I absolutely love this place! They have a HUGE selection of both new and used books. You won't be able to leave without buying something, and that something might be more like "somethings" because there are just so many to choose from! Just be aware that the staff may ask you to leave your backpack with them at the front of the store. Not an unreasonable request, all things considered. They will hold it for you behind the desk. I have never had a single unpleasant visit to this store. It's been a few years, but I know I'll be returning. read more

I used to come to this bookstore as a kid/teen. It's nice to be back, peruse all the shelves, and dig for treasures.

This place has been around for years. Good place to browse for really old vintage books. However, I don't remember book prices being so high at this place, especially for the used books that I was sorting through. The same books I saw at Housing Works in NYC that were going for $8 bucks were marked up to $14 here. I guess they need to make up for the high rent in Montclair and keep book prices high to stay afloat. Unlike so many other solid businesses that are long gone from downtown Montclair. read more

this store is very nice! very nostalgic! smells good like old books :). i bought a beatles tee shirt and its supper soft. i just love the selection of records. friendly staff as well. read more

I went here today to donate books. I was yelled at and spoken to rudely. No one has the right to speak to another person in that manner. I was told previously that they took donations of books as long as they were in good condition and not text books or business books. I abided by those rules. And, that if you wanted a store credit you had to make an appointment but if you were donating books you could just drop them off any day but Tuesday. I was not told when I called 2 weeks ago that I had to call to make an appointment just to donate books. I had donated books last week and didn't call and no one said I needed to call ahead of time. However today, the guy with long grey hair came out the store and started yelling at me as I was getting the books out of my car to donate. He pointed to a poorly written sign posted about calling ahead of time that is not even eye level and not very noticeable. I took the donation back and will never shop there or donate there again. Also the store is grimy and they need to seriously clean in there. read more

In my book (pun intended), Montclair Book Center was where the gentrification of Montclair started, several decades ago. Still one of my favorite places to browse, there are tons of interesting out-of-print volumes, curiosities and relics mixed with contemporary titles. There are many bargains to be had with the older used books, and some discounting of many of the current titles. The store layout utilizes every square inch to pack their books, and there are entire sections on subjects that the chain stores offer only a few titles. Many hidden nooks and a library-like second floor help to add dimension and character. The folks who run this store are anxious to assist, and have always been decent and customer-centric, if not outwardly friendly. read more

Great spot for used, rare and vintage books. A relief from the run of the mill Barnes and Noble, though you should still expect to pay list price for new books. The only reason I go here is for the used books, especially the ones outside for $1. The used selection isn't great, but often contains some great finds for a very low price. read more

Montclair Book Center is very similar to the video store that Randall works at in Clerks.* It is literally full of used and rare books, wall to wall, shelf to shelf, corner to corner. It's surprisingly well organized, but with old school charm.** You could easily browse here for hours and leave with an unfortunate amount of literature because of the depth of the inventory and the good prices. Another similarity to Clerks* and High Fidelity* lies in the staff. The staff knows where everything is, they know what you're asking for, they take pride in their lack of technologically advanced aisle display, they hate the man (Borders and Barnes and Noble) and they also secretly hate you and think you are stupid. They will get you exactly what you need and what you want, it will just be tempered with a small bit of disdain for you and your SUV and your FIOS television. MBC is ideal when you are interested in a subject (gardening, photography) or a genre (romance novels -barf-, suspense) and just want to browse and get used books for cheap that you will probably read some day. You can't go wrong here unless you like Borders, then you might not leave here without getting mildly shaken. ____________ *It's a movie noob, look it up. ** This means handwritten signs and arrows and sections. DIY is in. read more

I first wandered into this store when I was about 12 years old and remembered it as a magical place with wooden shelves packed with books from the floor to the ceiling. Fast forward to last year: I was talking with a friend about local bookstores and this place popped into my head. I had not been here since that first time so I was hoping it would live up to my memories. Upon entering the store, I took a deep breath - partly out of relief because it was what I expected and more, and partly because I wanted to take in that comforting old book smell. This is a really cool place. Employees are very friendly and I've always been greeted at the door. Every time I go here, I spend at least an hour browsing every shelf of their literature section. I've been able to get some great deals on older, used books. Yes, the prices of many of their unused and new release books are the same as Barnes and Noble but I'd much rather support an independent bookstore than B&N. It should be noted that certain hardcover new releases are 50% off retail price. Go, go, go! read more

For a booklover, this place is a wet dream. You step in and immediately you are hit with shelf after shelf of books, as far as your eye can see. Books on science, religion, philosophy, cooking, art, etc. The floorboards are creaky, the shelves themselves are made of old-looking wood. That distinct "book" smell is wafting around. It's enough to make googly eyes at it. But, as with all things, this place has a downside. Mainly, it is expensive. Like Barnes and Nobles-type expensive. I swung by there today and I was slightly annoyed by their prices. I mean, if I wanted to buy a $30 book, I could just go to B&N. I honestly think they need to cater a little more to the customers and lower their prices (Chatham Booksellers does it!) but if you're looking for a romantic place to browse with a friend or a date (or you simply have tons of cash to spend) then head out to this bookstore. read more

You know, I have been going to this place since I was a kid. I purchased my first Punisher comic there and remember so many nights where they kicked me out because they wanted to close. All I wanted to just sit there and hang out, reading comics. I am now a kindle owner and realized recently that I have not been there for some time. I wish that they could somehow capitalize on the direction of digital media but am grateful that Pete has survived and beat out Borders! GOOD FOR YOU MAN! I WILL go back if only to support these guys. My daughter is a regular which brings back memories of my own and makes me sad and guilty that I have not done more to support them. These guys are the best! Love The MBC!!! read more

I really enjoy coming to this book store to browse! Lots and lots of books, both used and new, on pretty much everything under the sun. I've gotten several awesome steals off their $1-2 shelves that they keep outside as well. I would give this place 5 stars based on the selection and environment alone, but some of the used books can be a bit pricey, which takes it down to a 4 star. The 3 star rating is because almost every time I go, the person checking me out looks as if they wish I wasn't there. I don't really get it. I'm an avid book lover - I used to work at one of the biggest library systems in the country, so I love nothing more than looking at and talking about books with just about anyone. Any time I try to make friendly chat or ask about a book with the person at the register, they look at me like I've got three heads! It's really disappointing. Not enough to stop me from stopping by regularly of course, but I wish they seemed as excited about their own store as I am. read more

This is my favorite bookstore! I come here a couple times a month, and I always find a great deal. Their literature section is the best I know of. I love The Strand in NYC, but this place is much more enjoyable to browse and is not so overwhelming. And they almost always have the books I'm looking for - if they don't, I always find something else instead. I'm not going to elaborate because the other reviews seem to have covered this place well, but one thing I wanted to add: They now sell records and CDs in the basement! They're already got a pretty solid selection (my boyfriend who has a ridiculous record collection always finds one when he visits) and I know that they're expanding....So now The Montclair Book Center is great for book & music lovers! I don't know anywhere else to get records in the area. Oh, and the people that work here seem pretty friendly to me. read more

I love you, Montclair Book Center. I could walk around your aisles all day. The prices are a bit high, but honestly, I wouldn't mind spending the money here to support a store like this as opposed to one of the equally-as-expensive chain bookstores. I am nowhere near a book 'collector', but just browsing the many antique and rare book selection they have here is intriguing. read more

Walking by this bookstore, it seems that they can only house a few hundred books or so. Looks can be deceiving. This place is huge! Service is great, and their prices are competitive with big market stores (as much can be expected). Its nice that they employ local high school-aged kids to work there. Special ordering is available and is fast. Great cookbook section. read more

I ordered a book from MBC (thru AbeBooks, I'm sorry to say) because I could not find it in my library network. It arrived very quickly and in near-perfect condition, along with a crisp, sturdy bookmark. (I know that sounds odd, but I collect bookmarks from all over.) I look forward to doing business with MBC in the future. I'm a happy customer. read more

Here's the thing, if you are looking to browse through stacks and stacks upon stacks and stacks and spend a lovely afternoon in book heaven, then this place is wonderful. It really is one of my favorite places to kill a few hours if I'm in the area. Go. Browse. Have a good time. What I would not go here for is if you are looking for something specific, or, quite frankly, if you are in a hurry. For efficient book buying, head elsewhere, for enjoyable book shopping Montclair Book Center is a great find. read more

I'm an antique book collector and go to the bookstore about once a month, Pros: Great Location Large Selection Cons: Questionable prices on some of the older titles Pretentious staff read more

If you love books old & new this is the store for you. The outside does the store no justice when it comes to how big this place really is. Every nook and cranny is packed with books; it's like a giant book maze comprised of three different levels. Needless to say, this place is filled with the aroma of books. All my fellow bookworms can appreciate that. Want something that's currently on the NYT Best Sellers List? Want a NKOTB memorabilia book? You'll find both here. They also have a variety of vinyl records in the lower level of the store. Much better selection than Urban's down the street and for much better prices. A gem! read more

I stopped in here with my husband the other day on one of our weekly foot-cruises around Montclair and couldn't believe the size of this place once we passed through its tiny storefront. Literally, books as far as the eye could see. Upstairs, downstairs, through doors, down hallways - this place is a labyrinth of books, records, and other random odds and ends. Given its size, you can only imagine the selection available here. But, in the rare case that you can't find the book you want - don't worry - the super friendly staff is ready and willing to help. They're even helpful if you don't know exactly what it is you're looking for! My husband and I were looking for a book of spiritual quote (from the Buddha and the like). The shop employee said he didn't know of a book like that, but they had an encyclopedia of quotes in the dictionary section. I'm sure if we knew the name of a book like the one we were looking for he would have ordered it in for us. The books are all kept in pretty good shape, well sorted and the like, and the sections are organized in a common-sense manner. Their prices are pretty decent, too. Definitely worth shelling out an extra buck or two to support a local business instead of getting it cheaper on Amazon (boooo!). Also, if you love the look of old bound books, they have a pretty hefty selection near the back of the second floor. The whole place just gives you that wonderful "Belle in the Library" kind of feeling (ladies, you know what I'm talking about). read more

You can roam the stacks for hours, but never get lost (at least not physically). Their selection is truly wonderful and interesting. I only wish I didn't have to check my bag(s). Then again, carrying all that extra weight around is doing no good for my shoulder. Luckily there is a massage place next door. read more

I'd give zero stars if I could. I called to make an appointment to sell books and was told to come in on a certain day. When I came it, I was treated EXTREMELY rudely by the manager, John. I'm super pregnant and was just trying to clear out some books, and this dude treated me like I was a liar. Might as well just go on Amazon and not give these rude people your money. read more

I wish I didn't just move out of Montclair or that I discovered this shop FAR sooner. I will commute from Brooklyn to this store because it's just THAT good. read more

Montclair Book Center - Bookstores Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

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This is possibly one of the best bookstores in the state. For us avid readers you can browse in here for hours. There are new and used books on every topic, a large childrens section and a room of art books. It encompasses two storefronts, an upstairs and a basement stacked floor to ceiling with books and the staff can answer any questions you might have. read more

What a GEM this place is. I am so impressed by the variety and also the overall neatness of this place. Is it weird to say I also really love the smell of this place? It just smells like quality books. The staff is nothing to rave about, I normally have to greet them first or they'll just ignore me. But not rude or bad either. Prices are amazing! I always come here and to Watchung booksellers. Both amazing and within a few blocks read more

This store completely surprised me. I've passed it many (a million?) times, and never had any idea how large it is! I finally stopped in because I was looking for a bunch of old hardcover books for a project. There was a great selection outside, for $2 a book! It was perfect. I did spend way too much time there after finding what I came for. The store goes back seemingly forever and even has several floors. I wasn't too impressed with the record selection downstairs, but I did love the wide array of books. The store was such a fun find. read more

This is simply one of the best used book stores on the East coast. Probably on either coast. Probably in the hinterlands as well. I'm not even including the vinyls in that assessment. Just a really great range of fiction and nonfiction, including many hardcover books in first editions. But not priced like first editions. Staff is very helpful, and on my last visit I even got some gratuitous poetry recommendations from one of them. Then they went out of their way to check and see if they had an obscure title I was looking for, and offered to track it down for me if they couldn't find it on the shelves. read more

I absolutely love used bookstores, and this one is no exception. Montclair Book Center has a huge space, although it may not look like it from the outside. The store really has character - it's not just one big room with shelves. As you walk around, you'll find a bunch of little nooks and crannies filled with more books. They also have a good record selection, although I can't speak much on that as I spent most of my time checking out the books. The store basically has three floors. The main floor, a balcony around the back room upstairs, and a basement. You can spend hours and you won't see everything. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is the prices - they are a little bit higher than than other used bookstores that I've visited. Overall, definitely worth checking out. read more

When purchasing new books they are doubled the amount of large retailers and charge for shipping. They are a small shop which is hard to compete but double is high and when expressing the owner hangs up. Also be care of your exchange book credits. They will tell you there is no expiration but then tell you differently when ready to buy a book. Also Peter the owner is nasty when setting up appts. I have shopped many times in this shop bu found they are not workable with the customer on exhanges and after many years the owners have a bitter tone. Who needs the nasty behavoir! read more

This place is great, you can get lost in there its so big if they dont have what youre looking for they will order it for you, i think thats great, books are new,and used depending what youre looking for the staff is extremely helpful.I try to get in there once a week even just to browse its a very calmng store nobody hounds you when you walk in great store only got 4 stars cause of no parking read more

This place is the tops. And the connected record store that expands deep into the basement is a perfect place to peruse until your arms are full and your heart's content. A really great little spot amidst the bustle of a great neighborhood. Head in. read more

I love this bookstore! It's on a side street in the heart of Montclair and the book variety is plentiful. There's an upstairs and downstairs. Most of the books that pique my interests are upstairs. They often have books outside the store for sale and the staff is cool and helpful. read more

I love this shop. I always seem to find a handful of books at decent prices. I can get lost in here for an hour, sometimes longer. Highly recommend to any bibliophile. read more

so, you may or may not have heard of this special bookstore in Jersey, where magical things happen...if you have, and you've been pondering, "where oh where IS this place of wonder actually LOCATED???"...well, this is that place. i'm just gonna be straight with you: people love this place. no seriously, they love this place. -if you tire of that clinical feel of those big name bookstores, come here. -if you are a bookworm from the roots of your pelitos to the chipped polish on your toes (yeah i know, i'm thinking of the ladies,) you should be here. -if you like exploring a bookstore with an almost vintage, sorta homey (not the clown,)librarious type feel...why aren't you here? some may even call it romantic... i'm jusayin. it's the best local spot to get your book, new or used; point blank period. and if they don't have what you are looking for, they will be happy to order it for you. you can even call in advance so you won't waste a trip! but c'mon, when is a trip to a cool bookstore like this a waste? i don't read much, but i've been in here a few times. the people that work here are really nice + knowledgable + helpful. also, every day they put out a rolling rack of on sale books on the sidewalk to grab the passerby bookworm in you that simply cannot resist perusing. they even have some used LPs. that's right, i just copped The Glamorous Life album by Sheila E for $4.99 the other weekend. hot, right? so, what are you waiting for? i might even be here... in Jersey, above a bookstore. read more

This is a cute and spacious book store in the heart of Montclair. They have a wide selection of used books to choose from (and I think some new) . You can get kind of lost in it's library like construction. It is kind of like gem hunting when you go there, you have sift though the undesirable material to find the good stuff. I got caught up in their cook book section. In this modern day of internet recipes most people don't like keeping the space for cookbooks. I like having the hard copy because I have found some great recipes on the internet only to have them lost in the abyss. Never to be cooked again! Plus you'll always find that one of a kind recipe you can't find online. I purchased a garlic and a herb cookbook. The prices here are affordable too so no complaints there. Also should add this place is great for kids and adults alike since they have children's books as well. I'll be sure to stop here again when I'm in the area! read more

Great place to pick up a book, especially if used appeals to you. In a charming area of town, with ample space completely filled with good books. I found an abundance of classics and random stuff like distopian alt. humanity. I didn't find some staples though (e.g. wanted anything by Asimov). That aside, great place. read more

A tiny little gem tucked away on a sidestreet where it's nearly impossible to park and even more difficult to find if you're driving. The Montclair Book Center is sort of like the Strand in Manhattan, but on a much, much smaller scale. If you're looking for a hard-to-find book, this is the place to go--somehow, the staff is always able to locate what you need in the dusty, seemingly disorganized stacks. And if by some chance they don't have the book of your dreams, they will order it for you and call you within a few days. It's Book Lover's Heaven! read more

A great independent book store that's been there forever and is big enough to get lost in.

Great pace for the book lover in your life. Great selection of hard-to-find books and all sorts of interesting subjects. Friendly customer service too. read more

I love this bookstore. I'm not from the area, so I've only been twice. Their selection of books is huge with many different sections. They have both new and used books at cheaper prices than typical cover prices. I love venturing through the twisty hallways and up and down the staircases. It's a cute, comfortable, and friendly atmosphere. read more