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February 2024 by Gracie C.
Staff was super nice and helpful! Good prices for thrift books, only complaint would be that it's hard to find queer books written by women
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February 2024 by Dylan A.
My recent visit to Giovanni's Room was nothing short of magical. My partner surprised me with a romantic setup on the top floor, complete with LED candles, flowers, chocolate strawberries, and my favorite macaroons. But the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the handmade book filled with journal entries capturing the essence of our relationship, culminating in a heartfelt proposal. Christopher and Kelly, the staff at Giovanni's Room, played an integral role in making this moment unforgettable. Their kindness, support, and attentiveness added a layer of warmth that elevated the entire experience. From offering recommendations to ensuring every detail was perfect, they went above and beyond to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Giovanni's Room isn't just a bookstore; it's a sanctuary where love stories come to life. Whether you're browsing for the perfect read or planning a special moment, you can count on Christopher, Kelly, and the entire team to make it extraordinary. Thank you for an unforgettable evening--I'll cherish the memories created at Giovanni's Room forever.
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October 2023 by Hannah Tran
If you’re queer and love books, or if you want to read more queer literature, just go already. So many secondhand and new books available, plus a small secondhand clothing section too. It’s a *beautiful* space (2 floors), quiet and calm. The staff were friendly and helpful, and whoever picks the music got taste lol
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October 2023 by Julie C.
The store is definitely something that you should take your time and go through everything that they have to offer there from the home goods to the fashion to the vintage wear. My only complaint was that it was a bit overpriced for a Consignment/used clothing store, but you could find some real key signature pieces for your closet and hard to find vintage wear- it's a bit crowded to navigate through so you will need time to find items on the rack. The jewelry area, and the accessories are also a bit hard to sift through. But overall, it's definitely worth the time to go check it out.
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September 2023 by K. Anna Savage
Great queer centric place filled with gems (books, clothes, cds, even vintage p*rn, etc and very kind and friendly staff. Also had books on the intersection of queerness/ transness and disability which I enjoyed. Only thing is not the most accessible space (3 steps up at front door, steps to get across the front door not even level, and steps up to second floor. Somewhat expected in an old historic city building but still.Immediate feedback- PLEASE secure the small handrail added to the wall on the flight up to second floor- it was rocky and unstable/ not secured properly.
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August 2023 by Oscar R.
My wife was very anxious to visit this store for the first time. She spent two hours inside and selected 23 oversized architecture and art books for purchase. Since they were so many and heavy she told the young fellow at the counter that while he can prepare the bill for this extraordinary large purchase she will go to pull her car in front. It was exactly 7:43pm. This individual informed her that they close rigorously at 8 pm without exceptions. Presuming she might not get back on time before closing, the front desk attendant took the books out of the counter. My wife informed him and a second older bookstore employee that after spending so much time she was not whiling to waste all that effort. She asked to be billed and paid 440.97 US$. Payment went through with no problems. Then she ask the older employee if she can return tomorrow to pick them up, but he said that they do not hold books even after they are paid. They offered to bring the two boxes with all of them an leave them unattended on the street while she makes whatever arrangements she chose to make. Understanding the insensible way to deal with this issue she asked to keep the books inside and started a frenetic run to get her car. She arrived back to the store at 7:57. The door was already looked but they open and she collected the two boxes. She informed them that after this very insensible and uncooperative treatment this first visit will be her last. I sincerely don't understand why they did not gave her option of next day pick up something that given the circumstances was a little more humane and even respectful to a person that purchased in her first visit 23 books. As a member of the LGBTQ member she thought that she will feel at "home" in this bookstore. Evidently she learn a very different reality. Too bad since the books she brought are quite good. My rating is the lowest I can give since even a great building with great books is an uncomfortable environment if the people managing are not more accommodating to good customer. Probably they don't care to lose customers.
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July 2023 by Tiffany Gonzalez
Really excited to have found a new bookstore in the Philly area. I walked in and immediately was greeted by laughter and a very friendly staff. It's a huge location that serves as both a thrift store and a bookstore, with new and used books at affordable prices. It also serves as a great place for the queer community and it's allies. There's a monthly book club, a gathering place in the upstairs floor and donations from purchases are made to the Philly AIDS fund.
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July 2023 by M Merriet
I love this place. Great atmosphere. Great people. Lots of interesting titles.
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July 2023 by Tina S.
Love this place! My second time here and somehow I missed the cute thrift section in the back of the 1st floor!? Came back to pick up a book and ended up browsing and leaving with 2 more!
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July 2023 by Irene C.
I saw this place on TikTok and immediately wanted to visit while in Philly for the weekend. The entire staff was super friendly and helpful. The store itself was warm and colorful. You'll find used books, thrift clothing, Knick knacks and music here. The upper level has new books and releases as well as a staff monitored adults only section. There's something for everyone but my favorite part was finding books on the shelves that I don't normally see in major retail stores ranging all genres and with a focus on feminist and queer literature. Highly recommend stopping by and supporting a great business. I'll definitely be coming back.
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June 2023 by Lauren I.
I think it's rare these days to find a business that feels like its part of a community. PAT at Giovanni's Room has that feel. It's open and inviting in a way that most stores aren't; I would feel comfortable going in just to browse and there were other customers there who clearly were doing the same. Service is genuinely friendly. I ended up purchasing a nice button-down and pair of pants. The selection of everything is in excellent quality. One thing, they can apparently get books for you even if they don't have them in stock. This is a great way to actually support local --- order it from the store instead of Amazon! I'll definitely be back. I'd like to get my hands on a Playbill (they sell old Playbills too!) and they rotate their stock quite frequently.
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June 2023 by Ren N.
Small shop with a big statement. LGBTQ representing! Here you'll find a lot of new and used books on the topic of gay, lesbian, non binary stories, fiction non fiction you name it. There is also a nice collection of painting, art work and certain little collectible things to look at. Definitely check it out! Donate to this place if you can.
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June 2023 by Megan C.
One of my new favorite places in Philadelphia! This is a space steeped in queer history (on many levels), and is perfectly situated in the beautiful Gayborhood. You can't miss their presence when walking by and the store itself does a great job of storytelling on every floor. The staff and volunteers are some of the friendliest folks imaginable, and are quick with a recommendation or quick bit of Giovanni's Room history. While books are the star of the show here, you'll also find some really nice thrifted wearables, especially on the second floor. Dedicate some time here and come in with an open mind, you'll likely end up leaving with something you didn't know you needed. I left with a Bell Hooks collection on my last visit and was deeply appreciative of their large section dedicated to APIHM Heritage Month. If I could pick a space that is representative of "what effective intersectionality can aspire to look like at it's best," it would be here. I will be back anytime I am in the neighborhood and am truly grateful this gem exists. Cozy up and find something amazing to read or wear, and don't forget to walk up ALL the stairs for special surprises at every turn.
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June 2023 by Liza Linder
The country's oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore! Wonderful and very friendly service! Plus, Philly AIDS Thrift smaller version is located inside too! If you're a tourist, definitely make it a stop on your trip. If you're a community member, tons of resources, books, buttons, flags and stickers! HAPPY PRIDE MONTH!!
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June 2023 by not today
Big space with lots of stuff to look atGood $1 bins with newer brands in them and a ton of office wear or work type of clothesLots of records
