Every university town requires a shambly old bookstore with overflowing shelves whispering wisps of arcana to all who pass its portal. This is Urbana's. My favorite thing about this particular emporium of tomes, though, is that the kindly gentleman who owns it is a dead ringer for a beloved childhood fictional character, Professor Branestawm. read more

Priceless Books - Bookstores Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

The best part of used bookstores is the element of serendipity. I find books I have loved that I never knew existed, and would never have known to search for them. New bookstores, in my view, are very limited in scope -- the owner has a particular taste, majority of titles (not counting classics) have been published in the last 1-5 years, from major publishing houses, almost everything has been on the NYT besteller's list. Very little element of surprise, few hidden gems. Used bookstores have so much more serendipity, so many hidden gems, so much more variety. And Priceless Books has this element of used bookstores, but twice as much as any other used bookstore I've been to. And I've been to a lot! On every road trip, if I'm just passing through, I check out their used bookstores. This one's special. Yes, it's messy and there's piles of books on the floor blocking the path (definitely not a wheelchair friendly store). Yes, you have to crane your neck to view titles up on the shelf. Yes, the store clerk is not gregarious (but does have a twinkle in his eye). But it's worth it! I have found so many books that my here that my life feels more complete having read them, and I never would have known of them if not for this store. This can be said of many a used book store, but Priceless Books just has more of it, and it's something special. read more

What a mess of a bookstore. I loved it. This is not your Barnes and Noble. I don't think there's a Dewey decimal system in place here. I do think there is some kind of organization and the sweet elderly gentleman is doing his best. I felt right at home here. I found what I was not looking for. Yet, have been searching for years. I can't wait to come back to this tiny treasure. read more

As there is only one other book store of this sort in Champaign, I suppose the comparisons with Jane Addams (in downtown Champaign) can't be helped. While I appreciate the organization and atmosphere of Jane Addams, I have found far more gems in Priceless Books. There is a high turnover on stock at Priceless Books, and I have been able to purchase all kinds of obscure manuals, anthologies, and critical essays there. For those who love classical music, the store also carries a large collection of CDs. When it comes to price, I would say that Priceless Books and Jane Addams are comparable, though Jane Addams is usually more expensive for the type of books I read (classic literature). Hardbacks are, of course, in a more expensive range (usually more than $15), but most books at Priceless Books are about half the cost of the original cover price, assuming the book was printed in the last 10 years. Sometimes you can find real steals, as I was able to buy a limited-print anthology (still in good condition) for $13, whereas the original value of the book was around $60. If you have been spoiled by the modern bookstore (like Borders or Barnes & Noble), the general structure of this place would be a nightmare. The shelves are literally so loaded by books that they look on the verge of collapse. Printed labels used to designate themes for each section often do not correspond with the books actually found there (hint: look one shelf over and you'll likely find the section you want). Even given its faults, I can't help but call Priceless Books my favorite used bookstore in the area. Each visit, I spend hours browsing its shelves, and I am rarely disappointed in what I can find. read more

This used bookstore is impossible to navigate, and even as an experienced thrift shopper, I really cannot stand it. The books are in piles on the floor throughout the store, and there are no section headings or any kind of categorizing system, whatsoever. Granted, for any good thrifting experience, you have to take your time and really hunt for a bargain. However, there are no bargains to be had hear. Despite the twin cities of Urbana-Champaign being a college town and bursting at the seams with academics, it does not seem that many sell their used or unwanted texts here. There is just a lot of nonsense between these stacks. This also suggests to me that perhaps they do not buy books for reasonable amounts, while I would say that comparably they overcharge for the generally very damaged fare. If you are looking to buy or sell used books in the Urbana-Champaign area, I would highly recommend the Jane Addams Book Shop (www.janeaddamsbooks.com). They have a huge selection--three whole floors--which are clearly organized, provides an extensive leisure and academic assortment, and everything is a bargain buy. This is all not to mention the extremely helpful service of the new ownership, something that cannot be said of Priceless Books. read more

I found quite a few books at Priceless that I was pleased to add to my library. I probably spent about 3 hours in there on my day off, and the entire experience was a pleasure. I'm glad we have a good used shop that carries some literature that falls roughly in the "experimental" category. I saw no indication of grumpiness from the guy working the counter. That being said, I did not ask him for anything. But, I wouldn't. My sense of how used book stores work is something like this: you go to see what they have, not to find something specific. If you are looking for a specific title, it's probably a better bet to buy from Amazon, but if you want to stroll around and happen into things, this is a good place to do so. read more

Take your time to browse and be open to new possibilties. I purchased many used books at this shop, and plenty of sheet music, all for killer deals. It's always a required stop on my downtown Urbana excursions. Many used stores don't survive with high rents and chain competition, so please patronize your local used bookstore. read more

I have been going to this store for years, and have NEVER seen a grump working there. The 2 guys are somewhat quiet, but very polite and helpful. I don't always find something, but that's the nature of the business. read more

The owner is a first class grump and the place is a mess. Minimum price seems to be $4.00 no matter what the condition of the book. Jane Addams books over on Neil St in Champaign is a much better experience all round. read more

I'm here visiting my boyfriend, and while he was at work I wanted to explore and find a good bookstore- after reading the reviews, I was expecting a grump but what I got was the complete opposite! The man working was so friendly! There's a lot going on inside with the books, but left with 2 for under $15! Will definitely be going back before I go back to NY and every time I come out here! read more

Typically the books we get are from Urbana Free Library, but last year I needed a book to get my son-in-law as a Christmas gift. While the selection isn't as large as the library, the prices are free and the staff were incredibly helpful. I will be stopping by before Christmas again this year, keep up the great service. read more

Amazing collection of second-hand CLASSICAL CDs at great prices (typically $4 to $6 each). The store is quite small so the CDs are shelved up to the ceiling but they are in alphabetic order by composer and easy to go through. I found some real bargains. Great store. read more

This is without a doubt a top-class used book store. It's very easy to come in to the store and walk out with a box full of books. There is incredible selection here abound with deep cuts and rare gems if you look in the right places. It is one of my favorite places in the Urbana-Champaign area. Must visit for any used book store enthusiast. read more