I love when staff recommends additional books and walks me over to find items. I was there for poetry, literature, and literary criticism. Can't wait to come back next month. Easy parking. Super helpful staff. Wide selection. Great prices on first editions. They also accept apple pay. read more

I definitely pictured something else before meeting some friends here a few weeks ago. I have to say I was COMPLETELY overwhelmed and anxious. I did look at the small childrens book section and did not end up purchasing anything as they were priced higher than I was expecting. I also did a quick walk around before letting my friends know I was going to head outside, and most of them followed me as they were also feeling overwhelmed. The one guy I saw was very helpful and friendly with showing me where the childrens books were. read more

Planet Books - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

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What a privilege it is to have a place like Planet Books! Not having read any reviews before coming in, I didn't know what to expect. To say I was pleasantly surprised would be to understate it. Rows and rows of books greet you, from $1 (yes, $1!) paperbacks to vintage mysteries to leather-bound volumes in the back and even a small vinyl collection. There's also a smattering of unique limited edition prints, photographs, and paraphernalia throughout. Pull up a chair and read awhile, too; plenty of armchairs stationed throughout the store. I found a copy of Dave Eggers' Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius (which has been on my list awhile) right at the door, and it took all my self-control to not leave with every beautiful copy of Whitman or Steinbeck. This would be such a great place to come with fellow book lovers or to find a unique gift for a bookworm in your life (or yourself). No doubt I will be back - and soon! read more

Planet Books - Anne Rice and Stephen King novels - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

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The good: Quite a few beautiful hardcover books, including a pristine Easton Press set of Jane Austen in red leather. Saw a few collectible young adult hardcover with sprayed edges. it was mostly the usual sorts of books on god, books on war, Impressionist painters, and diet cookbooks nobody liked the first time around. The bad: In lieu of air conditioning there are several extremely loud industrial fans going, so you won't hear when the ancient clerk sneaks up behind you to ask you for the tenth time in as many minutes if you have any questions. I assure you, sir, that I am well acquainted with both books and used book stores, and should a fleeting glimmer of a question pass my mind I am sure I can find you within these walls. SO GO AWAY. The sad: The books were so old. I am not talking about the collectible vintage noir and pulp fiction, though he has an entire room of those. I am talking about guy-coded sexist sci-fi like Piers Anthony and Barbara Cartland in the romance section. The owner should get a couple of high school interns to help him move out the old stock as bulk lots on eBay or similar sites and get some new titles in. read more

The used book trade is an art form. James of Planet Books is a master of the craft! Go in and spend some time at their new location - you might not go with a friend but you will come away with one and an arm full of great books! James wishing you at least twice the business you hope! All the best Edward Moondance from Santa Monica read more

Are you a collector of books, vinils and pictures? This place is a Disneyland for you! You can pass hours to find a treasure. Really cool places to spend time. The value depends on the object, cheap or expensive. The service is friendly. read more

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What a gem! Big used bookstore with lots of older books. They're super nice inside and have a lot of knowledge on all the books. Tons of little nooks for you go read and relax. Can't wait to come again! There isn't any directory of books so you just have to peruse around and hopefully find something you want -- but that's all the fun. Things are organized by category but a bit of a mess. Found a used book that came out recently for only $5! Good prices. Plenty of street parking. Located next to the Antique Mall. They accept debit/credit as well. read more

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Absolutely amazing used bookstore. I love this place with all of my heart. The owner is a polite gentleman who's as helpful as he can possibly be. There is a wonderfully overwhelming amount of books, so bring your patience. I was very lucky that during my first visit here I found a paperback vintage copy of Frankenstein! James the owner said that "Frankenstein" never lasts long, especially during Halloween season. There are rows and stacks upon stacks of books. They are partially organized by genre and in some areas by author. There's always great music playing. They have other items too, a few albums, some vintage stickers, and more pop culture memorabilia. As always, support small, local businesses! Planet Books is truly exceptional. read more

This has got to be one of the best thrift books shops I've been too! Located in the middle of an industrial area, it's definitely easy to miss so keep on the lookout. Lots of street parking and some parking available right in front. It's legit a warehouse packed with so many books and vintage posters, pins, records, vhs, and dvds! I caught them at a time where they were reorganizing so I was maneuvering through piles of books and things weren't the most organized. Books were pretty dusty. But it was still really fun to look through! They've got such a great selection of older paperbacks. So many covers with cool artwork that you don't see nowadays. I found an old edition of Anthem by Ayn Rand that had such a cool cover that I just had to get it even though I already own a newer version of it. They do have some newer titles too but not very much. Fiction ranges from westerns, sci-fi, fantasy, mysteries, thrillers. They've got a lot of nonfiction too but I didn't really look there lol. Workers were very helpful and friendly, if not kind of difficult to find behind all the books. Pricing was great! I got 4 small paperbacks for $1 each, one hardcover for $5, and a boxed set of paperbacks that was supposed to be $10 BUT the guy at the register ended up giving me everything for $15 and a tote for free! Shoutout to him, I was really not expecting that bit of kindness! Also, everything I got was in great condition, most of the books didn't really seem like they'd been read before just very old with age. Overall, I had such a great experience here! This really is the best thrift book shop you're going to find with the best deals aside from public library sales! They've got such a great and large selection with some very friendly staff. If you're looking to find some vintage books and spend hours browsing, check this place out! read more

Planet Books - 9 books for $15!!! - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

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The staff were super helpful and very friendly, trying to help me find books off my list. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to locate anything I was looking for, but if I lived closer I'd be back all the time to check what they had new in stock. It's a big air conditioned space, and it was comfortable to browse even in the hot summer months. Would recommend swinging by if you're in the area. Most paperbacks of old titles were $5 from what I saw, some more popular ones edging up to 7 or 8, so it's all reasonably priced. read more

Went to Planet Books back when they were a tiny space on Anaheim. Now they are in a huge space next to the antique mall off PCH. If you want a place to wander for a while, this is the spot. You could know what you're looking for and may or may not find it...be willing to dig and squeeze through tight spaces if you want it bad enough. I found what I was looking for right away- another original copy of Suetonius Lives of the Caesars from 1957. While wandering, I found a cool picture book from Woodstock and an old Triumph Motorcycle Catalog. You can find some cool books here if you're patient. And the prices are reasonable. Different owners own different sections of the space I think, much like how antique malls are set up. read more

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I love coming into Planet Books! The owner is one of the kindest men I have met and full of book knowledge! He is kind and patient with questions and will help you either locate a book you're interested in or provide recommendations based on the book. Great selection of books, you'll get lost for hours (in a good way). Keep in mind they'll be moving locations in April! read more

Went here to buy some second hand books and got more than I bargained for. This place is a treasure trove. I recommend checking it out if you have time to wander. read more

This place is HUGE. Found some great finds and had a fun time searching through everything. The gentlemen working were very friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely recommend!! read more

Planet Books - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

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The most amazing bookstore in the world a collection to live for it's a must visit rare books if you're a collector or love books you would have to visit read more

There's some of that Acres of Books vibe here. It requires some digging, the staff is grizzled but helpful. You never know what you're going to find and nor do they. The shop is spacious and easy enough to find sections but you have to be patient and ya-gets-what-ya-get. Prices are solid and often negotiable. The folks here want you to read ultimately and that's all that counts. read more

Once upon a time, this Faerie Queen was on the hunt for great books for middle school/high school readers. What a wonderful place to dive in and explore! New finds, old favorites, and enough reading to make the day of any bibliophile! The owners are kind and knowledgeable. Can't wait to return. The end. read more

Great local bookstore very hidden in a commercial area. Plenty of parking in front and on street. Right next door to a pretty big antique shop also worth going to. Books pretty scattered but owner definitely knows what he has. Ask questions and he will guide you in the right direction. Bought a couple books off of him already. With the books being used definitely give a great price. Will come back. read more

This has got to be the strangest bookstore I've ever been in. There are all kinds of unlikely books to be found here. There are mostly a load of paperback novels, and yes, high school yearbooks of all things. Lots and lots of books. There are also some interesting knick knacks for sale. The gentleman who works here is helpful and knowledgeable. Not quite sure where he gets his books, but he's busy pricing them to go out on the floor to be sold. read more

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One of the best kept secrets in Long Beach. It is a hidden warehouse just north of PCH near Obispo on a street called Freeman. This is the best bookstore that I have ever been to. The selection is INSANE. You can find anything that you want, not only books, but oversized books, rare books, foreign books, vintage books, toys, vinyl records, rare art. It is just a crate-digger's dream. To top it all off, the prices are affordable and the staff are the nicest, most knowledgable and friendly people you will ever meet. Do yourself a favor and go to Planet Books at least once. read more

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Planet Books is one of those truly unique bookstores where you can find a plethora of all kinds of titles. The one thing I noticed about this bookstore the moment I walked in is that they have a very large selection of vintage yearbooks. This is something that you'll find at very few bookstores. So, if you're looking for that old high school yearbook that you threw away many years ago, you may very well find it here. But, more than that they have a truly large selection of books on all subjects. They also have a very nice collection of signed and rare first editions. More than just a bookstore, this business also sells a lot of truly unique collectibles. They have signed photographs, they have football helmets, they also have nice selection of vintage toys. In other words, you can find all kinds of great stuff in this store. The shop is very easy to find as it is right off of Pacific Coast Highway. Once inside, you'll find a very large, airy, and well organized shop. Overall, great place to find that rare book you were looking for or a truly unique items such as a vintage toy. read more

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Book lovers delight! Amazing selection of used books in every subject you could imagine. They also have unexpected antiques and other collectibles. The owner is super helpful also! read more

What a warehouse of books, vinyl records, and toys! I am a lover of books and vinyls. I can never have too many. Lately, I have been on the hunt for cookbooks, from the 1940's all the way up to present day. Found a really cool Japanese cocktail book in the very organized collection of food books. And of course, all other books are in their sections as indicated on the shelves. Can't wait for husband mix me up some adult libations. And another gem I discovered after much digging, a Sonny and Cher record album. Yes! This is another one of my weaknesses, vinyls (ever since the late 70's) One of the owners helped me at the counter. Super nice man. He even offered to cover my book with a dust jacket. Wow! This makes the book look brand new! (What a perk and such customized service!) There was also a gal working there that day and was really friendly and personable. She noticed my vinyl purchase and thought it was cool. Yay! I will be a returning customer for sure. Until next time. read more

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Easily one of my favorite used bookstores (unfortunately a dying breed). You could always find a hidden gem in here

An absolute fabulous cacophony of books. Reminiscent of a smaller version of the old "acres of books store". Not only do they have a very decent sized array of used books to choose from, it's also has old artwork, paintings, autographs, vintage Bric-a-brac, Comic selections, science fiction and such. This is a great store for Used books and hard to find this style of store around these days. read more

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Checked this place out right by the Antique Mall and it's such a hidden spot! The owners were very cordial and helpful and a great selection of books. read more

Recently got obsessed with Stephen King, but of course, as soon as I started looking for his books at thrift stores and used bookstores, I couldn't find any, even though I swear, when I wasn't looking for them, they were everywhere. Finally, I came to Planet Books, and I found so many King books (paperbacks) at a spectacular price ($1-$3). There were also hardcover copies and rare editions that the worker (owner?) showed me, so if you are interested in collectables, you should ask the workers, as they seem to have many behind the counter. read more

Planet Books - All from Planet Books! - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

I love this place! I just discovered it today next to the antique store and the gentleman working is very knowledgeable. There are loads of books from all types of genres, and there's even a great selection of foreign books. Very affordable as well. Highly recommended! read more

I will return to this location if only to chat with the owners. Books are all over the place and the Guys can tell you where to find what you need. It's not fancy and it is one of those that are dusty and I didn't see a lot of recent releases but let's be honest that is not why you come into gems like this. You come here for those HTF (hard to find) treasures. They had an amazing collection of 1st edition books especially of Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys. Respectfully Reviewed read more

Planet Books - LOADS & LOADS of vintage books! - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

This place is amazing!!! Love the selection and there are so many cool things. James is awesome and so helpful. I could spend hours browsing! My new go-to place. Highly recommend! read more

This is such a cool place! I was in awe walking in with all the things you can find inside. It can be a bit overwhelming but it makes the hunt much more exciting! The books are in good condition and they even have rare and signed books. I highly recommend checking it out. They have cool posters and vintage toys all over too! read more

Planet Books - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

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The owners are eager to help you find what you're looking for. The atmosphere is very vintage and nostalgic. Come here for hidden treasures! read more

This is a huge warehouse-type space with a ridiculously immense selection of used books, including big coffee-table books, all at tiny prices. The guy with the beard knows everything. The customer service is wonderful: they even cleaned off the dust-jacket of a book I bought there recently, and put a clear plastic cover over it! I highly recommend this wonderful place, especially if you intend to buy a gift for someone! Best used book store I've seen in years. Possibly the best used book store in the world. read more

This place has everything, and it's surprisingly well organized. The owner is knowledgeable and helpful. Even if you're not looking for anything in particular, this is a fantastic place to wander and pull a book off the shelf to read awhile. read more

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I really wanted to fall in love with this place and came with an open mind, but got lungs full of dust! If you are sensitive to dust, be warned. The place is massive and the antiques are fun to look at. We tried to buy a used theater book that did not have a price tag- the owner asked for $40. read more

Such a cute place. I went there for the first time and I fell in love. Will definitely come back.

This place is great!! Found a few great vintage books and the owner was super helpful. Prices weren't crazy either. Lots of new stuff as well. Will be back! read more

This is my favorite book store ever. Unreal selection of classics that you won't see anywhere else. Cash only and great prices on everything. I could spend an entire day in this place it's a big warehouse filled completely. Some of my finds include, Jurassic park, do androids dream of electric sheep, andromeda strain, journey by Michener, skeleton crew, Martian chronicles, no country for old men, young lions, prey and so much more. read more

Planet Books is a GOLD MINE for Book and Toy lovers in Long Beach!!! Mike is very friendly and great at helping you out finding that particular book. Plus, the Great prices and LARGE selection of books makes this store an excellent experience. Highly recommended to anyone visiting Long Beach!!! read more

Planet Books - Lots of Books!!! - Bookstores Near Me - Signal Hill, California

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This story has two of my favorite things, old books and old toys. I was able to chat with the owner, who is well known in the toy world, and found some toys from my childhood. This is the place to go for sports memorabilia too! read more