The Best Used Bookstores in Long Beach, CA

Long Beach is a city that seemingly has it all.

From gorgeous beaches to nature parks to doses of culture & authenticity, it’s hard-pressed to find not be able something in this city that’s fulfilling, entertaining, and jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Included in that broad sphere of what this city has to offer are geared more toward bibliophiles. Bookstores, to be precise.

But these bookstores that lay spread out in this city aren’t your ordinary Barnes & Noble you can find in most major cities.

These here consist of used book stores. 

You’re probably wondering, why would I want to go to a used bookstore instead of a new one?

Well, you certainly can. But the atmosphere, selection, and overall vibe of the store is completely different than a new bookstore.

Used bookstores typically have out of print books that you can’t get at many places. Don’t be surprised to find signed copies of books either.

Here is our list of some of the best, used bookstores in Long Beach, CA in no particular order.

If you aren’t a fan of vintage books right now, you just might be by the end of this article.

Let’s dive in.

BEST USED BOOKSTORES IN LONG BEACH, CA

1. Once Read Books

Once Read Books has a large selection of hard to find, out of print, used, and rare books.

Over 35,000 of them to be more specific.

You can find books of almost every genre at their brick and mortar location. 

Also check out their website for more information on books, searching for specific books in stock, their trading and purchasing policy, and more. 

You can also buy virtual gift cards for your friends and family.

Address:

5422 E. Village Road

Long Beach, CA 90808 

Store Hours:

Monday – Saturday 10am-7pm

Sunday 12-5 pm

Mail Order Phone Hours:

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 10-7 pm

2. Planet Books

Planet Books has a huge collection of used books here, but that’s certainly not all they have. 

They carry vintage toys, mid-century books, posters, and collectibles. This establishment is a true dream for vintage collectors.

Plant Books also has a selection of featured items that are all signed by their creators including lithographs, maps, old books, and cool posters.

You can purchase these cool items online or in-store. We recommend visiting the store in person to get the full experience.

Address:

3917 E Anaheim St

Long Beach, CA 90804

Store Hours:

Monday: 11:30 am – 6pm

Tuesday: 11:30 am – 6pm

Wednesday: 11:30 am – 6pm

Thursday: 11:30 am – 6pm

Friday: 11:30 am – 6pm

Saturday: 10:00 am – 5pm

Sunday: 10:00 am – 5pm

3. Gatsby Books

Gatsby Books is a delightful independent used bookstore that offers a great selection of books at affordable prices, both new and old.

They are known for their stellar customer service in helping you find a book you’re looking for, or even recommending something new.

While you’re there perusing the store for some awesome books, you might just run into, or be nuzzled by the bookstore cat named Ruby. She makes for an entertaining visit!

Gatsby also offers services including book readings and their The Black Swan Book Club.

Make sure to pay them a visit and enjoy some free coffee while you’re at it.

Address:

5535 E Spring St

Long Beach, CA 90808

Store Hours:

Monday: 10:00 am – 6pm

Tuesday: 10:00 am – 6pm

Wednesday: 10:00 am – 6pm

Thursday: 10:00 am – 6pm

Friday: 10:00 am – 6pm

Saturday: 10:00 am – 6pm

Sunday: 10:00 am – 5pm

4. Page Against the Machine

Much like Rage Against the Machine, their motto is ‘Fightin’ words for mass defiance, empowerment, and self-reliance!’

PATM is a proudly independent bookstore with knowledgeable and friendly staff, carrying a large selection of books ranging from genres including:

Activism & Organizing

Cool & Unusual Nourishment

Music & Film

Science & Medicine

Humor & Comics

And much more

According to their website, they are able to ‘special order most books that are newer and/or still in print.’ Very handy, and here is how you go about doing that.

One reviewer says – 

“Books aren’t dead. Even more lively here, I immediately loved the small intimate feel of the store- original choice of literature and products, I love it!”

When in Long Beach, make sure to check this one out. You’ll be glad you did.

Address:

2714 E 4th St

Long Beach, CA 90814

 Store Hours:

Monday: 11:00 am – 6pm

Tuesday: 11:00 am – 6pm

Wednesday: 11:00 am – 6pm

Thursday: 11:00 am – 6pm

Friday: 11:00 am – 6pm

Saturday: 11:00 am – 6pm

Sunday: 11:00 am – 6pm

5. Fingerprints Music

Fingerprints Music, as the name implies, is considered more of a record store than a used bookstore.

While music is the dominant factor here, their great selection of used books brings many people in just for that reason. They have a comfortable couch located nearby to seat those who want to relax and read.

This establishment makes for a great place to visit because of their variety of things that they sell and can have you walking around here for hours. Alongside their books and music (including vinyls, CD’s and cassettes), they also sell cool posters, knickknacks, memorabilia, and toys.

One reviewer comments –

“This is such a fun store, I’ve been here several times, it’s a perfect spot to go treasure hunting, especially if you love art and music.”

They even have live performers from local bands, as well as meet and greets and signings. 

Address:

420 E 4th St

Long Beach, CA 90802

Store Hours:

Monday: 10:00 am – 9:00pm

Tuesday: 10:00 am – 9:00pm

Wednesday: 10:00 am – 9:00pm

Thursday: 10:00 am – 9:00pm

Friday: 10:00 am – 10:00pm

Saturday: 110:00 am – 10:00pm

Sunday: 10:00 am – 9:00pm

Looking for convenient hotel accommodations for a fun weekend in Long Beach? Hotel Current is conveniently located in central Long Beach just minutes away from all the action of downtown, the airport, and many used bookstores. If you’re looking for even more things to do in the LBC, check out our attractions page. Book your local stay with Hotel Current today!