The Top Bookstores In San Jose

Those of us who relish the crisp edges of hard back novels and the nostalgic smell of books can understand the importance of a good bookstore, no matter if you’re just browsing or on the hunt for the latest bestseller. Thankfully, San Jose, California, has more to offer than just your typical Barnes and Nobles. Check out this list for some untraditional bookstores in the neighborhood.
Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Recycle Book Store

True to its name, the Recycle Book Store is one of the few bookstores in San Jose that buys back old books. Started in 1967, this brand has curated a collection of handpicked books from the advice of local customers, and ‘created an oasis of culture in this busy Silicon Valley‘ lifestyle. Shimmy down to their locations in downtown San Jose or Campbell to browse through an endless supply of used books, sell back your old novels or even hang out with their bookstore cats.

Hicklebee’s Children’s Book Store

Growing up, many students in the South Bay Area can recall going to book fairs hosted by Hicklebee’s. Their location in Willow Glen is a staple of San Jose and frequently features new and top-selling authors and illustrators across the country. From kid’s books to thrilling sagas, there are books for people of all ages and varying interests. Pick out a shiny new book for a budding young reader, and have it gift wrapped for free in the store.

Kinokuniya Book Store

American book stores pale in comparison to the wonderful, colorful and adorable stationary and books of their Japanese counterparts. Kinokuniya Book Store is a great location to look for cute back to school supplies, Japanese language workbooks or even the latest instalment of your coveted manga series. Make sure you a set aside enough time to browse through the entire store — you’ll be glad you did!

Friends of the Dr. King Library Book Sale

Though not technically a bookstore, the Martin Luther King Jr. Library is still a good place to find books at a fraction of the price. All proceeds generated from this book sale go toward funding various programs in the community, while also providing new material to your bookshelf at home. Located next to San Jose State University, the book sales are held monthly on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Authors Bookstore

Nestled in the heart of the city, Authors Bookstore offers an extensive collection of books across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s literature. With its cozy ambiance and knowledgeable staff, it creates a welcoming environment for readers to explore and discover new titles. The store also hosts author events, book clubs, and literary discussions, fostering a vibrant community of book enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a bestseller or a hidden gem, Authors Bookstore in San Jose is a must-visit destination for bibliophiles.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.