12 - 5:30PM
208 York Rd, Towson
Book Stores
“I miss the old days of this bookstore where I could walk through and look at every book and textbook in stock. Now, you have to have a store clerk get your textbook out of a back room. So disappointing.”
“A group of my friends and I were in from out of town, looking for a place to hold a small get together. Charm City Books were gracious hosts and every accommodating. They had great communication throughout the planning process. The bookstore is adorable, clean and we were also able to browse the store. We had a great time.”
“Stopping by The Ivy Bookshop while I was in Baltimore reminded me why I love visiting new bookstores. There’s something about wandering the aisles and stumbling across unexpected gems, but the real highlight is always the staff picks. Getting a glimpse into what moved someone else, the stories that stayed with them and sparked emotions, is special. There’s a kind of connection in that, seeing passion translated into a simple recommendation card.”
“My favorite place to get new books! Snug has a pretty wide selection, but if you want something specific that's not in stock, they can order it for you. They also have a great selection of reading-adjacent items like pens, bookmarks, small puzzles, stickers, and fidget items. I buy a lot of things for myself here, and also gifts for others. Their book recommendations are also on point.”
“Very nice atmosphere and reasonably priced. They have very cool editions of classics, and we love the little Russian corner. I got some printed cards from Vera Smirnova's collection, and tbey were a holiday favorite. I will definitely be returning and would recommend to anyone who loves bookstores.”
10AM - 6PM
1356 W North Ave, Baltimore
Book Stores
“I love this African bookstore. I took a healer there and she admitted that it’s very active in there. It always smells so good, the African fabric is very good quality. It’s so easy to get lost in this tiny store especially if you don’t know what you came for. Books, posters, tarot cards and BLACK KIDS BOOKS upstairs along with a friendly black cat that just wants some loving. And all of the essentials, jewelry, spell candles, incense, sage, crystals, soap, butter, African hair products, singing bowls and ritual equipment. Trust me you want to go to this store.”
“I love this bookstore! The vibe is immaculate. You'll find a wide selection of books by Black authors that speak to the Black experience. Fiction and non-fiction, all ages. The shop also has a juice bar as well as a carefully curated selection of small batch bath and body care. Plus, Urban Reads hosts fun community events. Street parking, just around the corner from the Waverly Farmer's Market, Red Emma's and Peabody Heights Brewery.”
“Think of The Book Thing as a giant little library built for an entire city.
It's easy to drop off books because there is a separate lane in the back of the building for vehicles and dropoff dates are posted on the website. You may not have to leave your vehicle to donate!
Keep in mind that hours are limited. The Book Thing depends on volunteer labor.
PS I am uncluttering my home, so I never donate and look for books on the same trip.”
“Small little bookstore located on the corner of an intersection. It’s cute. It could be easy to miss if you don’t look at the window sign or the GPS. The door makes it seem closed if you’re walking from an angled direction up to it. It was a quick in and out for me as I was only searching for a postcard, but I walked in on the shopkeeper taking her time to explain things to one of the customers so I assume she’s informative and helpful. I mainly ran into a lot of children’s books when I popped in, but I believe they had more selections along the other wall.
No postcard at the time :( but I think she said that she would be restocking them the next day (I’d be leaving Baltimore the next day 😭)”
“Quaint little record shop where I always find an album I am not looking for but need in my collection. Knowledgeably staff help find the rarities of shop and the backstory of the music.”
“A Baltimore institution (and even if it weren't, my favorite coffee shop in the city). As a place to get a cup of coffee (or tea) and hang out, it's great and you'll always find something interesting in the bookstore or on the Zine wall. But RE is also a central player in Baltimore's co-op and solidarity economy - make sure to check out one of the many, many, radical and community events they host.”
“Leaving this review to show my condolences and support for the small business. Wishing you a safe and speedy recovery.
Photo credit: Baltimore Sun.”
“I’d give this place ten stars if I could. They have a reading corner near the storefront window, seating in front of the cafe, and an array of books and comics. I had a mini quiche and a matcha latte, and both were really good. The staff members were friendly, knowledgeable, and helped me find my titles. They had four of the five things I came for, and one was sold out, but it’s still nice to know they carry it. I’ll definitely be going back. I went early on a Saturday and there was plenty of street parking.”
“Great selection and friendly staff! I absolutely love browsing here and always find at least one book that looks amazing. If they don’t have something you’re looking for in stock, they can order it for you right then and there. One of the best book stores in the city?”
“Absolutely fantastic experience! I came here for Record Store Day, and the staff could not have been kinder or more helpful. I called a few weeks in advance, and the staff member let me know they had the record I was looking for. They also mentioned they had moved locations and kindly gave me the new address so I wouldn’t accidentally go to the old spot.
On the day of, I called before they were even open to make sure I was in the right place. Since they haven’t officially opened yet and don’t have their new signs up, a staff member actually came outside to greet me and personally confirm I was in the correct location.
All around a wonderful experience with genuinely thoughtful customer service. I will definitely be back!”
“Great seforim selection and the staff is very knowledgeable of their merchandise as well as knowing their customers to help them find the right sefer for their needs. I can spend a day just browsing in their easily ?”
“The most amazing store there is. Tranquil music and lightly incensed air welcome you inside. The employees are knowledgeable and they can help you acquire any special request gems or books they dont have in stock. Wonderful selection already. If you aren't careful you may spend an hour just admiring. Thank you store for existing!!!!!!!”
“Peace and Love to the World ?....... this institution is phenomenal ?. I was able to receive any and every book I wanted while I served a ten (10) year prison sentence. And their timing was on time every time.”
“I wish I had more time during my visit. My grandson and I were searching for a specific item, and although we weren’t able to look as long as we wanted, we were treated very well. The customer service was kind and helpful, which made the experience enjoyable despite the time constraint.”
“Excellent customer service. They went out of their way to help me with a DIY compass repair. I can't recommend them highly enough, and I'll be getting all my navigation supplies from them in the future.”
“Such a wonderful find on W 36th Street!
Chana, Fred and Charlotte are a delight to speak with and have a wonderful eye for all of the items in their shop!
My personal favourite is the jewellery section, which Chana looks after, and I found a gorgeous silver bracelet to take back with me as a memento of visiting Baltimore!
(I had to refrain from buying up loads of books in the bookshop as I wouldn’t be able to lug them in my suitcase but I can confirm they have a lovely variety!)
Definitely not a store to be missed and I would recommend this store for history aficionados and fashion lovers!
Thank you for making the buying experience a fun one!
Best wishes,
Emma”
“Nice modern store. This location is a smaller version of the stores I've visited before. Still, it has a very good and varied selection of books. The employees were helpful, knowledgeable, and professional.
Car parking is tight”
“Assalamualaikum. Pleased with my experience. I ordered a Quran translation in the Indo-Pak script that I couldn't find anywhere else, as well as books about the sahabah. Alhamdulillah I just received them. I ordered from Canada and shipping took a little over 2 weeks. Alhamdulillah I would recommend this store!”
“What a cool spot. We just happened to stumble upon it and were were glad we did. Fantastic vinyl selection, great book selection, chill vibe, awesome host. It should one hundred percent be on your list in Baltimore.”
10AM - 7PM
7006 Reisterstown Rd, Baltimore
Book Stores
“This is the gem of Baltimore. This store is so gorgeous well organized and well-stocked with a fantastic abundant and fascinating collection of Jewish books. The Judaica and art are similarly rich in choice and style. I was absolutely wowed and I'm so excited to go back and bring my friends.”
“Pretty sick place. Got some good books and stickers. It’s relatively over priced there but I understand bc it’s locally owned and like a small business. I’ll def be coming back.”
“Really fantastic remote work or student work option for coffee as they have a nice atmosphere and plenty of space to work. Great coffee options as well with a few interesting twists like the vanilla mint matcha I tried. I didn't try one but their pastry options looked fantastic.”
“They are a true gem in our community! Not only do they provide top-notch Russian language and cultural education, but they also offer a wide range of additional language options and engaging activities. The staff is incredibly professional, welcoming, and understanding, creating a warm and supportive environment for learners. Highly recommend!””
“I ordered books online for pick up at the Towson branch and I’m satisfied with my order. Books are in better condition than I thought since most don’t have pictures online. The guy working there even helped me with my very heavy box of books. Thank you so much. I will be back to order more.”