Have you finished reading everything on your bookshelf? Started reading ingredient lists while waiting for your library Overdrive book to come in or for you Robbins Library pickup time to be here? Tired of waiting for Amazon to actually ship anything non-essential? Check out these other bookstores and places to find books.
Local Bookstores
While it’s fun to wander store bookshelves in our local stores, sometimes it’s convenient to order online. Most shops use Bookshop.org to fullfill online orders. Bookshop.org then shares profits with the local stores - a key way to support your independent bookshop!
- The Book Rack still offers local delivery for a $1 fee, and has a Bookshop.org portal
- Belmont Books, with a cafe also sells through their Bookshop.org portal
- Book Ends in Winchester center and Bookshop.org portal
- Porter Square Books
- Harvard Book Store has a Bookshop.org portal
- More Than Words is selling online, and all proceeds go to their youth work initiatives - they’re also still accepting book donations at their Waltham location.
Used Bookstores Worth Buying From
Can’t wait for shipping? There are tons of online library programs, and Arlingtonian Steve Rothman has a great explainer about online libraries!
Yes, Virginia, used books are just as good as new. Here are some worthwhile used booksellers to check out.
- Better Worlds Books is a certified B corporation with a huge selection that I use (my affiliate link includes $5 off a $30 order!)
- Abe Books has everything, including textbooks
- ALibris sells their own books as well as having portals for local bookshops.
Little Free Libraries And Book Swaps In Town
Did you know there are 20 Little Free Libraries in Arlington alone? These tiny little houses offer free books for trading anytime. See the map of all locations.
If you want to swap books with neighbors, there are two Facebook groups all about swapping (private groups; you’ll need to be approved to view):
- Everything Is Free Arlington is a very friendly community all about posting ISO or free items, including books.
- Arlington, MA READERS is a new group dedicated to book swapping, and there’s plenty of traffic.
Got More Ideas?
Email us your suggestions - we update this site frequently!
In a pinch, any smartphone or computer can turn into an e-reader