Friendly staff, lots of books, and I loved the typewriters on display and how grand this local shop is! Haven't purchased from this location, but we love stopping by to browse the books, games, and greeting cards! Super impressed by how large, nice, and well laid out everything is. It's quite the local gem. Also the kids section in the back is cool, would have loved it as a kid! read more

Island Books is an amazing bookstore with plenty of nearby parking, an extensive collection, and oodles of charm. Bookstores are challenging to find and independent bookstores with new content even more. My friend and I stopped here on a whim and from a glance I thought it would be smaller than I had expected but it ended up being much longer than wide offering a ton of content with an easy flow. We were far from alone as there were many other customers milling about, and that is where I saw this little store shine as it was fairly easy to navigate without feeling trapped on enclosed. There were areas to step off into and let people pass, the check-out counter moved quickly, and everyone was super polite. I was very impressed with all the content. There were many different book sections as well as fun gift ideas and funny stickers. Both my friend I enjoyed walking through the aisles taking everything in. I certainly will be back and hope that my bibliophile friends come by to check this store out! read more

Wonderful shop! Like stepping into a different world with so many things to see and read and appreciate and enjoy. Super excited that my book, FERNANDO. live. laugh. love., will be part of their collection. Silken Windhounds fans and family, a magical breed of dogs, are in for a sweet treat! read more

See all

Most charming bookstore on the Eastside. If you're looking for a local Shop Around the Corner (You've Got Mail), this is the spot for you. It's full of charm and whimsy. Staff are attentive and helpful when needed. read more

See all

I took my son to this book store the firsr time. It is an Amazing place for kids. We spend a great morning and people in the store all very nice. they also have kids storytime. read more

Came by looking for my favorite journal. Boo. Not to be found. They carried a wonderful spiral bound journal that made it possible to write wrote and write! Easygoing page turning. The journal section was moved and different. Still a bunch of really cute journal choices but not my favorite and expensive. Doesn't change the fact that this book store is absolutely charming. So many knick knacks and special items for purchase. From socks, journals, cards, and more. And of course! Books. A clean pleasant place to meander and relax. Friendly people who love their job. I overheard some Mercer Island tea while searching for my journal. Apparently, Michelle Obamas Mom used to live on the island and or go to school on the Island. Anyways, if you love books come here!! SYOY. read more

See all

I truly want to support local, independent bookstores, but unfortunately, my experiences at this store have consistently been disappointing because of how I am treated by the staff. Each time I shop here and use my teacher discount, I am purchasing children's books for my classroom. Despite this, I am sharply questioned about whether the books are "really" for classroom use. Being repeatedly challenged in this way feels unnecessary and rude. I have even offered to show my teacher identification, yet the tone remains accusatory rather than appreciative. Asking educators to justify purchases of children's books does not create a welcoming environment. My most recent visit was especially frustrating. I came early for an author event and let the owner know I was there for the visit and hoped to purchase one of the author's books beforehand. Her response, delivered in the same sharp tone as the staff, was, "Did you RSVP?" which made me feel as though I was being accused of trying to attend improperly. A more welcoming response would have been something like, "I'm so glad you could make it. Let me help you find the book. The line will start forming outside at 2:30. Were you able to RSVP?" That small difference matters. After making a genuine effort to shop local and support small businesses, I have decided to take my business to Elliott Bay Book Company instead. It is about the same distance for me, but the experience difference is significant. Their staff is consistently friendly, their book and merchandise selection is better, and I always feel welcomed there. Customer service matters. Unfortunately, that has not been my experience at Island Books. read more

We LOVE island books! they are so wonderful and help us order books from all over and gift wrap them for events. They have great book recommendations and an incredibly kind and helpful staff. I grew up on Mercer Island but don't live there anymore... I still drive back for the bookstore! My son loves the kids book section in back with play house and comfy chairs and so many amazing books and non-book items as well. They are also the only place that sells Island Treats now and those chocolates are super delicious. Definitely worth a visit. read more

Island Books has been part of Mercer Island for as long as I can remember, and I've been buying books and gifts here since I was a kid--back when I used to sit on the floor and read for hours. It's one of our island's most iconic local businesses, and owner Laurie Raisys and her team bring real depth from the book world, always offering knowledgeable guidance and great recommendations. The store has something for every occasion, and the staff is consistently kind, helpful, and genuinely invested in the community. Please keep supporting this longtime island favorite!!! read more

This is such a cute and charming bookstore! I love supporting local businesses, and this one is even more special because it's women-owned (I think!) We live nearby and have visited several times. Each trip has been wonderful, and I'm excited to return during the holiday season. It's not just a great spot for books, but also for finding cute gifts or puzzles. They also offer gift wrapping, which is such a thoughtful touch. Highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area! read more

My first time there today, and... WOW! What a incredible experience! The place is so pretty, warm, inviting... Brad was super helpful, and friendly. I can't wait to come back! read more

What an adorable local, indie bookstore. I had a few minutes before a work meeting on Mercer Island, so I stopped by Island Books to browse. What I found was an adorable bookstore with cute nooks and crannies to sit in and read - with some added merch thrown in. The whole vibe of this bookstore was just so welcoming; I truly wish I had hours to browse. read more

See all

I might reveal my age by saying this but this bookstore reminded me the movie " you've Got Mail" where the owner of a little bookstore and her grandmother were surviving and fighting this new huge book-super store like Barnes and noble. This store is magical with lots of character, you can tell they've put their hearts and souls organizing and decorating it. What I loved the most were these sticky notes posted on certain covers with recommendations of those books. What a thoughtful idea for potential new readers!!! Books are organized by subject (dah! Like any other bookstore) BUT, here's the big difference, each area has its own space and ambience (for example the FOOD BOOKS area includes items for the kitchen available to purchase.) Definitely, the biggest area is the Children's book. They have ALL of them, new ones, old ones, for toddlers, new readers, famous characters, believe me.. ALL of them. Plus they also sell toys. Heaven for kids!!!! This is the perfect shop for holidays, you can find presents for everyone: books, calendars, toys, cards, kitchen items!! SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PLACE!! Nicely done Mercer island, nicely done read more

See all

Sweet, smart, magic. Everything you want in a tiny independent bookstore, or they will get it for you. One of the clerks was also interested in reading an obscure book I was looking for, and while they didn't currently have it, they did previously stock it. Which tells you everything about this place. Lots of other cute book adjacent (and not) things you will want to buy too. If you have kids, the back room appears to be a jackpot. Don't miss this little gem if you are in the area (I am sure all the Mercer Island locals know how lucky they are). read more

This was a gem of a find in Mercer Island. Enjoyed the knowledge of the book sellers and there is a personal touch to each category of book you are looking for. Will be back again! read more

Island Books is a one of a kind. One could get lost for hours in the rooms of books galore across many, many genres. This is a destination bookstore where you'll find well-curated items of all kinds and a vast selection. The non-book offerings are expansive and unique, even compared to Seattle bookstores. Every time I visit, I discover new treasures I've never seen before. And don't get me started on the local chocolate selection - yum! Island Books has rich community connections and a neighborhood vibe, but it's storefront parking and easy access to the freeway make it a convenient stop-off. Abundant staff are available to answer questions and direct folks to their next favorite read. read more

I love coming to this book store. Yes, it's a bit pricey... but it's also quality. This little gem provides a wide variety of resources and support. I have been here a few times and understand the importance of small business. If you need to get a meaningful gift for someone this place has you covered. Are you traveling? Do you have children? This is such a great location to find things you don't see everyday. #ThankYouThursday read more

Island Books - Bookstores Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

Super friendly staff here at this independent bookstore. Nice layout and not only books but cute gifts like socks, stationary, jewelry by local artists, stickers, games. Favorite part was the staff recommendations of different books on display. No sale items or used books but I'm happy to support an indie bookstore! read more

Not sure how I came across their Instagram page, probably because the Instagram algorithm knows I'm a closet nerd, but can't believe it took me this long to find out about this gem. I'm a sucker for local neighborhood businesses that feels homey and this was extremely easy to get to. It's located next to Homegrown and has plenty of parking in a private lot. I'm such an old fashion person, I refuse to give into the era of digital reading on a Kindle, it just feels like a novelty to me to have something physical to hold and carry around. This store has most sections that I gravitate toward such as self-development, psychology, and business. The only thing missing is erotica and mangas, but even Amazon book stores doesn't carry those options. Tell me about your experience if you've been here or is going to after reading this review:) read more

My son and I stumbled across this gem of a book store while getting lunch next door after a basketball game in Merced Island. We were pleasantly surprised by this mom and pop book store! It was a sweet little escape from reality after his first basketball game in a year! He was processing it all at lunch getting back to some sense of normalcy (*insert heaviness) so when we bopped into Island Books and ended up playing a discrete game of hide and seek (he is 13) it was a sweet 30 minutes of treasuring hunting, laughing and bantering. We picked up some bits and bobs but the memory and feeling that this shop helped us create I'll have forever! There needs to be more of this in the world! Go support this local business you will be sure to find something you never knew you needed (like pure goat milk facial wipes for the teen boy who still refuses to shower regularly) :) read more

It was children's story time with Nancy Stewart that led me to Island Books - she is there every Saturday morning at 9:30 with singing and book reading, which has been a great routine for me and my kiddo to attend. But the bookstore is great in itself - their kids section is HUGE with not just books but also games and toys. It is a great independent bookstore with friendly staff and gift options for a loved one. Come here on a rainy day and spend hours browsing! read more

With the onslaught of going "online" and technology this and that, the demise of the tactile and physicality of the BOOK is slowly dying. E-readers are great because you can carry around a "library" of books on a single device. Mobile devices like handphones and tablets do the same thing. But what happened to the days of actually flipping a page in a book. The smell of paper. The sound of the page. The touch of the page in between your fingers. The quintessential tool for expanding your imagination and learning about the world. Do NOT let the book die. Support your local book stores. Buy a book. Amazon doesn't need more money. Barnes and Nobles is being pushed out of business. Next time you give a gift to someone, buy a book. Island books has a wonderful collection for adults, young adults, children, kids, etc. It's one of the few, slowly withering away in this electronic era. I say - get your damn face out of a screen and put it in a book. Seriously. Love this store. I take my 4 yr old daughter here so that she can choose her books. I will never take that experience away from her and neither should the rest of you. read more

I stopped in to Island Books yesterday evening with my best friend, who lives on Mercer Island. This was my first visit to Island Books, but it is unlikely to be my last. In general, I love book stores, but this book store felt even more special than most. Once inside, I almost felt like I'd stepped back in time. Nostalgic music wafted at a muted volume through the store as I noticed old classics from my childhood such as "Heidi," "Little Women," and "A Little Princess" along with many appealing newer book selections. The Travel section is interesting and fairly comprehensive. The Kids section is delightful. I had to tear myself away from it after a ridiculous amount of time spent there given the fact that I do not have any children, nor are any of my nieces' or nephews' birthdays coming up. I was a voracious reader as a child, devouring many chapter books weekly, and it fascinated me to see what children's books are currently on the shelves here. I delved into several children's books out of curiosity, and I picked up an adorable book full of cute stickers. (It's for me. Don't judge. :) ) There is a small "house" (about 5 feet tall) in the kids section that reminded me of visiting the old Seattle Elliot Bay Bookstore as a child. I used to adore the Elliot Bay Bookstore, and they used to have a similar "house" for kids to enjoy. I could curl up in that "house" with a stack of books and completely lose track of time. Kids are not allowed to bring any books into the "house" at Island Books, which is understandable, given that it would be quite the feat for bookstore staff to attempt to regularly clear the "house" of books. The entrances to the "house" are small open squares that extend about 1 - 2 feet from the ground, so I can imagine that for an adult bookstore staff member, getting into and out of the "house" to remove books that kids left in there would get old fast. After walking around this book store for quite some time, I happily settled into one of the extremely comfortable high-backed easy chairs. The easy chairs are conveniently located in between two shelves brimming with books on a wide variety of intriguing topics. I eagerly perused "History of the Bible" by an Oxford Professor of Scripture, "The Faraway Nearby" by Rebecca Solnit, books about Scrabble and books about chess, books about joy and books about pain, books with true stories and books with stories from the writer's fertile imaginations, and books with such luscious prose within their pages that I felt as though I was thoroughly enjoying a scrumptious dessert at a gourmet eatery, except with my mind and heart instead of with my mouth and stomach. This bookstore felt to me like a nourishing sanctuary for 4 out of the 5 senses (no food is allowed to be eaten in there, of course). In addition to books, there were cheerfully pink-and-red-wrapped sweet-smelling bath bombs, subtle-smelling lotions with tester bottles, and a small variety of other appealing non-book items. Luxuriously losing track of time while settled into in a book store's comfy easy chair is one of life's exquisitely delightful pleasures for me. I was shocked when one of the book store's staff politely came to inform me that the book store was closing in 10 minutes. I reluctantly decided against purchasing the last remaining copy of "The Paris Review." With difficulty, I discarded Gabriel Bump's book "Everywhere You Don't Belong." From the summary of this book, it looks like it would be an incredible read, and my eyes lit up when I first noticed the title. "Everywhere You Don't Belong!" I read out loud to my best friend. "[For me,] that's everywhere!" (Well, not quite *everywhere* - but I felt that the title and premise of this book felt very relatable, probably to a lot of us in today's fast-paced, fragmented society, even though most of us don't share in most of the specifics of this author's unique story.) I put back almost every book that I had that measured more than about 2 - 3 inches thick. My 10 bookshelves at home are stuffed full, and the fact that I recently purchased 5 bamboo compact upright "book trees" - which hold about 20 books each - wasn't a strong enough justification for me to buy most of the books that I very much wanted to buy from this book store. Among 4 other books, one of the books that I did buy is, ironically enough, a book of stories about people loving their experiences in book stores! The cashier mentioned to me that this book store has been on the Island for 46 years now! My experience here was as close to perfect as a book store experience can get. read more

See all

Got visit to the bookstore and Learned about the history of skiing on Snoqualmie pass. It is nice to have them host local authors. I also love the gift wrap for free. Shop local read more

Island Books - Bookstores Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

Nice eclectic selection, friendly and helpful staff. I always find something I want to read here. A hidden gem on Mercer Island.

I love this bookstore with all my heart and I'm not saying this because I'm a biased Islander. This place truly is the bee's knees. Being an independent bookstore is tough these days but the resilience of this place never ceases to amaze me. Not only is their collection of books truly amazing, they also have high quality gifts, cards, candies, games, bags, etc. If I need to get a quick gift for someone special in my life, Island Books is the first place I go to. I LOVE the way the store is organized with magazines and completely unique, high-quality cards up in the front, then fiction and non-fiction titles in the middle (super well organized with cookbooks, travel books, etc tucked nicely to the right). Then you get to the back of the store which is the children's section and it's literally everything your childhood was. It has rows of magnificent books but also a small wooden play area where you can nestle in with a good book and get transported to another realm. If you don't want to sit in the children's section, there is a single couch seat in the fiction area and they don't mind at all if you just want to sit and read. If there is a book you want but they don't have, they will kindly order it for you. If there is a book you want to grab quickly, you can call in and they can put it aside. The staff have awesome recommendations and can really help you find the book you need. They also have monthly book club meetings that I've personally never had the pleasure of participating in but I have only heard great things. When I was in high school, I used to always line up at midnight to purchase the next book in a series (Harry Potter and Twilight) and they always made the experience even more special with their magic. They also host awesome authors and do fun readings for the younger readers. My writing isn't doing this store justice, so make sure you go and check it out yourself. Island Books really is a magnificent place and I hope that you find what you're looking for--whether it's escape, solace, adventure, or a good laugh--at Island Books. read more

Island Books - The staff is SO knowledgeable. They know exactly where books are and if they don't have it, they'll order it. Free giftwrap too! - Bookstores Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

Words can't express how grateful I am to have this local gem. Immediate relaxation walking through those doors, with such helpful, kind and competent staff. Laurie, the owner, does a wonderful job with staying current and very in touch with the literary world. And amazing gifts as well! Lillian in the kids section, Cindy up front, both tenacious and determined to find what's best for you, deftly curating and explaining the books. We really like all the staff. What probably makes it very special, to me, is how committed they are to our community in all levels. Laurie genuinely cares about MI, being as altruistic a business owner as I've seen. She supports and coordinates all the school fundraisers, supports the farmers market, accommodates all kinds of odd hours. We are very lucky! read more

A cute little book store with wonderful gifts and a nice selection of books. They have chairs throughout the store that make it cozy and make you want to sit and read a while before purchasing the book to take home and finish. If you're on Mercer Island, it's definitely worth a stop. read more

See all

Our daughter had a gift certificate here from a school read-a-thon. Although I tend to order most of my books online due to convenience. We were surprised at how sweet of a bookstore this was. It had interesting books as well as jewelry and knick knacks from local artisans. The children's section in the back is particularly nice with a little ramp and an array of fascinating reads. My daughter and son were both happy to find new books. We'll definitely plan on heading back here next time not only to support a local business but it's nice to be spending time away from a computer when searching for a new book. read more

An amazing bookstore filled with great books, charm and wonderful staff. This is the type of bookstore you visit and get lost in for hours. It is a balm to the soul in a harried disconnected time. Please visit Island Books and do yourself a favor by allowing a couple of hours for your trip there. You will return :) read more

I've been coming to this book store since I was a child (over 30 years). They have a great selection, fun trinkets, and an excellent story time on Saturday mornings. If they don't carry the book you want, they'll order it. This is an awesome place! read more

Best book store in PNW! If you want an authentic, local bookstore where the staff knows each and every book they sell, this is your place! Wonderful people and terrific selection. They also have free gift wrapping and free shipping year round so it is a great place to buy all your gifts for loved ones! read more

Wonderful little shop full of nooks and crannies of good books etc! A little gem on Mercer island . Good parking. Friendly staff. GoOd customer service. read more

Great big, little book store! I spent so much time in here. If you're a book lover check it out. I went in for a travel book and walked out with the travel book and three more from different sections. read more

What a fabulous place for children, My Angel loved it!! Excellent book selection for children and amazing customer service. Will be coming back here for sure. :) read more

This is a "real" bookstore. I love supporting small, independently-owned businesses, and this is my local bookstore! A wonderful place. I get tired of that Goliath Barnes and Noble, with all their new rules about no returns after 2 weeks or without receipt, etc. Island Books has a wonderful selection of greeting cards and magazines. The Children's Section is phenomenol. They have a great table or two of "staff recommendations" and I have found some fabulous reads from these displays, that I otherwise would not have heard of. They sell some used books as well. I also love the Cookbook section, up on a platform, with a handy chair, to sit and peruse the selections. Rather than having multiple copies of just the best selling books, they have only 1 or 2 copies of some wonderful cookbooks that I would not even notice in that other "giant" book store. Staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. Great place. Free shipping. They will happily order any book they do not have on hand. Wonderful place to browse! Please support a wonderful, independent bookstore! read more

This place is a diamond in the rough! I was eating lunch next door (homegrown, try it out!) And wanted to pop in here really quick. I was so surprised at how big it was and the selection they had! There is a huge children's section in the back, which I think is wonderful. They are extremely friendly and helpful. They also have board games, puzzles and cute trinkets! If you are in the area, make this a stop on your list! I know I'll be back. read more

This is by far my favorite bookstore, and the favorite bookstore of my kids. Sadly it's located on Mercer Island so I get there more infrequently than I'd like. Friendly, most knowledgeable staff. Great events. The best children's department around. AND then ship your books for free! read more

A Mercer Island native recently told me about this place, and I am hooked. Every time I'm on the island, I visit this wonderful bookstore. I could spend hours there. The children's section in the back is especially wonderful. The selection of picture books is fabulous and I can't help but read many books to my 3 year old toddler. Highly recommended. read more

You can use their website to order any book that Amazon would have and pick it up in the store free of charge or get it shipped to you for a modest fee. If you don't need it tomorrow, save on the Amazon Prime membership and support your local bookstore! If you're trying to hunt down something unique, they will bend heaven and earth to track it down for you. They found me a super obscure book from 1954 that only had one limited reprint in the 70s. It's the kind of personal touch I've come to almost take for granted at Island Books. Honestly, I've been going here since I was small enough to crawl around in the playhouse in the kid's section, and I love it even more now than I did then. read more