“Kind staff, great selection of toys and games, my go-to store for when I need gifts for my niece and nephew. Free present wrapping is clutch, and their rewards program often has actually great deals. Thanks, Boing!”
“Anywhere that has books is awesome but Porter Square Books goes above and beyond. I keep coming back time and again because of the people as well as the selection!”
“Harvard Book Store sits on Massachusetts Avenue in Harvard Square and has been a fixture of the Cambridge intellectual landscape long enough that it functions as a landmark rather than just a retail destination. The large windows and stacked displays visible from the street invite you in before you have made any decision to enter, and once inside the floor-to-ceiling shelves and the density of the selection create an atmosphere that is difficult to rush through even when you came in with a specific title in mind.
The main floor covers new releases, staff picks, and a broad selection organized by subject across fiction, nonfiction, and a range of specialized categories. The curation reflects the surrounding community in the best way, with titles that reward browsing beyond the obvious bestseller tables. Staff are knowledgeable and genuinely helpful when you want a recommendation or need to locate something specific, and the information desk handles navigation questions efficiently without making you feel like you are interrupting.
The basement is where the store distinguishes itself most clearly from a standard bookshop. The used and remaindered book sections downstairs cover an enormous range at a fraction of the cover price, and the quality of the used stock tends to be high. Spending time down there is one of the more rewarding ways to move through the store, and most visitors come up with something they were not looking for when they went down. The remaindered section in particular offers discounted new copies of titles that did not move at full price, and the selection rotates enough that regular visits continue to surface new things.”
“What an unbelievable find. They have an extensive selection of used and rare books covering every topic imaginable—from history and philosophy to math and mystery. Don't miss the huge $3–$5 outside display (look for the yellow stickers). Amazing prices and an incredible selection!”
11AM - 4:30PM
9 Spring Ln, Boston
Book Stores
“A great bookstore, very large, well stocked and organized. Many historical and more recent books. I looked for a book by Dennis Lehane (the author of Mystic River, who is from Boston) but couldn't find it. Damage. But an address that I recommend for lovers of old paper.”
“Called this store to find a hard to find magazine and not only they had it but the agent whom I spoke was extremely kind and offered to hold it for me. I went there and found a top notch book store that includes an entire floor of used books. The staff was an absolute pleasure. I will certainly be back to this hidden jewel!”
“The book rack is a very special independent book store. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. They sure pack a lot of new and used books into the space they have. Make sure to sign up for an account and trade in the books you've finished. Love this place.”
10AM - 5PM
124 Salem St, Boston
Book Stores
“Their array and pricing has something for all. I always have to stop to look at the books outside and I love that inside people sit on the floor and look through books. The only thing missing is a cat that will sit in the sun and sometimes choose you to be the one to lay with as you browse.”
“Fabulous women-owned bookstore in Jamaica Plain, selling, as far as I could tell, only new books. Leave plenty of time to browse - the selection of books is wide ranging, and, for a relatively small space, very large and comprehensive. The exterior signage alone is remarkable! Definitely among my favorite bookstores world-wide. I came away with their The Papercuts Anthology: What Happened Here, a collection of poems, essays, and fiction by authors they hosted during their first year (2014) in business. What a nice souvenir, co-edited by the store's owner, Kate Layte.”
“I've been to this bookstore several times now, and love the atmosphere. It has a really nice and wide variety of books for its small/cozy size. There are also cute products in the front of the store. I stumbled upon a concert there earlier this year ??”
10AM - 4PM
488 Main St, Melrose
Book Stores
“Stopped in for a last minute birthday gift and the staff was super helpful recommending the perfect gift for a 4 year old! Great selection of toys and crafts with a book section as well. They also gift wrap!”
“Seven Star Bookstore and Crystal Store is a shining beacon in the neighborhood, earning a "rock-solid" seven-star rating from me! While crystals may not be my forte, their impressive collection of books sorted by themes ensures there's a star-worthy read for everyone.The bookstore offers a diverse range of books sorted by themes, ensuring that there's something for everyone. Whether you're into history, learning, or exploring new genres, you're bound to find a book that captures your interest.What sets Seven Star apart is its progressive vibe, perfectly in tune with the spirit of Cambridge. The store's dedication to providing a wide selection of books and fostering a welcoming environment is commendable.Having such a great bookstore in the neighborhood adds immense value to the community. It's a place where book lovers can explore, discover new reads, and engage with like-minded individuals. Kudos to Seven Star Bookstore and Crystal Store for being a fantastic addition to the neighborhood!This store's name isn't just a celestial coincidence; it truly lives up to its stellar reputation. From their diverse book selection to their welcoming atmosphere, Seven Star Bookstore and Crystal Store is a "gem" in Cambridge!”
11AM - 5PM
559 Main St, Winchester
Book Stores
“The staff here are very nice and super helpful! I was looking for a air fryer cookbook for my roommate and two of the staff helped me search through their cooking section for it. When we couldn’t find it, they looked on the computer and even went to the back room to find a copy for me. 10/10 customer service :)”
11AM - 7PM
127 Newbury St, Boston
Book Stores
“I reached out to Posman books and they had exactly the books I was looking for, put them on hold for me, and I was able to pick them up the next day. The whole interaction was smooth and full human personality and kindness.”
“I love this book store! It’s bright and welcoming and the employees are always so nice. It’s located right on the waterfront too so it’s always a pleasure to walk here.”
“This store sells products and souvenirs with the theme of MIT, which is a research center of the highest level in the world, considered a leader in technology. They sell keychains, caps, t-shirts, sweaters, jackets, gloves, USB drives, among a variety of products. the prices...just like the rest of the state of Massachusetts, they are high prices. The clothes are made in other countries such as the Republica del Salvador, China y otros, however they are of very good quality.”
“I absolutely love local bookstores like Hummingbird because I can tell that the employees actually read and enjoy the books they sell. Nothing makes me happier than being complimented on my book choices when I check out, or a random comment about how they loved a particular book I'd picked up. It gives it an extremely warm and welcoming vibe, and that's why I visit as often as I can!
Their selection of titles is great too and I always find something new and interesting.”
“This is the cutest most whimsical little cafe I've ever been to. The styling is cozy and nostalgic of an early 2000's cafe like you'd find at Borders (the book store, when they were open). I got a hot chocolate, one of my friends got tea, and the others got coffee, and they were all out of this world. It's absolutely worth stopping here on a sunday morning with a book or a friend to play chess with when the world is waking up outside.”
“We go for breakfast fairly often when we bring our son to BU and we enjoy the fun vibe of the place. The food is good but I would not say it is noteworthy. I ordered poached eggs this time and I should have specified that I like them a bit firm and they were extremely runny but I perhaps should have said how I liked them - that said, we ordered via the QR code. I think in the future I will order directly through the servers because a couple of things happened as a result of us choosing QR. 1) We were served our coffee but nobody had given us any silverware and there was no wait-staff that wasn't already tending to other customers to bring us something to stir it with. I asked a passing server but they must have forgotten. So by the time our food came (with silverware) the coffee was cold. and 2) you can't specify stuff like "can they maybe cook the poached eggs a bit extra because I prefer them a bit firm. That all said, there is a happy vibe there and seems like lots of people are gathering there with someone they love and it has a buzzy happy feel. Plus the bookstore attached has so much fun stuff to browse. Best greeting card section ever. I stock up every timel”
“I’m not into Romance or Romantasy novels, but this place makes you fall in love regardless. And they truly have books and goodies that appeal to everyone. AND, if you like Romantasy, this is your Mothership.”
“Beautiful Catholic bookstore with a rather wide selection of cards, books, and gifts. The Pauline sisters staffing the shop were very helpful and kind. Be sure to check out their lovely little chapel for a moment of quiet prayer!”
“It's a very beautiful and calming place , I remember going in there with my friend and getting to meet the cat and owner I was also very Honnored to get the opertunity to play the piano ❤️”
10AM - 4PM
79 Leonard St, Belmont
Book Stores
“I LOVE that we have such bookstore in our town, it’s really amazing. When I couldn’t find my book in store you can always pay first and they will order for you , once your item been filled you will get notification to go pick it up, it’s super convenient. I highly recommend this bookstore. Such wonderful store”
“I consider it one of the best bookstores in the region. It's worth visiting and before going down, stop at the cafe on the ground floor for a nice cappuccino.”
“One of the best experiences I've had for a small business owned and operated. They went above and beyond to make my experience the best book buying experience.”
“Griffin was the man ! Took his time & went through 2 binders filled with vintage Pokemon & gave me the best price possible. Tbh more than I was expecting. Nothing but honest & warm welcoming people as soon as you enter the establishment. Thank you Griffin !”
11AM - 6PM
153 Harvard Ave, Allston
Book Stores
“Love this place!! They have every book you’d ever seek on all ritual art subjects and great insight if you don’t know which to get. Their jewelry is gorgeous and handmade. I love every piece I’ve ever bought, even found matching crystal studs of the same crystal”
“I love coming to this place the music on it makes me feel warm. There are plants everywhere and they get the best iced hot chocolates. Me dad loves scones and they have a bunch here. They also have birthday cards that are so funny. And their shirts are out of this world. I highly recommend this store!!!!!!”
“Wonderful wonderful. Rema is a gift herself as is the rest of the employees. They need to be commended for their outstanding and above and beyond enthusiasm and performances.”
“I had an amazing experience at this lovely black owned bookstore. I was greeted with a friendly face, and I felt extremely welcomed and appreciated the display of all the books. I will definitely be back. 10/10 recommend”