Looking for a rare book or first edition? Maybe you just like reading a book that has some character. Either way, a used bookstore is in your future. While the winter continues and we stay indoors, a book can be a best friend. Add to that a need to perhaps keep a few coins in your pocket, and a used bookstore becomes a refuge of affordable entertainment.
The hunt is on! Check out these local shops where you can find that story surprise you didn’t know you were looking for.
Charlin’s Book Nook
925 S. Main St., Frankenmuth
Take a quick jaunt north to the charming Bavarian city of Frankenmuth to find this wholesome, little shop that offers rare and first editions, as well as a variety of titles in almost every category.
Totem Books
620 W. Court St., Flint
A part of the Flint community, this Downtown hangout offers a large and eclectic selection of used books and vinyl in a variety of genres. The shop’s café will keep your thirst and hunger in check while you browse, serving hot/cold sandwiches, coffee, cappuccinos and other beverages (as restrictions allow). Totem hosts unique fairs and book-signings – check Facebook for current details.
Comma Bookstore & Social Hub
132 W. 2nd St., Flint
The new kid on the block! Opened in Downtown Flint proper during the pandemic, this bookstore has created quite a buzz. Works by black, indigenous and people of color are in the limelight, featuring new, used and special editions.
Cottage Used Books
8331 S. State Rd., Goodrich
Located on the city’s main road, this store offers a little bit of everything – hardcover and paperbacks in nearly every imaginable genre. During the pandemic, each book received by the bookstore undergoes a three-day quarantine and disinfection period, and curbside pickup is available.
R&B Used Books
12830 Saginaw Rd., Grand Blanc
A sprawling 12 rooms offers genres from general fiction and mystery to history, self-help, sci-fi, children’s and more. In operation for over 15 years, the shop also hosts local author signings and book clubs. An appointment-shopping option is available; sign up at randbusedbooks.com.
Jellybeans Used Entertainment
2256 E. M21, Owosso
Shoppers find a plethora of used books, music and more. Browse an expansive collection of hardcovers, paperbacks, vinyl and CDs, as you look for that story or album you never knew you needed.
Lizz’s Books
14296 Fenton Rd., Fenton
Tucked away in the plaza near Sagebrush Cantina, this may be the place where you find that dreamt of edition. With shelves chock-full of all of your favorite authors and genres, this splendid little shop offers happy hunting.
The Neverending Story
356 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer
Nestled in historic Downtown Lapeer, this used book shop is definitely worth a browse. Search mystery, fantasy, science fiction and more to find that perfect read to get you through the winter or a long vacation.
Rereadables Used Books
6060 Bullard Rd., Fenton
Located next to Tyrone Lake on Fenton’s southern border (with Hartland), this little shop boasts over 50,000 titles!
