Once Read Books - Long Beach, California

N R

What a gem of a place. Amazing selection, kind owner and staff, and located in a really cool little neighborhood. The smell alone sent me into flashback mode, and I found two rare Vivekananda books that I've never seen. Absolutely worth spending half a day in here. I heard they've been in business for 37 years (25 at this location). Hope they're around for many more. I'll definitely be back.

Cookiedough 69

A huge collection of great vintage books, and even some new ones here and there. The prices are fairly reasonable; the usual cost per book is about 3.95. I was especially shocked to find some old copies of sci Fi and fantasy pulps for less than 20 dollars. If you're a collector of old books, check it out; you won't be disappointed.

Kelly Anderson

I love getting pulp novels and vintage books here. The owner and his staff are unobtrusive but always willing to help. The most lovely thing about it is that it smells like used books--paper and glue.

Recommend

Daniel Medvec

Very adorable bookstore. A classic environment with a great selection of books. One of my favorite bookstores this side of the Mississippi!!! Definitely check it out!

Heather Thornton

I went here a couple weeks ago to check it out for the first time. Found some cool books. As I walked up to the register I saw a dude with long hair eating his lunch, which didn’t bother me at all. But as I was making the purchase the dude at the register burped in my face three times without even bothering to turn his mouth away from me or excuse himself. Pretty gnarly. Not sure if I want to go back again.

Ernan Patawaran

A true classic used bookstore. The closest thing to Acres of Books in the Long Beach/Lakewood area. I always make it a point to stop in when when in the area. Great folks...they have hardbacks, paperbacks, comic books, manga. Last of the true independents IMHO. Worth visiting!

Jessica Davis

My late husband's beloved home away from home and one of my best recommended visits for out of towners: my recent visit was with two dear friends from NM needing travel reads and they were delighted.

David Kravitz

I stumbled upon this gem of a used bookstore in prominent plain sight while visiting the East Side neighborhood of Long Beach, CA off of E Carson and N Bellflower.

Even if you do not frequent bookstores, you must stop in and visit this slice of bygone Americana, where every horizontal and vertical surface is covered with used hardback and paperback books with the walls covered with all manner of photographs, postcards, posters, paintings, and announcements. Details adorn every nook and cranny with something to peak the interest and delight the eye.

While very reasonably priced books of all manner and topic fill the store, it is the employees who are the stars of Once Read Books. Truly the most amiable, conscientious, and well versed purveyors of tomes once, twice, or even thrice read. They are a delight at making all who enter feel welcomed and remembered.

Once Read Books has a definite great vibe and positive waves.