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The 12 Best Used Bookstores in San Francisco

For book lovers in San Francisco, exploring the city's used bookstores is a delightful pastime. Whether you're searching for a rare out-of-print gem or simply browsing for the next addition to your collection, the city offers a diverse range of options for every bibliophile.

From cozy independent shops to sprawling stores with extensive selections, there's something for everyone in this literary haven. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start your hunt for the perfect read. That's why we've compiled a list of the best used bookstores in San Francisco, to help you narrow down your options and find the ideal spot to satisfy your literary cravings.

Embark on a bookish adventure and discover the charm of San Francisco's thriving used bookstore scene with our carefully curated list of the city's top destinations for bookworms.

How we chose and ordered them

To put together this guide to used bookstores in San Francisco, we looked at what each business really focuses on, how its customers rate it over time and what it shows about its work on its own channels. The order is ours and we review it regularly.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 12 local options side by side

Bird & Beckett Books & Records, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • A wonderful local bookstore that hosts live music after hours. A very unique experience, great for a date night.

  • World-class jazz performances in an intimate setting make for a fantastic experience.

  • A treasure hidden in fog, cozy and comfortable, perfect for finding kids' books.

  • Amazing host for jazz tribute concerts, a staple of the community.

Bird & Beckett Books & Records

4.9220 reviews
653 Chenery St, San Francisco, CA 94131, United States

Bird & Beckett Books & Records is a charming bookstore in San Francisco that offers a unique experience to its customers. With a rating of 4.9, it has gained a loyal following of book lovers and music enthusiasts alike.

Customers rave about the live music performances, the expertly curated selection of books, and the overall cozy and welcoming atmosphere of Bird & Beckett Books & Records. Whether you are looking for a new read, a unique date night spot, or simply a place to enjoy live music, this bookstore has something special to offer.

Green Apple Books, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • Customers rave about the wide range of new and used books available, along with other eclectic items that complement the bookstore's vibe.

  • The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide helpful recommendations and create a welcoming environment for bookworms.

  • Visitors appreciate the unique wooden designs and hidden rooms that make browsing through the store a delightful experience.

Green Apple Books

4.81,785 reviews
506 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Green Apple Books is a beloved book store located in San Francisco that offers a variety of services to cater to book enthusiasts. Customers can enjoy the convenience of delivery, in-store pick-up, and in-store shopping. The store is known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a quick visit for book lovers.

Fabulosa Books, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • Wonderful selection of diverse books with fair pricing.

  • Great mix of new and used books, including bargain finds.

  • Perfect destination for queer individuals seeking representation in literature.

  • Excellent customer service, extensive book selection, and inviting atmosphere for everyone.

Fabulosa Books

4.8295 reviews
489 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

Fabulosa Books is a gem of a bookstore located in San Francisco. This charming establishment offers a wide array of titles with a special focus on queer topics and authors. The friendly and helpful staff enhance the experience by providing excellent customer service and assisting customers in finding the perfect book. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, making it an ideal place for exploring new reads and connecting with the community.

Customer reviews rave about Fabulosa Books:

Globus Books, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • A lovely bookstore packed with a great selection of Russian and Eastern European literature.

  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff who are happy to help customers find the perfect book.

  • Cozy ambiance with an extensive collection of books lining the shelves from floor to ceiling.

Globus Books

5.053 reviews
332 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Globus Books is a charming bookstore located in San Francisco, CA. This small business offers a wide selection of fiction and nonfiction books in Russian, Ukrainian, Belarusian, and English. Customers love the cozy atmosphere and the helpful staff who are knowledgeable about the books they carry.

Browser Books, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • A wide selection of books and magazines

  • Helpful and friendly staff

  • Cozy and inviting atmosphere

  • Excellent book recommendations

Browser Books

4.8147 reviews
2195 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Browser Books is a charming bookstore located in San Francisco. With a rating of 4.8, it is a favorite among book lovers. The bookstore offers service options like in-store pick-up and in-store shopping, making it convenient for customers to browse and purchase books.

Customers have praised Browser Books for various reasons:

Visitors appreciate the curated collection and often leave with a few books in hand. The bookstore is known for its thoughtful displays and diverse offerings, creating a unique experience for every visitor. If you're in the Fillmore area, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore Browser Books and discover your next favorite read.

Dog Eared Books, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • A diverse collection of new and used books

  • Passionate staff who are knowledgeable and helpful

  • Cozy and light-filled atmosphere perfect for exploring different sections

  • Unique selection of titles including small presses and foreign authors

Dog Eared Books

4.7908 reviews
900 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Dog Eared Books is a beloved book store located in San Francisco, offering a unique and extensive collection of new and used books. Visitors can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where they can easily get lost browsing through the shelves for hours.

Whether you are looking for a specific title or simply want to discover your next favorite read, Dog Eared Books is the perfect destination for all book lovers. Visit their website or stop by their store to experience this literary gem in the heart of San Francisco.

Bolerium Books, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • Fast, friendly, and reliable team that provides excellent customer service.

  • Extensive selection of books that mesmerizes customers and creates a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of an old library.

  • Helpful and unobtrusive staff members who enhance the overall bookstore experience.

  • Immaculate packaging and fast shipping for online orders that exceed customer expectations.

Bolerium Books

4.840 reviews
2141 Mission St #300, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Bolerium Books is a well-known used book store located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services such as Kerbside pickup, In-store pick-up, and In-store shopping. The store is Wheelchair-accessible and creates a LGBTQ+ friendly environment for all customers.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Bolerium Books:

With a 4.8-star rating and positive feedback from customers, Bolerium Books stands out as a cherished institution in San Francisco for book lovers and collectors.

Books Inc., San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Great selection of books, friendly and knowledgeable staff.

  • Organized and displayed collection, with sale tables for discounted books.

  • Linked to a cafe for a cozy reading experience.

  • Excellent titles for all age groups, helpful staff, and cozy cafe with wifi.

Books Inc.

4.6203 reviews
601 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Books Inc. is a renowned bookstore located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services including in-store pick-up and accept various payment methods like credit cards and debit cards. The bookstore is easily accessible with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it convenient for all customers.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Books Inc. praising their excellent selection of books and helpful staff. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a high rating of 4.6, Books Inc. continues to be a favorite spot for book lovers in the area. Whether you're looking for a specific title or simply browsing for a good read, this bookstore has something for everyone.

Forest Books, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • A wide variety of books on philosophy, world history, and politics across different regions

  • A unique selection of artistic, spiritual, and esoteric books that cater to the soul

  • A peaceful atmosphere that exudes a sense of tranquility similar to that of a temple

  • Helpful and approachable staff who are well-versed in various genres and offer valuable recommendations

Forest Books

4.6102 reviews
1748 Buchanan St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Forest Books is a charming bookstore located in San Francisco that offers a unique and well-curated selection of books. Customers have raved about the store's focus on philosophy, world history, art, and literature that are not commonly found in other bookstores. The peaceful ambiance of the store, complete with fragrant incense and the sound of a small waterfall, creates a serene environment for book lovers to explore and discover new titles. The friendly staff and knowledgeable owner add to the overall positive experience for visitors.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

ALocal choice
#10
What it does well
  • Knowledgeable and friendly owner

  • Unique and fascinating collection of books and memorabilia

  • Well-organized and curated space

Argonaut Book Shop

4.545 reviews
786 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Argonaut Book Shop is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco that specializes in a wide range of rare and antique books. The proprietor, known for his warm hospitality and wealth of knowledge, offers visitors a truly unique experience. From incunabula leaves to vintage postcards, the shop boasts a diverse collection that caters to collectors and history enthusiasts alike. The well-organized space and attentive service make browsing a delight. Customers have raved about their visits, highlighting the following key points:

Prepare to be transported through time and immerse yourself in history at Argonaut Book Shop.

34 Trinity Arts & News, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • A triptych of a store with beautiful books behind glass, resembling a red light district store - impeccable curation.

  • Adorable aesthetic and quality books, perfect for a mid-day work break.

  • Best little used bookshop in San Francisco, always offering delightful treasures and friendly, helpful staff.

34 Trinity Arts & News

5.07 reviews
34 Trinity Pl, San Francisco, CA 94104, United States

34 Trinity Arts & News is a charming used book store located in San Francisco, CA. This small business offers a unique selection of literature, art books, and record albums, making it a haven for book lovers and collectors alike. The store's wheelchair-accessible entrance ensures that everyone can enjoy browsing through their carefully curated collection.

Customers have praised 34 Trinity Arts & News for its outstanding staff, reasonable prices, and adorable aesthetic. Some of the key points from customer reviews include:

With a perfect rating of 5.0, 34 Trinity Arts & News excels in providing a unique and welcoming experience for book enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you're looking for a rare find or simply want to discover something new, this store is a must-visit in the city.

Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Bookstore#12
What it does well
  • Great prices with a vast selection of genres available, all priced at a mere dollar.

  • Books are affordably priced, with some as low as $3, making it a budget-friendly option for book lovers.

  • The selection may be limited due to the store's small space, but customers still manage to find hidden gems.

  • A must-visit for bibliophiles looking for classic second-hand books and a diverse range of genres.

Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Bookstore

4.417 reviews
30 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Bookstore is a charming bookstore located on 30 Grove St, San Francisco, CA. They offer a wide selection of books for avid readers and book lovers. The store is run by Volunteers of the Library who ensure there is something for everyone, with books priced at incredibly affordable rates, some as low as $1. Customers rave about the excellent choice of books and the wonderful selection of books and CDs. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With an average rating of 4.4 stars, customers appreciate the affordable prices, diverse book selection, and the opportunity to support the library through their purchases. If you're in San Francisco and looking for your next great read, Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Bookstore is the place to visit.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Bird & Beckett Books & Records 4.9220
#2Green Apple Books 4.81,785
#3Fabulosa Books 4.8295
#4Globus Books 5.053
#5Browser Books 4.8147
#6Dog Eared Books 4.7908
#7Bolerium Books 4.840
#8Books Inc. 4.6203
#9Forest Books 4.6102
#10Argonaut Book Shop 4.545
#1134 Trinity Arts & News 5.07
#12Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Bookstore 4.417

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Map of Used Bookstores in San Francisco

San Francisco is a book lover's paradise, with a plethora of used bookstores just waiting to be explored. From hidden gems tucked away in cozy neighborhoods to well-known establishments in bustling areas, the city offers a diverse selection for every reader. Use this map to discover all the wonderful bookstores this vibrant city has to offer.

How to pick Used Bookstores in San Francisco

  1. Wide selection of books.
  2. Cozy atmosphere.
  3. Knowledgeable staff.
  4. Specialty sections.
  5. Competitive pricing.

Common questions

What are the benefits of shopping at used bookstores?

One of the main benefits of shopping at used bookstores is the cost savings. You can often find books at a fraction of the price compared to buying them new. Additionally, shopping at a used bookstore helps reduce waste and supports sustainability by giving books a second life. Used bookstores also offer a unique selection of books that you might not find at larger chain stores. Furthermore, shopping at a used bookstore can be a more personal and intimate experience, as many stores are independently owned and operated. You can also discover hidden gems and rare finds that might not be available elsewhere.

What types of books can you find at used bookstores in San Francisco?

Used bookstores in San Francisco typically offer a wide range of genres and subjects, catering to diverse reading interests. You can find everything from classic literature and bestsellers to niche titles and specialized collections. Many stores also carry a selection of rare and out-of-print books that are sought after by collectors. In addition to books, some used bookstores in San Francisco may also sell other items such as vintage magazines, vinyl records, and artwork. The inventory at each store can vary, so it's worth exploring different stores to discover unique finds.

How can you support local used bookstores in San Francisco?

There are several ways to support local used bookstores in San Francisco. One of the simplest ways is to make a purchase and buy books from these stores rather than shopping at larger chain retailers. By doing so, you are helping to sustain these businesses and keep them thriving in the community. You can also support local used bookstores by spreading the word and recommending them to friends and family. Sharing your positive experiences on social media or leaving reviews online can help attract more customers to these stores. Additionally, some stores may offer memberships or loyalty programs that provide discounts and other benefits to regular patrons.

Are there any events or promotions at used bookstores in San Francisco?

Used bookstores in San Francisco often host events such as author signings, book readings, and themed book sales. These events can provide an opportunity to meet authors, connect with other book lovers, and discover new titles. Some stores may also offer promotions such as discounts on certain genres or bulk purchases. It's a good idea to check the websites or social media pages of used bookstores in San Francisco for updates on upcoming events and promotions. You may also want to sign up for newsletters or mailing lists to receive notifications about special offers and exclusive deals.

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