store with books for all ages. But don't forget - no phones and no credit/debit cards! read more

If I could give zero stars I would. The owner is flat out rude and disrespectful. I don't care if it is her store. My wife, five year old daughter, and I went to the store. Excited! We all love books. We helped pick a couple out for our daughter. I was helping my daughter out the store when I heard my wife talk to the cashier/owner and I could tell she (the owner) had a condescending tone. The owner started in on "cash only" because of credit card fees. My wife only had a credit card. Fortunately I had some cash on me to cover it. My wife said she didn't know it was cash only and asked if there was a sign or something. The owner snaps back about assumptions and that customers should ask instead of just assuming they can use a credit card. Then she kept lecturing my wife about why she doesn't have to take credit cards. My five year old daughter asked afterward what was wrong with "the woman" (the owner). We explained to her that the person must not be a happy person, etc. and that she must have a hard time being kind to people. Children are smart. A FIVE year old picked up on the negative and inappropriate behavior displayed by the owner. I will never step foot in this store again. Maybe that's what she wants. If you want to shop there, you have been warned. Peace. read more

stepping foot in this shop was the worst decision of my entire stay in Eureka. i wish i would have read reviews first. extremely rude store owner. i followed the rules the entire time - they aren't anything crazy- no phones, mask, hand sanitizer. she is a book nazi though! i actually decided i'd had enough of eureka after this experience and left the city a night early... packed our bags at 5pm, didn't ask for the hotel refund, and decided to head towards sunnier places! i think if someone else opened a bookstore in town, she would lose her business. read more

I enjoyed this shop immensely. The owner was lovely to talk to and made us feel welcome. I was interested in their selection of tarot cards and she helped me find a deck i was interested in. I'll definitely be going back when i'm in town again! read more

The lady at the store was so kind to my friends and me. She was very personable and made us feel welcome in the store. I would highly recommend going here, if not for the great variety of books, for the excellent staff. I will definitely be coming back! read more

Love this shop! I come here every time I come to town (once every year or two). The owner is a gem if you take the time to converse with her. She's in her 70's, but you wouldn't know it! Full of life and energy. She's well travelled and wise, and loves talking spirituality (not religion) and written works. She's sat on city counsel in the recent past, and had her shop for 40 years, so super knowledgeable about the town and surrounding areas. read more

I stopped by this bookstore over the weekend. For those of you who have negative reviews hopefully you at least read the reviews before walking in. No, the owners don't have the best personality and yes they have their rules. When we walked in she told us right away no cell phones and we obliged. Nice little store but I didn't find anything super special about it. I was hoping for more gifts and less children's books but if you're looking for children's books they have a really nice selection. read more

This store must be a tax shelter because the owner clearly doesn't need or want sales. A short visit to this store during a vacation 7 years ago has lived on in infamy in my family's lore. Basically my brother received a text and was immediately and aggressively accosted by the owner just for slipping his phone out of his pocket. He put his phone away, obviously bewildered, but my Mom didn't take it kindly. It ended with the owner following us outside to yell more and me hearing my Mom use the C word for the first time, bellowing across the street. My advice would be to avoid the place altogether, there is no essence of a "customer friendly" experience so I say let the owner be as alone and profit free as she clearly wants to be. For character reference, see Fred Armisen as bookstore owner Candace in Portlandia. read more