My son, just like me and his grandpa are avid readers. We've probably been to every book store in Orange County. I spotted Verbatim while looking for parking for a pho and pokemon store down the street. This store has the variety I love, new release copies along with formerly loved ones. We were looking for NBA books but they didn't have any, but they had everything else the 12 yr old loves to read. They even carried an impressive Southeast Asian collection for Cambodia which is what my Pha had every single copy of already. read more

I have driven by this used bookstore hundreds of times. And finally, I got the chance to go in. It is a delightfully decorated,thoughtful place full of cleanly displayed books from baby board books all the way up to books you have to ask for help to see because they're protected. Plenty of people working there. Everyone seemed to enjoy their job. And there's a cool Zine corner in the back, which I loved. They buy used books which was good to know. Parking is on the street or in a nearby structure. read more

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I love everything about Verbatim. That they buy books. That they give you more for store credit. That they have puzzles at the front that you can do while you're waiting. The shear volume of books. Old books, newer books, kids books. It doesn't get better. The staff are so kind. The price of the books are . Parking is typical North Park If you're looking to sell books it's Monday only 11-4. read more

Verbatim Books is one of those places you absolutely have to visit if you're a book lover. I've visited San Diego so many times I view it as my second home, but I never once stopped here. This bookstore sells both new and used books, and you can easily lose track of time perusing the stacks for hidden treasures. I loved how cozy the interior of the store is juxtaposed with the bright, mint green exterior. All of the staff is super nice and helpful. Now that I know what a great gem Verbatim Books is, I will be sure to visit again the next time I'm in the area! Highly recommended. read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

What good book store to go see This my 3rd time here and we met the artist that did the beautiful art mural he did on the wall of Verbatim He was super nice and shook hands Gorgeous art work we want buy it is amazing inside and out. I pick up 2 journals and a book I be back here so much to see They so nice to here read more

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Verbatim Books in North Park when in the area is a must visit. After getting iced strawberry lemonade from Subterranean Coffee across the street, I stopped in for a looksee. This books store has new and used books for all ages and a menagerie of stuff, some nostalgic vintage, comical, nonsensical and just entertaining. I'm a collector of lots of things, mostly luxury items and or things that have value. I've been at this bookstore many times but this time I was curious to see what valuable $$$$ books was available. The staffer Jon was pointed to the locked golden book case. Next to The Sexual Key to Tarot was The Ritual Magical Manual $650., appeared to be $$$$...but FYI There's a collection of books: The Bible, Dante, Dickens, Emerson, Molière, Poe, Voltaire, to name a few...all reproductions in golden edge pages, classically bounded for gifting or to showcase in your new library. Verbatim is not a hugh book store by comparison to The Last Bookstore in Downtown Los Angeles. Despite its moderate size, it still takes multiple visits to see and appreciate everything vintage, quirky and most of all enlightening. Worth visiting. Recommend read more

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What an amazing bookstore!!! I recently visited with friends after breakfast and we had such an amazing experience! I love the fact that they're reselling gently used books so it's sustainable. The prices are great!!! And they have a huge selection of books that I absolutely love! They also carry other stuff like tote bags, stickers, art, and stationary. I would highly recommend checking it out! read more

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Probably my favorite stop on the San Diego Bookstore Crawl! The cozy decor inside and the warmth of the service. Plenty of space for you to 'cop a squat' if you find a book you want to dive into before committing to purchasing. The books are in a orderly fashion. Lots of cool bibliophile gift items too in case you are looking for stationery as well, they offer a few items to select from; ie; Journals etc. Respectfully Reviewed read more

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I stopped in today for the first time and I loved the quirky & cute decor, and the overall atmosphere of this very special bookstore. Great selection of vintage and new books, and I noticed some real treasures here & there. I didn't purchase anything today, but several of the employees smiled at me and made me feel welcome. Browsing the stacks on the right side of the store is a little tight when people pass by each other, but c'est la vie. They have a great selection of cute merch and other bibliophile-types of accoutrements. If you are a book lover, or even a book liker, you will love this place. Peace. read more

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Stumbled upon this randomly while walking around North Park and so happy to have found it. It's the cutest spot! I love the decor and everywhere you look, there's something interesting. I ended up buying a romance book that was lightly used for only $12! It looks next to new. Prices here seem very fair & the employees were very nice. read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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Awesome place. Great selection. Some prices are steep, many are fairly priced. I walked out with three book. Cashier was really nice. Definitely check this place out. read more

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Made it over to the North Park Farmer's Market and noticed Verbatim Books for the first time and decided to go in. Wow. This is a very, very cool bookstore. read more

Verbatim Books - Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

By the time we found a parking space at North Park in front of this shop it had closed for the day. It has the coolest graphics on its exterior. Had to take a selfie here. Need to come back earlier during daylight hours to visit inside of the shop. read more

Verbatim Books - Exterior of shop, so fun! - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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Stopped by Verbatim Books with my sister in North Park. It's a great bookstore with tons of books to choose from. I loved the aesthetic of the interior and the staff was friendly! Would definitely stop by again. read more

Never thought I'd write a review about a book store but here I am. Verbatim Bookstore. It's the kind of place that reminds you why physical bookstores still matter It's one of those places that instantly slows you down--in the best way. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt intentional, almost cinematic. The collections are beautifully curated, and every aisle feels like its own story unfolding. You don't just browse here--you wander, you pause, you discover. There's a quiet depth to the space that makes you want to stay longer than planned. Each section flows naturally into the next, and you can tell real thought went into how the books are placed and how the store holds its energy. It's not overwhelming or chaotic--just rich, thoughtful, and inviting. read more

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Don't forget Verbatim for your bibliophile friends and loved ones this holiday season. New and used books, calendars, nick nack etc., all at reasonable prices. Verbatim always provides a couple of people to help you find what you're looking for. Some street parking, and a parking garage on the corner of 30th and University. read more

Walking into Verbatim Bookstore feels like stepping straight into a Harry Potter scene. The smell of old books and the whole atmosphere instantly gave me the most nostalgic feeling, like being back in our grade school library all over again. We spent a good chunk of time just browsing and soaking it all in. I even stumbled upon a series of Sweet Valley High tucked away in one of the racks, which was such a fun surprise! Needless to say we walked out with a couple of books in hand. The price was super affordable and the quality was good even though they were second hand. Staff were welcoming and friendly! If you're a book lover or just looking for a cozy and unique spot to explore, this place is a must visit. Absolute hidden gem in North Park! read more

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I've been reading a ton of books these past several months, so I was excited to go here. Unfortunately my husband and I were really disappointed with the prices and selection. For example, I saw a used copy of Sense and Sensibility being sold for $9 when the retail price brand new is $8. I know this because I bought this EXACT copy at Barnes and Noble the day before (!). WTF?! Not to mention the used literature selection was pretty scant for how large this place is. Usually I'm able to find at least 2-3 books from my book list at a used bookstore, but I only found one, which was extremely overpriced. You know what kind of books they had a lot of? Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew...books that only old millennials would be interested in reading for nostalgia's sake. FYI, I'm an old millennial, although I never read a Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys book. I also felt that the employees here were standoffish and rude. Maybe I just got them on a bad day? I am all for supporting local businesses and indie bookstores that encourage reading, but this place put a bad taste in my mouth. read more

SUCH a great selection of books. They had so many great books and everything was so organized for easier browsing. The inside of the store was so aesthetically pleasing, including the big "Verbatim Books" made out of books when you enter the store. You do have to place your drinks on a table before entering the store, since they're not allowed into the store. They also had so many cute stickers and postcards, as well as pins. Employees were very nice and helpful to find books recs and inventory. Prices vary, but I bought a book for $8 and another for $12, which I think were pretty good for "like new" conditions read more

Verbatim Books - Outside - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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I love discovering classic bookstores when I travel. I believe it's very important to keep these small businesses open. I openly admit that I will always prefer holding and reading a book versus a Kindle or any other kind of electronic reading device. Entering San Diego's largest independent bookstore felt like I was going to be hanging out with a good friend. From the old building smells to the classic books on the shelves, it just felt comfortable. The bookstore is divided into two large rooms. Loved the plant nook with a comfortable chair just inviting you to have a seat and relax. So many treasures on the shelves waiting to be read. A fun kids area awaits young readers searching for their next good book. The selection is huge and offers books on most subjects. They also have a sell and trade your books offered twice each week. Staff is friendly and helpful. Most of the books are gently loved but you will find a couple more popular titles as well. Pricing varies and some books were really pricey. There is other merchandise to purchase as well like journals, stickers, totes, t-shirts, and gift cards. Location is in North Park and parking will be on the street or in a lot. I really enjoyed my time here and would recommend. I plan to return next time I visit. read more

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A must stop when in the area. Luvd our visit here last month on a light rainy day with coffee in hand but remember to leave it at the table by the door while you browse around. Luv the reading spaces and backdrops around the shop. Inviting & immersive to dive into a good read. Cute space for children to listen to an adventure and follow along. Well organized genres, coordinated and easy to find what you're looking for. Service was welcoming and friendly. read more

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Really unique bookshop off the beaten path in San Diego. Definitely worth a visit for the unique atmosphere, and the vast assortment of books, literature, magazines, toys, and many other things of interest. The decor is fun to look at, and if you're into antique books, as I am, they have a vast selection that is very fun to look through. It's also very well organized, which is nice because sometimes large secondhand bookstores can feel overwhelming if not organized properly. This store is popular so I recommend visiting on a day when it's not so busy because the aisles are small and it's hard to get around when it's full of people . But No matter what you're into, you're sure to find something you'll like. That said, most of the books are on the higher end of secondhand price, especially trending titles/authors. You will definitely find better prices for secondhand books at most thrift stores. read more

I love this place and this is my second or third time visiting. The perfect place for spending hours browsing looking for a used book. The bookish decor is beautiful and the staff are available to help you look for a particular book. read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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This place has been on my radar for quite sometime. Every time I visit, I never get a chance to stop by so this was the day to do so. Unfortunately, they were having a street sale with different vendors selling their merch so North Park was insane. We could not find a parking anywhere and parking enforcement was out to play. Since we could not find a parking spot and circled many times, we decided that my boyfriend would drop me off up front so I can go in and check out the store. I was on a time crunch to find a book and take as many photos as I could when visiting. The store itself is pretty cool and has lots of classics on the shelves throughout the store. There are plants in one corner and a pic of Nicolas Cage telling you to read. Well, of course Mr. cage I will read all day and every day. In the main room there is a huge wall adorned with books that spell out the shop name. This was the popular section because everyone fighting to get that perfect shop all together. I ended up finding no books that caught my eye but I did score a new tote bag, of course, and a new bookmark. The guy who rang me up was pretty cool and noticed how happy I was. I mentioned it was my first time and he talked it up with me for a bit but I was wary of my time. Everything was affordable and at a great price which made me want it even more. In less than 20 minutes, I was able to browse the store take some pics, and buy some pretty cool merch. Hopefully on my next visit, it won't be so crazy and I will get to enjoy my visit without being rushed. read more

I happened to walk by this bookstore when I took my daughter thrifting in the area. She went thrifting; I went book shopping. This place is amazing. I absolutely love their exterior paintings and the back wall where books spell the word Verbatim. Ended up buying some books. I could spend hours in there just browsing the shelves. read more

Verbatim Books - Back wall inside the bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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FORR THE BOOK LOVERS. I've been here so many times on the weekdays and weekends with my husband and friend Serena. My hubby got a bunch of fiction books for his Navy deployment. The prices are so good, because one book these days is $20-$30 easy and that's not including textbook kind of books. There are cards, accessories, and stickers that I like to collect as well. There are cute spots where you can read, and I appreciate that there are books written by local San Diego authors. I brought my sister here when she visited from Virginia. Always a good time read more

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This book shop is so unique and very cool. There's all types of books including manga and children's books. There's also more rare/collectable editions. I enjoyed browsing here and also checking out interesting displays (like their Nicolas Cage altar). Would absolutely come back. read more

Verbatim Books - Nic Cage altar - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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Such a beautiful bookstore. Lots of art and detail put into the store! New and used books and fun trinkets. Check it out! read more

Verbatim Books - Cool mural on the side of the building - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

Book Nerds Must Stop!!! Anytime I'm even remotely in the area I'm stopping by Verbatim!. This place is a beautiful example of what books stores should look like... Stocked with treasures in hard to find books, signed editions, long lost antique finds, and every day poular must haves AND the space is amazing where you'll want to spend hours here. read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

Super cute bookstore with unique finds. I love how they arranged the books into their bookstore name and in rainbow colors read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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Great local bookstore, has so many options of new and modern to very very old to also throw back books from the 80s and 90s. Lots of variety. Kids books, cooking books, mystery, collectibles. Staff is super friendly and helpful and can help you find a book if they don't have it on when they might be able to get it. Prices were very normal I thought they would be very expensive but they were very competitive. Some kids books were under $5. Perfect for a gift and supporting a local small company. read more

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Quickly book store that has a surprising collection of used books. Some hard to find books are here and if you like mystery there is a huge collection. read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

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You'd be hard pressed to find a more eclectic bookstore anywhere in the planet. The old adage "you may not find what you came for, but you'll find SOMETHING you love" lives true here. The selection is vast and varied and the value great, but more often than not this a place to take your time with. Browse, relax, find something to read, something to take home; something to get lost in. And while you're at it, take note of the whimsical collections above the books - dinosaurs, cats, toys, knickknacks and a bunch of personal items dot every empty space, guarding, beckoning and smiling at you from every nook and cranny. Give it a try! You'll fall in love! read more

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Such a great little bookstore. I love books and never owned a kindle so coming here was such a treat! There was a variety of books, except new and updated books. The decor was really cool. Lots of old and vintage books , books with pages torn from the books. I was hoping for some new updated books, but none. Other than that , it's pretty much a photo hype spot. The wall of books is neat and that's it. read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

I'm an avid reader and was so excited to visit Verbatim today. I was so surprised at what a great selection of current books they have - new releases that have already made it on to their shelves! They have older books and classics as well as an array of non-fiction and graphic novels. I absolutely loved their kid section! Staff were friendly and helpful but also didn't hover so you could just enjoy perusing the shelves. Obviously the newer releases were pricier than the older books but I was surprised at how many I pulled off the shelf that were just $5! The store is so very well organized - it really is easy to find exactly what you're looking for! Glad I made the trip and I'll definitely stop in the next time I'm in SD! read more

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Verbatim reminds me of You've Got Mail and the importance of preserving the shop around the corner from the corporate giants trying to take over the corporate bookstore space (looking at you: Amazon). Verbatim is funky, eclectic and local. They are San Diego's largest independent bookstore! While the majority of books are secondhand, they've got a large selection of new releases and popular reads! There are two areas: a large open space with the well-documented Verbatim Books store sign built into the books and then a more narrow room filled with long shelves of books. Located in the heart of North Park, it's easy to pop in if you're in the area grabbing a meal or doing some shopping. This place definitely doesn't give a quite bookstore vibe as many people are coming in and out to snap a few photos of the space, but it is great for browsing. read more

What an absolute treasure! I had no idea a gem like this existed in my area. This location boasts a massive amount of books on various topics. Not only do they have books, they also have other merchandise. I myself purchased a cookbook and a journal. With shelves going from the floor all the way to the ceiling, you will find yourself lost in a world of literature in a good way. Prices are very fair and the staff was beyond friendly. I highly suggest swinging into this establishment if you want a quaint experience that is a departure from the idea of large mainstream book stores. After a few more visits I might increase my rating. * as is the norm with most places in North park, you might have to deal with finding parking.. you have been warned. Don't let that stop you though, I think everyone should experience this bookstore! read more

Verbatim Books - Limitless possibilities! - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California

This is a dog friendly secondhand bookstore with beautifully displayed used books. I was surprised by the selection because I even found Japanese mangas and a good amount of Stephen King novels. The service seems friendly but the parking is difficult unless you want to pay for parking at a garage across the street, or drive around for almost 30 minutes looking for free parking. Nearly getting mugged by a panhandler right out of my car didn't help my impression. The books itself as other users mentioned are hardly secondhand prices. You are better off buying online new. In sum, unless I'm having trouble finding an out of print and hard to find books, I personally wouldn't be returning. read more

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Loved this little gem of a book store. Not only does it look cool but it has a great selection and prices. I picked up a few books - even a signed copy from a new author! read more

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First time at Verbatim and I was blown away with this store in a good way! I never really had the chance to go myself until today and so can confidently say I plan to go back. Located in North Park, right by Pigment and Lovesong coffee, Verbatim attracts a large crowd, but doesn't have the best parking. It is all street parking and depending on what time you go, parking will be a challenge. It is closer to the more busy part of North Park so traffic becomes a challenge later into the day. I had no issues with service. I thought the staff was friendly and kind. I saw a good amount of staff on the floor too and they were all working hard. So no complaints against them. I thought the selection was pretty good and decently priced. They had a good amount of everything from romance, thriller and even manga. The store itself was well organized by sections and genres. I wouldn't mind coming back! I mentally have to prep myself for the parking situation but other than that, this is a pretty solid book store! read more

Verbatim Books - Bookstores Near Me - San Diego, California