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June 2024 by Marnette Severance
We were in town for a long weekend; while looking through the "St. Augustine Sightseeing Map & Guide"
an ad for the Second Read Bookstore on Page 28 caught my eye. Who doesn't love a good bookstore that sells gently used books at discounted prices? The location couldn't be better - behind Flagler College - on Cordova Street in the heart of the historic district where parking is a premium at $20-$25. We felt lucky to walk from our VRBO.
We were greeted by engaging co-owner, Susan, who told us that the shop has been in business for 30 years. I can see why people gravitate to this small, intimate eclectic gem. To accommodate customers, Susan or her partner, Evelyn, will hold purchases while customers enjoy the city. Their hours cannot be matched: Second Read Books is open seven days a week: Monday - Thursday from 10-7 Friday - Sunday from 10-8. The sightseeing guide and map show the shop closed on Wednesdays which it was during Covid.
The books are in marvelous condition. I bought a brand new Marie Benedict paperback for $7.95; it retails for $16.99. Susan said she buys books from places like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity and humane societies which gives back to those organizations while offering quality books for her customers. Win-win.
The shop has kind of a treasure hunt feel. The books are organized by topic: Poetry, General Fiction, Florida Authors, Children, Spiritual, Classics, DVDs, Romance, Christmas, etc. While not strictly alphabetized, the books are displayed horizontally and vertically in short stacks; the fun is craning your neck to find a title for your next read. By the looks of the bags of books waiting for pickup, the shop enjoys a great following.
Second Read Books even offers a credit system. If a patron donates a book to the shop, a credit is given to apply toward a future purchase. It was so cool to see the credit system on a Rolodex. Credit cards are accepted; cash is welcomed to help with those pesky credit card fees, especially for a small business like Second Read Books.
The shop has such a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. As we left, Susan reminded us to stay hydrated in the San Augustine heat. Second Read Books is one of those hidden gems you wish you could find in every town. Be sure to stop in on your next visit.
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June 2024 by Tina Ford
This book store was amazing! Great selection of books and a wonderfully kind and knowledgeable owner. She even noticed that I picked up a book two in a series and mentioned it so I wouldn’t be surprised by my purchase later. She also offered to hold my books for me until close so I didn’t have to carry them around all day. Genuinely sweet lady. I highly recommend this shop.
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June 2024 by D “Lizzy” L
Great to find something you didn’t know you were looking for. They don’t have a lot of new inventory but still a great selection.
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May 2024 by Thomas R Farrell, MD
Everything I have read from this bookstore has been a fabulous experience! Selections recommend have broadened my horizons. Thank you for feeding my appetite for great books. I will be back soon❤️?
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May 2024 by Danielle
Such a cute little used bookstore to just drop in and see what's available. I was able to find a book after browsing. Great store!
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May 2024 by haley s
One of my favorite used bookshops, the owner is so sweet! Has a wonderful selection of books! :-)
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May 2024 by C Pollard
Cozy book store. Great prices! Staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. We stop by every time we can when we visit St. Augustine. Highly recommend if you're a bookworm or just a casual reader.
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May 2024 by stephen vineyard
The best book store I've ever been to. And I've been to some book stores.
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May 2024 by Andrew Kiederling
Love this little place
great owner, great selection
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April 2024 by Gaga Traywick
Books are my magical place, this shop is amazing. I especially love the local authors. The Randy Cribb books are some awesome retelling of local ghost stories. There some St Augustine books for tourists. This is a must visit when we visit.
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March 2024 by Jim Rouland
Good book store to visit while in St. Augustine. My wife and I have been there twice while here's on vacation. Both times were a charm. Many books of various topics, good prices. The owner, Carol, was helpful, friendly, so easy to chat with; and, very knowledgeable. Truly enjoyed the visit; both times found great and rare books; and, purchased several. Have 8 days left and will most definitely revisit this charming place. Stop in, browse yourself; you won't be disappointed. ?
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March 2024 by Carissa Malecki
Kind owners and great books.
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February 2024 by Brunzi
Carol is the bomb. Absolutely wonderful person and pleasant conversation. Helped me decide on an awesome book to get. ? ?
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February 2024 by Jesus Roman
Lovely staff very clean and organized. Overall great selection
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February 2024 by Christine Weiss
We stopped in here on a Saturday night after we were out for dinner. This is a great find for readers. The shop is small but well curated!!!! We met one of the owners who was a delight and, you could tell, passionate about books and about providing readers an opportunity to find something new for them. When I saw Killer Angel's, Annie Proulx short stories and William Dalrymple represented I knew I was in a great shop not only for readers but for thinkers. Stop in, it's worth your time.
