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Bookstores in San Diego, CA

Looking for bookstores near you in San Diego? This page lists 12 independent bookstores in San Diego, California, from Book Off!, Book Tree, Bookstar/Loma Theatre and more. Each listing links to the business website and shows the address, phone number and opening hours when they are published. Featured businesses appear first.

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12 bookstores in San Diego

BO

Book Off!

Bookstore · 4240 Kearny Mesa Road

Hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-20:00

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BT

Book Tree

Bookstore · 3316 Adams Avenue

Website: thebooktree.com

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BT

Bookstar/Loma Theatre

Bookstore · 3150 Rosecrans Place

Hours: Sun 10:00-19:00; Mon-Sat 10:00-21:00

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LP

La Playa Books

Bookstore · 1026 Rosecrans Street

Hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat 10:00-17:00; Sun 10:00-16:00

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LS

Library Shop Mission Hills

Bookstore · 925 West Washington Street

Website: libraryfoundationsd.org

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MG

Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore

Bookstore · 3555 Rosecrans Street

Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00-19:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-18:00

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SB

SDSU Bookstore

Bookstore

Website: shopaztecs.com

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SY

San Ysidro Branch Library

Bookstore · 4235 Beyer Boulevard

Website: sandiego.gov

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TB

The Book Catapult

Bookstore · 3010-B Juniper Street

Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-17:00

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US

UC San Diego Bookstore

Bookstore · 9500 Gilman Drive

Hours: Mon-Fri 08:00-18:00, Sat 11:00-16:00

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UC

Upstart Crow bookstore & cafe

Bookstore · 835 C West Harbor Drive

Website: upstartcrowtrading.com

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VB

Verbatim Books

Bookstore · 3793 30th Street

Hours: Mon, Wed-Thu, Sun 10:00-18:00; Tue 12:00-18:00; Fri-Sat 10:00-19:00

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How to choose a bookstore in San Diego

  • Ask the staff for recommendations. Independent booksellers love matching readers with titles, and they can often special-order books they do not have in stock.
  • Check store events, such as author readings, book clubs, and children's story times, on the store's website or newsletter, and call ahead if you plan to attend.
  • If you want to sell books, ask about their used-book buying policy, what they accept, and whether they pay cash or offer store credit.
  • Ask about loyalty programs, gift cards, and gift wrapping, and about shipping if you want to send a book to someone out of town.

Frequently asked questions

How many bookstores are listed in San Diego?

Essential Biz Directory currently lists 12 independent bookstores in San Diego, California. New businesses are added regularly, and owners can add their own listing for a one-time fee of $9.99.

How do I choose between bookstores in San Diego?

Start with location and opening hours, then visit each business website to compare services, credentials and pricing. Contact two or three options with the same questions so you can compare their answers side by side.

How do I find a good bookstore near me?

Search your city for independent shops, used bookstores, or specialty stores that match your interests. Visit during quieter hours to browse and chat with staff. Check their event calendar for readings and book clubs. Ask friends and neighbors, and check the store's social media to see whether its recommendations and events fit your reading taste.

How much do books cost at an independent bookstore?

Prices vary by title and whether the book is new or used. New books typically carry the publisher's list price, while used books often cost less. Ask about membership or loyalty discounts. Used books, remainders, and paperbacks usually cost less than new hardcovers, and many shops offer discounts for members or when you trade in books, so ask what programs are available at the counter.

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