A Guide to Berkeley Bookstores
Great Bookstores You Have to Visit in Berkeley
You may not know it but Berkeley is home to some amazing bookstores. Both used and new, you can find anything from popular releases to hidden gems. But where should you go and for what types of books?
You can use this list as a guide to Berkeley’s bookstores.
Moe’s Books
As far as Berkeley’s used bookstores go, Moe’s has the largest and most varied selection. They do carry new releases, but it’s their used selection that gets them a spot on this list. Multiple floors of great deals make this place a real joy to explore in addition to serving as a reliable source for great deals. Their proximity to the Cal campus also means they end up with a lot of texts at the end of every semester that you’re sure to find on a required reading list for a class or two. If you’re taking an English or literature course definitely stop by here first before going to the student store or Amazon.
Half Price Books
Next to Moe’s, Half Price is the next biggest bookstore in Berkeley. Its selection may not be as extensive but they make up for it in the genres and categories of books they do carry. Their business and economics selection definitely set them apart. In addition, they also have an exceptional collection of old comic books, used music, movies, and television shows for sale at great prices. If you’re looking for music (and other media) there are many specialty stores in Berkeley that can address that need better, but you can definitely find some good deals here.
Fantastic Comics
Definitely, the place to go for your comic fix. Some people in town might still refer to Fantastic Comics as Comic Relief but it actually changed hands (and its name) a few years ago. If you’re looking for new and popular titles they’ve got your back. If you’re in the market for some more obscure and unique stuff they’re worth the trip as well. Interested in Japanese manga? They’ve got both new and (on occasion) hard to find titles too. In addition, they also carry some neat toys, figures, and plushies that will make the nerd in you scream with joy.
Pegasus Books
Pegasus is an interesting mix of both used and new books. They actually have two locations: one on Shattuck and one farther into North Berkeley on Solano. Their Solano store has a great used selection. It’s not as big as either Moe’s or Half-Price but they tend to have some neat deals on signed books and a pretty good history selection. Their Shattuck store is comparable to Books Inc. in North Berkeley, but they’re closer to campus and have a better selection of new books than their used bookstore peers in the area.
Eastwind Books
Eastwind is a cool little shop on University that caters to those looking for books focused on the Asian American experience as well as helpful tools for those looking to learn a foreign language. You won’t find anything like it elsewhere in Berkeley so if you’re interested in Asian American culture or plan on traveling to Asia and want to prepare, you should definitely stop by.
Revolution Books
Revolution Books really does feel like the quintessential Berkeley bookstore. They aren’t going to win on quantity or prices, but if you’re looking for information and ideas around culture, race, class, gender, and other core aspects of the human experience then Revolution Books needs to be on your list. In addition to an amazing collection of books on these topics, they have a knowledgeable and passionate staff that can help you navigate your way to what’s right for you. If you came to Berkeley because you were interested in its activist roots, you can’t miss Revolution Books.
Friends of the Berkeley Public Library
This is a cool little shop nearby the dorms in the same shopping center as Revolution Books. Friends of the Berkeley Public Library is a non-profit that takes in donations and raises money for events and other areas of support for Berkeley’s public libraries. Their selection isn’t always fantastic but their prices are often better than online and even other used bookstores. You’ll never know what you’ll come across in here, but it’s such a good deal and it’s so close to campus that it’s a great first stop in any book search.
Mrs. Dalloway's
Located farther down College avenue, Mrs. Dalloway’s is a fine store for those looking for books on poetry, gardening, and other hobbies. They have a decent selection of new stuff in all areas but they surpass their peers in the area in the aforementioned categories. In addition, they also host author signings and readings regularly so it’s worth checking in to see what’s upcoming.
You'll Want to Book-Mark This Page
The next time you get a reading list for class or are looking for some new material check out this guide first before emptying your wallet at the student bookstore. You can also find this list on the Gojurn app (available for iOS and Android), If you have any other recommendations you think deserve a spot in this article let us know here.