The Book Bin is a fun, local bookstore in downtown Salem that has been buying and selling books for more than 30 years. They have a great selection of used and new books and their prices were great. We found some really cute books for our little boy that he loved. For the feline friendly, the store cat on duty, a fat tabby, was really cute too. I'm happy we happened upon The Book Bin on our travels through Oregon. read more

I like supporting local independent stores. I'm trying to avoid the temptation to order off Amazon, where books are almost always cheaper. Buying here is good. If I need a specific book I call ahead to ask if it's in stock. I didn't rate higher because SELLING here is not a good experience. Don't come in (like I did) with books you bought new and never read. They offered me $2.50 for a book that was in immaculate condition (hadn't been opened) and originally cost $15. But, if you have good condition books that you've read before, you might find it worth selling here. They won't offer you much, but they'll offer you a few more bucks to accept a store credit instead of cash. Also, I'm dubious that this is actually a used book store, the prices are reasonable, but all the books seem to be new to me... I saw three books on the first floor that had little papers sticking out of them saying "USED." read more

It's ok. Not the best selection. Sometimes the staff can be less than friendly. Not a good kids section. They don't pay well for books so they don't get much good used inventory. But it's better than nothing. They have a small new section that is good. Wish a Barnes & Nobles would come to town. read more

I like this place. The atmosphere is great, quiet with friendly faces. the location is awesome, downtown salem is the best part of salem. selection is pretty good; while i have gone there sometimes and been disappointed to not find what im looking for, there have been other times that I have found things here I never thought I would. Parking can be tough, but thats not on the business to figure out since it IS downtown. I love the fun little trinkets they have by independent artists and such. Its really a great place and feels much nicer to be in than the big chains like B&N or Borders. I dig it! read more

I've lived here in Salem now for just over two weeks. I've been to this bookstore three times now. I guess I go because there really are no more independent bookstores around here. Oh well, such is life. The book selection is good. But the people that work there seem to be rather snobbish. They are the drive behind my opinion of this place. Otherwise it would receive four stars for the store itself. read more

Moderate selection of books. Clean. But rude unhelpful staff. Probably won't recommend to friends.

Don't get me wrong, I love bookstores and I love that downtown Salem has this store. The first time I went in there it felt like at home. I recently moved to Salem and going to bookstores is a big part of my lifestyle. My two-star rating comes from the fact that in the three months I've been going there (nearly once a week) I've noticed the book and other displays NEVER change. The books on the sale shelves near the magazine section never change and books in the sections I browse a lot - mystery and literature never change on the shelves. This makes browsing very boring after awhile. How are you going to find something new and exciting if the staff never rotate the stock? I don't get this as people are continuously bringing in books to sell. So the store is obviously getting new items. The manager should make it a point to change the book and displays at least once a week or so to generate some excitement and let customers know what new items have come in. I've noticed that most of the employees tend to congregate around the cash register talking, gossipping, laughing, etc. I'm usually in there for at least an hour (although it's getting more difficult to stay that long since the stock never changes) and this doesn't change. The employees don't move around much. They socialize at the cash register. I'm all for people enjoying their jobs and their co-workers but I think some discipline is in order. Put those people to work rotating the stock, changing displays and making the store more interesting for loyal customers such as myself and my partner. The last time I went in there (a few days ago) I told my partner I wanted to find a new bookstore to go to as looking at the same books in the same configuration withe displays never changing was getting pretty boring. That's a shame as we enjoy walking around downtown and popping in there and we are good customers, too. We always buy something. Also the greeting card section is very stale. I buy a lot of greeting cards and I looked it over thoroughly the first time I went in there and it hasn't changed at all. Hello? Maybe you need to put out some new cards. If the ones that have been there for months and months haven't sold what makes anyone think they are going to sell now? I hope management takes a hard look at how the store looks to loyal customers and others and takes some action to rotate the stock and change the displays once in awhile. read more

I found a list online, of the top 10 books to read before they became movies. My daughter and I wrote them all down and then headed to The Book Bin. I was quite surprised to learn they only carried 1 out of the 10 books on our list. Quite disappointing. I am sure I will return sometime, but I don't normally purchase books brand new and will probably stick with Readers Guide in West Salem for my used book purchases. read more

Staff could be more friendly or I would give 5 stars. I asked a staff person about a book and whether she'd read it or not. She made me feel like I was an idiot because she began to quiz me on books I had read and whether or not I understood the genre. Uh.. Wha--? I do love to buy books here because i love to support local businesses, but I just wish the staff were more personable. I wish I could say this shop felt like the place I could spend an hour or two in, but that's not the case. I buy books here, and I try to leave quickly because the staff makes me feel uncomfortable. I bought a damaged book and the person charged me full price still. read more

The other day I accidentally bought a book I already owned. I tried to return it a few days later. Sadly for me it was four days after I had bought it and they will only do returns up to 3 days after purchase. I understand they do this to prevent people from treating the store as a library so I brought both of my copies in to prove it was just a simple mistake on my part. I asked if an exchange was possible if not a refund. Apparently this was impossible. It seemed clear to me, that despite my 15 years of being a loyal customer and having bought hundreds of books from this store, that keeping my 25$ was more important than keeping me loyal. For me this was the straw that broke the camal's back. If I'm going to be treated like a walking wallet I might as well buy online where books are often far cheaper with a much larger variety and no mark up for "service". read more

Great bookstore. Helped clean my bookshelves. Often, I was able to get cash or credit. As far as I know, Book Bin is the only place in Salem to carry Doctor Who Magazine. My only negative is that they are no r currently taking Graphic Novels. It was nice when I had credit to use for the Doctor Who magazines. Now I have to pay cash. read more

I really like the book bin(in my opinion) because we can trade/sell/buy and you do not have to borrow which is nice to those out of town. They have so many books! I love it also because it is quiet like a library. At least 1/3 of my book collection is from the book bin. read more

Go to the one on Lancaster. Much better and friendlier employees there--seriously! Decent selection of books, but that's about all.

just a great bookstore and all that a real bookstore should be including a staff that is friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about books

I quite like this bookstore! I don't purchase lots of used books, so I can't really comment on that, but I like their selection of new items and the employees are very knowledgeable and always know where everything is. Their prices aren't bad, they're open late, and they're in a central location downtown with lots of parking around. Obviously it's no Powell's, but I love that we have a local bookstore and not a Barnes&Noble or something like that. read more

I am so happy a place like this exists. I was doing some last minute Christmas shopping and felt uncomfortable in every store I visited except this one. As soon as I walked through the door I felt like a kid in a candy shop. Soooo many book choices and the best part is the price. A ton of the books are used but you would be hard pressed to notice that fact on your own. Really good condition books for great prices. This is the best! read more

My addiction to books superseded my pride. Same staff member was initially rude again, but then turned into a bubbly font of knowledge. Perhaps she doesn't know that she's brusque. I am giddy with the treasure I found-Out of print history books, with information not yet loaded into the internet!! I know it seems surreal after 20 years online, but there is still hidden knowledge to explore off of the www. read more

Although they do not always have what I am looking for - the staff is always willing to help me look - or help me locate it elsewhere. It isn't THEIR fault I have abstract taste and want cheap prices to boot! When you can walk in and say Outlander - and they know EXACTLY which series you are looking for without another question - that is a ++ rating in my book! read more

Great place for sweet deals/used books! Additionally, the staff is very friendly and helpful. :)

I really want to like this place since it is an independent bookstore. As an enthusiastic reader it was one of the first stores I visited when I moved to Salem five years ago. They have a good selection of new and used books, and on the right day and with the right person you can get good service. However, much of the time service is at best indifferent, at worst actively hostile. On my last visit I approached the counter to ask about a book I had placed on hold. Naively, I thought I would be greeted by the cashier and asked what I needed. Instead, all I got was an impertinent look of weary indifference. Recognizing what I was contending with, I told her what I was there for. She turned her back to me and stared off at the other side of the store. I spotted the book I had ordered on the shelf she evidently didn't know was within a foot of her and I told her where it was. We completed the transaction which concluded without a thank you or any other acknowledgement, which was a step up because given her attitude I expected worse. At a few other times in the store I have been courteously assisted, and purchased books with the helpful recommendations of staff. Unfortunately, that is not the norm. Having worked in retail I know the job is difficult. When I was working with customers I found that things always went better with just a bit of courtesy. I hope management will address this problem. read more

Very nice book store -- new and used intermixed -- with very helpful staff. They have a good selection of local / NW maps (which is what brought us in to the store originally). We left with a stack of books ranging from Roald Dahl to Robert Browning, a magazine, some fine postcards, and a recommendation for a good nearby coffee shop (the governor's cup). Definitely worth a visit. read more

The Book Bin is a great new and used bookstore. I bought a paperback I thought was new but it was actually used. It was in very good condition and only cost a few dollars! The store is big, clean and the staff were very friendly. read more

Great store, great space, great location (grab a coffee at gov cup and head over or vice versa) residents of Salem who want an independent bookstore here need to come out and support this place, its the only one we have. read more

Book Bin is a terrible place to go for CHEAP books. Their books are extremely over-priced. Not to mention, one of the most unfriendly staffs I have ever seen. Sure, they do have tons of books, but that doesn't change how unfriendly the people are. I took some books to sell, and the guy barely glanced at them, and handed them back to me. Of all the times my husband and I have been, the staff has never been nice to us. If someone asked me to name a good place to get books, where the people don't look at you like you should leave, I'd recommend Escape Fiction or Reader's Guide. The Friends Store in the library is far from the size of Book Bin, but I'd rather go there anyday over this place. read more

Super disorganized and darn near impossible to find anything, at least in the kids section. Generally love to support local book stores but this place is a disaster. Prices are way more expensive than Powell's and Amazon. The white, short-haired gal was very friendly and tried to be helpful. She was nice enough. The Asian gal was asked to help her find 1 of 3 copies of a book that even they couldn't find in their disorganization. What tipped it for me was this other lady, instead of giving me the courtesy and talking to me, just told the first employee what she should have me do within earshot of me. Then as she leaves without hardly acknowledging me proceeds to tell me to have my toddler be careful with the books (he had very briefly dropped a book and is very good about picking books up after dropping them. Yes he had a heavier book than he could handle but thanks for the courteous service). I felt badly I was a little peeved at that point in my parting interaction with the first employee. She was really very nice. read more

Really cute little bookstore. :) Loved the organization and old school vibe. They also had a great blend of old and new. Can't wait to frequent this place when I move to Salem in Oregon! read more

This is one of my usual stops downtown. The shop has a cozy atmosphere, which you'd expect from an independent bookstore. They carry a good deal of new and topical books in addition to used. It's a deceptively large selection with something for everyone. I don't always buy but I always find something interesting. They also host a poetry reading once a month and have live music during the holidays. read more

Great bookstore! It's one of those downtown, historic district staples. The staff are attentive and friendly. It's also conveniently located near the governor's cup coffee shop. Enjoy! read more

Absolutely horrible customer service. Cashier refused to sell me the book I was trying to buy. I have a DEBIT card with a PIN NUMBER and he treated me like it was a stolen card. I'm NEVER shopping at this book store again. I will drive to Beaverton to Powell's instead! read more

I bought 2 books here that I then received as Christmas presents so I brought back the two I had bought, with the receipt and the manager told me that she would not accept them even though the books were in the exact same condition as when I bought them. They were in good enough condition for them to sell them to me but not good enough to take back? I was only expecting in store credit mind you, not a refund. I will not ever shop at a Book Bin again. read more

Salem's Biggest and Best Book store (and used book store). The staff are always friendly and have never had an issue. However since Borders closed they have started to focus more on New books and their used book supply is pretty crowded so they can be pretty picky. But I just take what they don't want up to Portland to Powell's. read more

I've always had great experiences there, but tonight they went above and beyond. My daughter called earlier and they were so kind and eager to find the book she needed and keep it on hold for her. I, however, was running very late from work but despite this, the staff waited for my arrival even though it was a few minutes after they were set to close. I now have one very happy and relieved 12 year old. Thank you! We'll continue to be life long customers. read more

I love the Book Bin! They have an excellent selection of new and used books: historic/classic literature, metaphysical, sci-fi, self-help, sports, horror, suspense, romance, biographies, hobbies, children's books, new releases. The atmosphere is comfortable and open. The prices are a bit steep on some of the books, but the selection is awesome. I would recommend it to anyone! read more

i love this shop!!! The people there are super cool and friendly. i always know when I go there that i will find what i want for a really good price. If your ever in Salem and are looking for a a good used or new book store.. The book bin is the place to go!!!! read more

This is a great bookstore, and a Salem staple. Whether you're from out of town or a local that just hasn't been here before, definitely give it a shot. read more

I like everything about this bookstore except the staff. Doesn't matter when or what day I visit, the staff is composed of people who act like they're still in high school and trying to be the most popular, obnoxious people EVER. You can hear them gossiping wherever you go in the store - very hard to concentrate on the frickin' BOOKS you came to...maybe purchase. Maybe just end up leaving because you can't even hear yourself think. I've considered returning with some earplugs, but really - ? Shouldn't have to even ponder that. Owner: listen up! Several people on this site have said what I'm saying now. Don't hire your buddies - don't hire people who love to talk about themselves all day. Let them work in some coffee shop somewhere else. PLEASE! Hire some quiet people who love people who love books. I'm sick of hearing your staff brag about their personal lives in very loud voices...for as long as I can stand it until I'm driven from the store. Empty-handed. read more

I was excited to visit one of the only local, independent bookstores in Salem. When I entered, I found the interior surprisingly welcoming. However, their attitude toward customer service has dissuaded me from ever going back. My mother purchased a gift for me from the Book Bin that I couldn't use. It was unopened with a bar code sticker on the back that clearly read "Book Bin." When I tried to return it about a week or so later, I was told that they only take items back within three days, and only if you have a receipt. That *might* be an acceptable policy for books to prevent people from reading and returning, but for a gift item it seems pretty inflexible. I actually did not even ask to return the item, but to exchange it (I planned to buy a book instead), and they would not help me, even when I pointed out that I would be spending more than the item was worth and paying the difference. They expressed no regrets about the policy at all. I'm sorry to say that if small bookstores like this one want to have any hope of competing with big, convenient web-based retailers, they're going to have to be more personable and make the experience of shopping more pleasant. Bottom line: if you're going to buy something from here, make absolutely sure you won't be taking it back, or if you do need to, make sure you get a receipt and hustle over there--they won't be forgiving. read more