The Top Bookstores in San Jose

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.