Book Stores near Old Saybrook, CT

“I regret that I don't have any photos to add to this review. The day I went to Harbor Books, it was pouring down rain. My date and I walked to the bookstore in the pouring rain, and not only did I not want to get my phone wet, I also didn't want to have to keep her waiting for me under the downpour any longer than was necessary. I guess I'm a nice guy...Shhhhh! Don't tell anyone! When I realized I would be meeting someone for a date in the area, I went online to see what Old Saybrook has to offer on a Sunday. I hadn't been to Old Saybrook in at least a couple years, and I'm not too up-to-date on the goings on in the area. My search turned up a small cafe nearby...and Harbor Books. After a small but pleasant lunch, we walked to Harbor Books in the rain. Upon first walking in, I noticed a $1.00 bin where all the books were on sale for, yep, a dollar. I noticed one title in there I decided I would pick up and purchase on the way out (I did), one of Mary Higgins Clark's older novels, hardcover, in excellent condition. Looking through Harbor Books, I quickly realized I would need much more time in there than I suspected my date was willing to spend. I guessed 5 hours. No joke. Not only do they have a great selection of titles, they also have a great selection of vintage and antique books. Many of which are in excellent shape and are marked with a great price. There are probably more antique books in this little bookstore than at the antique shop a couple towns away, that has a ton of books. Five hours is likely an understatement. While looking through the bookshelves, I happened upon a book by a local author whom I had met at least a couple times, now about 10 years ago. I picked up the book, and asked the store owner how long he had had that book in stock. He estimated 7-8 years. I put the book back on the shelf, stepped away, then immediately turned back and grabbed it. After bringing the book home, along with a couple others I purchased along with it, I looked up the author online, wondering what he might be up to these days. Turns out he's up to nothing. He's dead. He died about 4 years ago, while his book was sitting on the shelf of this little bookstore, waiting years for me to come and pick it up. I got to thinking: what are the odds? This book, which I am certain had a very small print run, sat on a shelf waiting 7 or 8 years for me to find it, authored by a man I had met 10 years ago, who is now dead. I took it as a sign that the copy of the book had always been mine, waiting there on that shelf until just the right circumstances led me into Harbor Books and to it. The thing is, I'm willing to bet Harbor Books is JUST the right kind of store for that sort of thing. And I think the next time I go in there, I'll likely find something else that was there waiting for me, somewhere in those tightly-packed shelves. What will I find when I go there next? And will it really take 5 hours? We shall see.”

“What an amazing spot for the community. If you love reading and hate censorship and Nazi tactics, this is the bookstore for you. Karens need not enter and then leave eye-roll-enducing Yelp and Facebook reviews for everyone to laugh at behind their backs.”

“I come in here generally to buy CDs or vinyl and always end up getting something totally unexpected. You have to keep coming back every few weeks, or you may miss out on some Treasures. There is a Warren of little rooms, make sure you explore every nook and corner. Fun Spot”

“Don't be fooled by the size of this place. There are some absolute treasures here, especially if you're interested in rare books. I was surprised to find a large collection of philosophy texts as well. I can't wait return.”

“Excellent selection and service. As a fellow bookseller, I admire Town's End -- they are my go-to store when my customers are looking for books I don't have. Highly recommended.”

“This a 5 star shop all the way around. To start, the staff..Ron, his wife and his people are fantastic, so caring and sincere I feel like I'm going to see friends everytime I'm going in the store! The Selection of juices is huge and always ls a good price, you are able to try all the flavors ranging from apple pie to fruit flavors! The store itself is clean inviting, well lit, and friendly atmosphere. I am 13 days smoke free and counting thanks to Vapor St8 and their people!”