The Coffee Shelf

I love a good book, and I wanted to check this place out. I am one for a deal and if you neeed a…read moregift this is a grat place but if your just in need for a book to read and then return best to go to the libary. Books are not cheap and can get pricey over time. There are lots of great options, but be warned the prices are not always on the items, and I had to search for them. The building is clean, and the lady was very nice when I came in and was able to direct me to the right place.

As I approached the store the first thing I noticed was the Communist…read moreCovid shot sign on the door. Next were the employees in face diapers, then I grabbed some of the books I was looking for and heading up the center towards the register, I saw all of these demonic books. As I was waiting to purchase my books, there were two young children and one of them picked up this terrible Covid doll and that was the end for me! I turned around, put my books back on the shelf and walked out, never to return to this store again! This store apparently loves to throw all of the Communist, demonic stuff right in your face!

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Books On Broad and Coffee

4.6(28 reviews)

43.1 mi

I took my kids and the shop keeper/ barista was so sweet! Nice cozy atmosphere and they have tables…read moreto play chess and checkers. Great spot!

The coffee and smoothies have a great flavor! But the…read moreservice was so slow, we had tried it before and it took 15 minutes to get just 2 drinks. So we thought that it was just a rough day, which anyone can have, and we would try it again. When we went back weeks later, and it was even slower! It took over 45 minutes to get 2 drinks and 2 premade muffins! It was insane, and when I asked around the 30 minute mark how much longer it would be the barista/server was really cranky. After this experience I asked my daughter who had tried this place a couple of times too, how her experiences were and unfortunately she had similar issues. So if you try this place, make sure you have a lot of time to wait. Personally I don't think I will be going back anytime soon.

Coffee shop

Books

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Games and books while you coffee

Ed's Editions

4.8(14 reviews)

20.8 mi

Absolutely gorgeous bookstore in west Columbia. Tons of great selections and at a great price, it…read morewas hard not walking out with our arms full. Staff was very helpful and inclined to aid in our needs. Books of every genre were here. Loved this place, felt right at home.

This store is amazing! The staff know all in the store and they are all helpful. They have many…read moredifficult to find editions and reasonable pricing. I always enjoy coming here.

All of these books were $15 total!

So much character

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Beautiful bookstore

Barnes & Noble Booksellers

3.9(12 reviews)

23.3 mi

I love any bookstore or library especially when the staff is helpful. It appears this Barnes &…read moreNoble was a pillar of the Richland Mall, having withstood the test of time, it has remained unbothered while all surrounding businesses seemed to have perished. Which makes this store such a treasure. You can find a great selection of items and get your caffeine fix at the indoor Starbucks. The distinct sobering scent of brewed coffee grounds greets you at the entrance. The aisles are easy to navigate and of course there's wifi.

Sadly I don't really visit this location for the books (although I have bought a few for gifts for…read moreexpectant mothers and my nieces) but the cafe is a nice escape when I'm at the office. I've been visiting this location for over 5 years and the cafe staff are so friendly and despite my irregular visiting schedule, they remember my name each time I'm there. I also enjoy when they have after season clearance sales -- they will gradually mark items down to 50% off, then 75% off and the remaining will go for $1-2/item. The best time to check this out is after a holiday (think post-Easter / Halloween, etc.) as they will have a bunch of mark downs. I often find great little gift items to hold on to or fun surprises for myself (I got a cool kitchen scale one time for $2!).

The entrance from inside the study area.

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Grilled cheese

The Book Dispensary

4.2(22 reviews)

18.6 mi

This place was a treasure trove of fun finds! Books of all types - genres for all genders, ages and…read morelovers of literature! Sometimes they run a BOGO sale and I was able to catch this on Mystery/Suspense Novels and hooked a Hitchcock! Can't beat snagging 2 books for eight books! Great deal! They even take books in on trade to boot. The ladies that work there were very helpful and we found some neat things. They even have a nice selection or rare and first edition novels.

I've been to the book dispensary twice now and I will say, I love how many different types of books…read morethere are. I do have some problems, though. Firstly, the latest time I went, there were boxes of books everywhere, making it impossible to get into most sections. The childrens' section is quite small. The service is ok, but they are very unorganised, they said they had a book that I needed for school but they didn't end up having it. Their book trade in system is quite sloppy, I gave them $200 worth of old books and they gave me $15 worth of book credits. the value is terrible as well. A very rough looking book about Athens, Greece that I bought was $25, originally $25.50. Other than that, I love the place, I just wish it had better organisation and value.

Bird Tree

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Some nice mystery novels

Higher Grounds Books And Beans

5.0(5 reviews)

21.4 mi

It's a few months ago that I walked into this coffee shop while passing by downtown Columbia, so I…read morepromised myself to visit again when I had time to enjoy some tea and stay a while. The day came and what a lovely coffee shop to hang out in. They serve coffee, milkshakes, tea, and lunch. It's cozy but open so you can sit on a couch, high table, or play at a table. They have puzzles and games for people to engage in. They have soft music that will relax you. The ladies were lovely and welcoming. Guys just stop by and stay for a cup of whatever you like you won't regret it. Thank you.

Highly recommend you stop by if you are needing a coffee fix. I chatted with the lady behind the…read morecounter and she was so kind and sweet. Oh, there was also some delicious bark- maybe like four or five different kinds. I was a little shocked it was empty and I'm not sure if they get busy. This coffee shop is attached to a church and across from the hospital. If you're also looking for a quiet place to maybe study, this is it. It was clean and welcoming. Now if you're looking for a bookstore, they do have a bookcase of Christian books, but bookstore would not necessarily be an accurate description. She might be able to order books though. Bottom line-support them. Support small business.

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Second Wave Coffee & Books

4.2(38 reviews)

15.0 mi

I stopped into 2nd wave Coffee while I was in Lexington SC. The coffee was great! It is close to…read moreparks and had a cute outdoor space. I was so surprised on this location. It is so unique it offers different rooms in each room. It feels like you're in a cozy library. They also allow dogs which I loved. The furniture and shop is a little dated, but adds character. My pup and I sat in a room and took a couple meetings and it felt so cozy and comfortable. I felt like I was at home and had enough privacy.

People are great and you are supporting a great cause. Cozy and nice environment and we bring our…read moredog inside. In a stressful world we need more places to go like this.

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Barnes & Nobles

5.0(6 reviews)

25.5 mi

Happy Sunday! After service, hubby and I decided to stop in and grab a book for" our book date" we…read morehave every month.We purchase a book based on the subject, or just a general book. We both read our book for the month, come together with our wine, and charcuterie board then discussed parts of the book that impacted us in some way. Really exciting and fun, to not only highlight the book but just coming together conversing. I absolutely love Barnes & Noble! If you're a reader you know:) So if you're relaxing today, snuggle up with a good book from Barnes & Noble. They have great selections and I promise you will find a book that won't break the bank. Happy reading!

I just love a good book store! I was beyond excited that my son asked to go to the bookstore, I…read moremean I might have jumped up and down a bit. The bookstore was clean and inviting, we grabbed drinks at the cafe and browsed books for hours; never once did I feel rushed or pressured to purchase anything. It was a great day of book browsing and making our wish list.

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All Good Books

4.5(13 reviews)

22.5 mi

This bookstore is on the smaller side but it's definitely mighty with a few spacious spots for…read morepeople to sit and read or chat! They do have an outdoor seating area where I believe is put to good use during the warmer weather. I appreciate the up to date trendy books they have to offer! The staff is nice too. They also have merch such as tote bags and t-shirts you can purchase as well.

Probably the best book store in Columbia..and they serve wine! Aside from that they have a…read morerelaxing spacious reading area and back yard garden to sit & enjoy ur favorites. They have a great selection of hard to find and contemporary titles and the staff are so nice. They hold special events and have a variety of book clubs and a membership program that earns you discounts on coffee, drinks and other items. Check this place out..great vibe and chill space. They stay open late too which is a bonus.

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19 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Micah W.

10 years ago

I must say that I never give out reviews, they are simply passé to me personally, I also prefer to let the general public do their own bidding so to speak with their owns tastes in restaurants, etc and finally simply because there are many things taken for granted these days in the restaurant/hospitality business; not to mention I prefer to let the manager/owner know from me personally. Ok so that is out of the way, you have here a true slice of heaven in a little town called Chapin, this guy is the one doctor you need to see cure your ills! You simply cannot find a better cup of (love) coffee, from the wonderfully inviting atmosphere to the fantastic book selection, all while sipping down an amazing cup of joe, perhaps add in a crazy good pastry! This is a place that would make the scene if you're meeting a long lost friend, perhaps a relative you haven't seen in years or perhaps meeting up with that future loved one on a blind date for a simple afternoon coffee date. You have a humble, willing and passionate barista/owner who sees that the little things never go unnoticed; there are not many places left like this in the world as we seem to be spinning faster and faster each and every day. All this coming from a U.S Air Force vet who is always on the constant look out for a place to call relaxing, to be able to let go of all the temperaments, worries and pressures going on in the head; I am here to certify this place meets all of this and then some, this is your place to come let go, to call a home away from home; come on in, the doctor is waiting! Calling all patients!!! read more

Genevieve V.

Elite 26

276

318

568

8 months ago

Coffee Shelf is a great little nook in the heart of Chapin. It's a place where friends can meet and work togethrr, or read together or just chat. It's also a place where you can get fancy coffees or just dripcoffee. Highly recommend if you're in the area. The best part is that they have books for sale, as well as a shelf where you can pick up a book and drop off a book for free. There's also a discount if you bring books back. Highly recommend checking it out next time you're in the area. read more

Autumn B.

10 years ago

The coffee is extremely good quality and tastes amazing, and the prices are reasonable for such great products. I personally thought it was better than the Wired Goat and Starbucks and much cheaper. The owner is very friendly and he has a really great selection of books. Very laid back and fun place to sit and enjoy good coffee and books read more

Carter B.

9 years ago

This is my all time favorite place on the planet. I love every single person that works here. The owner, Gerald, is one of the nicest people i've ever met. The baristas are so nice and treat me like family. I can always come here if i'm feeling sad or mad because it is just such a comforting place to be. read more

Amy W.

121

10 years ago

As a creative work from home professional I love coming here to get work done. A great place to relax and work amoung the coffee and books. The staff will go above and beyond to make sure you get what you want. Their knowledge of books is unsurpassed as well. read more

Edgardo M.

8 years ago

Amazing little coffee shop with a variety of products. Staff is very friendly and did everything to make my very first experience the best! Between the books, coffee, and the environment of the place it is definitely a place to come back over and over again! read more

Jane B.

5 years ago

Our famliy travels to Chapin to visit relatIves and we stop here on our way out of town. The coffee is wonderful and the atmosphere is friendly and nice. Would love to spend more time here reading a book and trying all of the various choices. read more

Andrew D.

8 years ago

Great coffee and atmosphere! The staff was very sweet and helpful. Very accommodating and cozy. Working for a coffee shop myself, it's nice to see how other places are in comparison to mine, and this one is right on par in service and quality! read more

Jerry C.

170

3 years ago

Best coffee house in the SC midlands! They are also a bookstore. But the coffee is the reason to go. The frozen drinks are amazing. And if you love pure black coffee, check out their single origin pour overs. Pastries are also very good! read more

Rick A.

8 years ago

This crew is awesome! Great coffee and drinks, relaxing place to hangout, enjoy your drink and pastry along with a good selection of books. Baristas are quick, witty and a pleasure to deal with. Definitely going back - often! read more

Gene C.

10 years ago

Books and coffee, the perfect combination. The service is consistent and great. The coffee is even better. You owe it to your self to give " the Coffee Shelf" a try. You won't be sorry. read more

Emily O.

7 years ago

The Great Gatsby is amazing, I love this place. Good price for amazing coffee and a nice place to go and do homework or hang out with your friends. read more

Nancy W.

227

8 years ago

The coffee is great and the pastries are amazing! This is a great place to meet for coffee and catch up with a friend or grab a cup to go!

Andrea S.

5 years ago

Friendly staff & delicious coffees. Their online order is convenient & easy to use. Great if you're in a rush!

Marie-Claude D.

4 years ago

Always nice, coffee is excellent, prices fair, nice atmosphere! A place to go to feel comfortable and welcome.

Jeni O.

137

10 years ago

Love the service and the coffees they make are amazing!! Nice little hole in the wall and very cozy!!

Morgan C.

291

8 years ago

Great customer service and atmosphere! Love this place! My children love their frozen concoctions!

J W.

5 years ago

Fast and friendly. Coffee is great and if you need a good book , they have them too !

Mark M.

5 years ago

Outstanding service and quality every time. Highly recommend!

The Coffee Shelf - coffee - Updated September 2026

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