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Bookstores are the epitome of magic and peace for readers: the thrill of the hunt for your next favorite read, the cozy ambiance, and communities of like-minded bookworms. But the price of books can add up fast, and buying a brand new book you will only read once can feel wasteful. The perfect solution? Used books.
Used books are cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and come with a unique charm and history that is lacking in brand-new books. In used bookstores, you can find the same titles and authors for a fraction of the price that you would normally pay. You can even sell your books at most used bookstores for store credit or cash. Used books are not just equal to their newer counterparts: they’re better. In the spirit of the thrift, I went on a hunt to find the best used bookstores in the Boston area for you to find your next favorite read.
Best Prices: Rodney’s Cambridge
23 Church St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Hours: 12 pm-7 pm daily
Rodney’s Bookstore is small but mighty. Located less than a block from the Harvard stop of the Red Line, it is an adorable shop that boasts a hefty collection of used books at affordable prices.
When first walking into Rodney’s, I was greeted by wistful folk music playing through the speakers. With a homey and nostalgic atmosphere radiating through the store, I explored the collection of used books, as well as the numerous additional fun items present. There were tons of both new and old music posters to look through, as well as beautiful handmade knick-knacks lining the front of the store. They even offer services to print your artwork and photography.
In terms of books, Rodney’s boasts a solid collection of all genres, including sections of niche classifications like mythology, medieval tales, and personal essays. They even have a sensible children’s book corner that includes plenty of old and modern titles, such as the entire Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series.
The prices of the books at Rodney’s are what stood out to me the most. I bought a a memoir in great condition for less than a dollar! If you’re on a budget and want a cozy used bookstore experience, Rodney’s is the place to visit.
Most Unique: Seven Stars
731 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
Hours: 11 am-6 pm daily
When I first stepped into Seven Stars near Central Square in Cambridge, my jaw quite literally dropped. I couldn’t believe my eyes: shelves of books, hundreds of crystals, and the owner’s adorable puppy roaming—Is this Heaven?
Marketed as both a new age crystal shop and used bookstore, this shop is by far the most unique bookstore experience I have ever had. I was greeted with the calming scent of incense, and instantly felt the enchanting nature of Seven Stars come to life. The front of the store has a beautiful glass case of crystals and crystal jewelry including bracelets, pendants, and keychains. These crystals are directly across from a neatly organized table of current best sellers and popular authors.
The used books of this store are mixed in with new editions, emphasizing that used books are just as valuable as their younger counterparts. The selection of books from all genres is vast, but the store also has a heavy emphasis on books about spirituality, mythology, psychology, religion, and all things new-age.
I walked into Seven Stars needing absolutely nothing, and walked out with a used memoir, a green goldstone crystal, and a smile on my face.
Best History: Brattle Book Shop
9 West St, Boston, MA 02111
Hours: 9:30 am-5 pm Monday-Saturday
Brattle Book Shop is a captivating bookstore in Downtown Boston that boasts the title of one of the oldest and largest used bookstores in the country. With three floors, there is no end to the treasures you can find in Brattle.
Stepping into Brattle Book Shop is like stepping into a historical literature wonderland. Although they have a vast section of all genres, Brattle feels like the perfect place for any lovers of history, due to its rich historical nature. The first two floors of the shop are dedicated to general used books, and the third floor is home to rare and antiquarian books. In addition to antique books, the antiquarian collectibles sold at Brattle include maps, prints, fine leather bindings, and postcards.
Brattle also has an outdoor section of books (when the weather allows) that eagle-eyed cinephiles might recognize from The Holdovers. The selections and prices at Brattle are hard to beat, with all the genres you can imagine and prices starting at $1 per book.
Best Mission: More Than Words
242 E Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02118
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10 am-8 pm, Saturday: 9:30 am-10 pm, Sunday: 9:30 am-9 pm
More Than Words (MTW), located in the South End of Boston, is certainly something that is more than just any old bookstore. MTW is a nonprofit social enterprise that employs youth ages 16-24 who are in the foster-care system, homeless, the court system, or are out-of-school. These young adults learn how to run an online and retail bookstore, while getting additional support. 100% of the purchases you make in the store go to programs that benefit them.
MTW does not just have an incredible mission; it is an incredible store with an exciting vibe. In terms of used books, MTW has it all. Genres like historical fiction, general fiction, poetry, classical, and even textbooks lined the walls. I also learned that MTW hosts frequent events, like book signings, workshops, and general community-building activities.
There was no shortage of used books at great prices in great condition. In addition, MTW has plenty of home decor, gifts, jewelry, games, accessories, stationery, and more. They are not just organized by section, but by what mission each item supports directly. Some missions that their products support include empowering young moms, supporting Black owned businesses, sustainability, LGBTQ+ initiatives, animal cruelty, Mental Health services, and much more. If you are passionate about a cause, chances are that MTW has products that directly support that cause.
Best Overall: Brookline Booksmith
279 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02446
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 9:30 am-9:3 0pm, Friday-Saturday: 9:30 am-10 pm, Sunday: 9:30 am-9 pm
Brookline Booksmith, located across from the Coolidge Corner T stop, is one of those stores that you start planning your next visit to as soon as you walk through the exit. While it is impossible to explore all that the store has in one visit, it is definitely worth your time.
When I first walked in, I was greeted by strings of magical fairy lights, and tons of friendly staff members who are eager to help you find your next read, or just chat! From these friendly staff members, I learned that Brookline Booksmith has a rich history of expanding its space numerous times due to high demand. It opened in 1961 with just a few square feet, and now boasts over 4,500 square feet, still maintaining its original charm, despite its size. Brookline Booksmith has hundreds of new copies of books neatly organized on their first floor, as well as a plethora of knick-knacks, novelties, and trinkets. They also host author events almost daily, either at the store or at a nearby location.
Taking a walk downstairs is where Brookline shines in its collection of used books. They call their downstairs a “used book cellar,” and it certainly delivers on its promise of tons of loved literature. Just because their selection of used books is in their basement does not mean it is not remarkable. Brookline has the best used selection of modern titles, at great prices, out of all of the bookstores I visited.
To no one’s surprise, I walked in looking for nothing and left with 3 used books in almost perfect condition, for a total of under $15. An amazing way to end my search for the best used bookstores in Boston, Brookline Booksmith comes in first for its charm, collection, and atmosphere.