If you love getting lost in a good browse, 2nd & Charles is such a fun spot to spend an afternoon. It's like a treasure hunt every time you walk in--books, vinyl, games, and random gems you didn't even know you needed. The vibe is super chill, and the staff has always been friendly and helpful when I've had questions or needed recommendations. If you're into books, music, or just a little retail therapy with personality, this is definitely a spot worth visiting. Just be prepared... you probably won't leave empty-handed! read more

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The service was very family friendly. The selection was a wide variety, of books'. The value was so worth it. I will go back again.

Great place for vinyl . I live in Texas. I make sure I stop by every time I visit family in Alabama read more

What a great bookstore and media store. Lots of books, DVDs, collectibles, toys etc. Spacious aisles through the books section, not so much where the DVDs are shelved. Honestly, you need to visit this store. I will be back and try selling some of my books. read more

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Gave them 7-60 dollar retail value switch games and their 45 minute wait-offer was 36 dollars. Do not sell your games here. Huge waste of time and money. read more

My husband and I have been in a decluttering mode, and we've been cleaning out books that we don't plan to keep/read again. We've come here twice to drop off books for credit, and to say I've been shocked is an understatement. I understand the credit value is based on demand, etc, but when you drop off 50books, you expect to get more than $8. Yep. 8 bucks. That's 16 cents a book. And some of them were hardback. I would really like to see a print out of what each book brought... I think it's a little shady that they come back with a total with no explanation. Beware! read more

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We use them to swap our read books for new to us books. They always have a large section to choose from. However, there are used book stores that will give you better value for your trade-ins. read more

This place never improves. So I had some books I had to get rid of asap. I told my hubbie lets go take em to 2nd and Charles. Ok I was figuring my son could look in the manga I could meander around while we were waiting . We were thinking an hour to wait for them to go through the books. Ok no problem try 3 hrs!! What you should have said it was a bloody 3 hr wait from the start! Who the he double hockey sticks would wait 3 hrs for a few bucks. My time is more valuable and I'm not that poor peeps!!! Supposedly they were supposed to put the total that I was owed on my hubbies DL. Did they ? Who knows.. What saves this place from a one or zero they have loungefly purses that you cant get anywhere else ! I bought one and my hubbie bought me another for my up coming B'day . They were adorable and I couldn't make my decision which one to get lol. The employees are still dour and sullen . Do you have a type u only hire? Miserable people .. enquiring minds want to know.. You need to get the manga The way of the House husband in. It boggles my mind you have tons of other manga(not selling by the way) but not this series which when I was in Booksamillion they said was selling like hot cakes. He was looking for ones he didnt have. All in all this place is just as unpleasant as usual. Here's a tip that might get you a better rating hire pleasant, friendly people * I know there are some out there somewhere...maybe? Oh and stop with the coffee for the soldiers spiel and would it kill ya to furnish people a sack with their purchases . It's not that hard even walmart furnishes a bag to put your stuff in. read more

Cool store over gaming things only place I could find cod on the Wii but my Pikachu squish mellow coated alot but it was worth it

My dear friend Michele & me were in the area and happened upon 2nd and Charles. Michele is an avid reader and she travels with her "list". SHANE was the absolute best! She was able to purchase 20+ books with a coupon! She was in absolute heaven finding so many on her list. Our visit was a perfect end to a great vacation in the area. We will be back! Thank you SHANE! Henceforth, when we buy too many books we exclaim "SHANE made me do it!" read more

I have been shopping here for several years now. The prices on new items are pretty much MSRP, but you can find some good deals on used items. The service is always great. The only issue I have is when tradeing in used items you really won't get much at all. If you have any collectibles it's probably best to sale on ebay and just take the mass produced popular items in to trade. Always take store credit because the cash option is usually about 1/2 of the store credit option. read more

It's impossible to get help. I actually had to ask a customer if they were familiar with the set up of the store. I asked an employee walking by and and he contributed to walk and told me he was helping someone else. It felt extremely disrespectful. I realize I probably sound like a Karen but I waited around and even walked around looking forever for help. Just to be told "I'm helping someone else right now" Literally had one question. Where are todays comics? The new layout isn't great to navigate. Prices are high. No wonder sister company books a million is dying out. read more

Ordered a mystery box of DVD movies, box was half full and 90% of box was Asian cartoons. The other 10% was mostly old comedy with unknown to me actors. I found 2 DVDs I would watch. Box was half full of lots of bubble wrap. My first time with this store that was recommended to me. Glad this store has so many good reviews, I do not see it. read more

2nd & Charles ... I will NEVER step foot into that store again!!!! Don't go there to sell anything. You'll almost make more money giving it away. I brought in an entire tote of hardback books and two unopened DVD sets and was given $7.80. What a scam!!!! Additionally I had to present my ID TWICE, give my email, cellphone number and a FINGERPRINT for them to do business with me!!!! read more

2nd and Charles is one of my very favorite places in Birmingham. This huge store is filled with all things books, movies, games, and music. When I first started coming here, it was mostly movies and books. Now you can find everything from musical instruments and valuable books, to collectible vintage toys and records! You can bring in your old items and trade them in for either store credit or cash. They are very selective and will usually only take items in pristine condition.i took a box of books and movies up there recently and they rejected the entire load because they found a single book in the pile that had some old water damage on the inside with a small amount of mold. I totally get why they rejected them but I was pretty bummed! Be sure when you go up there you check out their free book bin in the front, you can find some great stuff in there that people have left that didn't get bought back or they simply wanted to donate. My only complaint with the store is how the books are sorted, there are fiction and nonfiction sections, and then sub categories for both. Then there are multiple display tables, endcaps, and more, making it difficult to find something specific, even though staff can look up items to see if they are in stock. All in all, this is an incredible store and it's easy to spend HOURS in here browsing. Go check it out! read more

2nd & Charles - Comic Books Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

They have a huge selection of things to buy. Me and my boyfriend like to buy board games here. The staff seems nice but I found it weird that when I came in with my boyfriend they were very chatty but when I came by myself no one would assist me or respond at the cash register. I had to ask multiple times for help when I wanted to purchase a guitar. read more

2nd and Charles is a cool place to snag up on anything cool that would appeal toward the geeks lovers. If you're a fan of comic books, videos games, pop culture, music, movies, anime and books, this is the place where you can get everything all in one trip. You literally can spend hours browsing through a collection of items that they have in stock, but make sure you bring either a bag or box since they don't have bags to put your items in unless you purchase one of there reusable bags. Once you walk in, you'll noticed two big flat screen tv in the games section were kids can play video games on. Also, for anyone that still has those old record player, you're in luck because they have plenty of cd to choose from and you can purchase a guitar for anyone that loves playing instruments. read more

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Enjoyed the wealth of mixed media from books, dvd, music and comics. During my time there I found out the store is a sub of Books A Million and wasn't surprised. As an avid collector of vinyl and couldn't find or come to pay the overrated price for the records. For a second hand shop I understand why they price the way they do but it's well above cost. I pity the fool who goes in to pay over retail for new/used LPs. Not to mention, the CD section is just a mess z no organization and it's purely by luck you can find an artist in its correct location. The dvds and books look and seem well organized so I give them that, but comics are just as bad as the CD organization. Truth be told I'll go back just to hunt but still it could be better. read more

This is one of the best second-hand retail stores I've ever been to. At 2nd & Charles you can find an ever-expanding selection of new and used books, movies, music, games, toys, accessories and pop culture merchandise. I've been coming to this particular location since it opened in Hoover 15 years-or-so ago, its main draw for me being the extensive selection of new and used books. I've also sold my used media here (old standard def DVDs and Blu-Rays). My one complaint about this place is the lack of sales associates out on the floor. The footprint of this store is gigantic, so if you're in one of its far-reaching corners and you have a question, there is almost never anyone around to help you--you basically have to schlep to the checkout counter, wait in line and then ask someone at a register. Other than that, this place is one of my favorite weekend hangouts. It's great for hours and hours of browsing among books and merchandise of all kinds. read more

Employees are rude and all seem unhappy. Also, they are quite critical of the books you are trying to sell. It's far from a welcoming or pleasant shopping experience. I've given them a few chances to improve. They haven't. I wont be back! read more

Elizabeth was so very helpful. She has a great attitude. She is awesome:-) Jon also was very pleasant. It is his first day on the job. He will be an asset to the company. Jon rocks!!! We will be back many times since there are some great employees there:-) read more

Horrifically poor customer service!! At one time they actually had quick turnaround on tradeins and gave moderately good value for them but no more. Just traded in over 100 books, offer less than $38!!!!!!! Less than 50 cents per title for mostly NEW books, what a ripoff, AND it took them 3 days to process! Not to mention their ridiculous drivers license requirement to even trade there. No sane retail business does this. NEVER AGAIN, HOPE THEY GO BANKRUPT!!!!! read more

This is BY FAR my favorite bookstore! I feel sorry for people that don't have a 2nd and Charles near them to enjoy. I only wish it was nearer to Tuscaloosa (an hour away). They have new and used books, movies, video games, vinyls, cds, and other things. They also have candy, different displays of anime, manga, tshirts, action figures, pusheen, sunglasses, Harry Potter, comic books, portable record players.. They always have a "free books" selection set up right before you enter the store. And yes, they are totally FREE! Make sure you bring a bag of some sort to put in all of your treasures when you check out because this is a bag less store! You never know what you will find in their store for sale. If you like to browse and discover interesting bargains, then this is the bookstore for you! read more

2nd & Charles - Inside of store - Comic Books Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This is a really good bookstore with a mix of used and new books, so you can grab the newest hardcover or browse around for some bargain books that won't break the bank (or both)! The used books are priced well, and let's not forget the free bin and the bargain racks out front ! I gave selection 4.5/5 because they didn't have the Screwtape Letters used or new I was looking for last visit. They also didn't have The Most Fun We Ever Had this time. A staff member helped me look for a while, he saw 4 in stock, then got another staff member involved (but didn't leave me and stayed to help), until we finally realized the book doesn't come out until week after next. D'oh!!! I will say that it can be hard to find things yourself even if they are in stock. There are also music sections including vinyl records, plenty of memorabilia and whatnots, T-shirt's, bags, pens, bookmarks, toys and soooo much more! I would expect little kids beg for the strategically placed toys however you can park them in front of one of the TVs and let them pass the time on a wii or xbox. I took books for buyback last time and out of a huge tote bag of books they weren't interested in any. And I thought I had some good ones in there. I probably won't waste my time dragging any up there anymore. But the process was easy, and they go through it while you shop so I did keep a few stars for that. In conclusion, I think they have a great mix of old and new with enough revenue bumpers to keep them in business, while keeping away from the big chain store feel as much as possible for a chain store.... I just wish they had coffee! Staff helpfulness 5/5 Selection of books 4.5/5 Selection of non book items 4/5 (no coffee) Buyback 3/5 Price of books 5/5 Still rounded up to 5 because if you take away buyback, which doesn't affect me since I no longer use it, then it's a pretty good score. Definitely recommend without hesitation, and will be back. And let's be honest, that's what counts - putting your money (and stars!) where your mouth is! read more

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It's great I loved it I went to the store just to check in a big five nights at freddy's fan and they has the 2016 Bonnie like that's wild they have a ton of other thing like book,pops,marvel'Lego and ect. I loved it and I think you will too. read more

The manager, Jenny, was atrocious. Very surly and probably clinically depressed. It wouldn't explain why the computer inventory was wrong . Not to my satisfaction. Horrible experience. Went to Barnes and Noble and had perfect experience. read more

I went to this place curious to know what they sold novelty items and books just like a Book a million but no coffee. Still nice items in there . read more

A good selection of new & used books. The organization of used books is pretty haphazard. Good prices.

These guys really have it all! Easy to go in for a minute and get lost for hours! If you are into books they have a HUGE selection of all styles (new and used). Hardbacks, paperbacks, classics, collector editions...they have them all. Video Games...got those too! From classic consoles to new gen consoles and all the games to go with them...... they have it all, again, new and used. Absolutely enormous selection to fit any of your gaming needs. Music....yep they have you covered here too! CD's and records are both featured here. Great prices on used music. Great place to find something you've been looking all over for. Also, they have a good selection of used musical instruments. Movies.....DVD, Blu Ray, and 4K ultra....again have it all with a good selection of new and used. Old...new...TV seasons...something for everyone. Probably the largest selection in town. Comics....you guessed it...new and used available again. Tons and tons of ultra long boxes to sort through on their tables (as well as under the tables). Glass cases with expensive variant and old issues. Huge selection of graphic novels are available. By the way, check behind the checkout counter........HUGE selection of older Marvel, DC and independent titles. Misc....these guys have the biggest selection of pop culture items...clothing, Star Wars, Marvel, DC, collector dolls, games. Lastly, the trade in counter...bring your older gently used items and let them put together an offer while you are looking in the store. They will offer you store credit (always the higher offer) or cash. Ok, now really the last thing....check outside on your way out for extra good deals and the FREE BINS. Large volume of items they don't take on trade get deposited here for first come first serve. Some people just deposit items here instead of trading. Can have a good variety of items at times. Just thought of one more thing (really the last thing to add)...most weekends they have a promotion. Check the front doors when you go in for the specials available....typically buy (x) amount and get (x) amount for free. Check them out...just make sure you have a little time on your hands. read more

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This is a great second-hand store. You can buy, sell or trade books, cds, records, video games, movies, and comics for really great prices. They'll offer to buy your stuff for cash or give you an even higher value for store credit. I never have a specific book in mind when I'm here. I like perusing the shelves, looking for a good worn in book that seems like a good read and I always end up finding one. They also carry a lot of new books and have a section for the commonly required books for school. Teachers could really take advantage of this place! It's a wonderful way to build up your classroom library without spending a crazy amount of money. Popular kids' titles at other stores can be around $15 and they're only 20 pages long! Here, I can find them for $2 or $3. They even have sections for leveled readers and teacher resource books. read more

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I come here a lot, and the experience varies a lot. Sometimes the selection is good, sometimes it's bad because it's a second hand store. The value also varies a lot. Some things will be $20 over priced, but sometimes it will be $20 underpriced. But the service is the worst part. We have stood at the case where they keep all the more expensive case for 10 minutes just waiting because they are so slow. That is the only bad part about here, but it still gets four stars for how good the value and selection can be, weather it's video games, manga, regular books, Legos, collectible items, or music, there is something for everyone here. Like I said earlier, it's a second hand store, but they have new and used things, so the prices vary in that category too. But since this place has been my favorite place to go for the past five years, and I've gotten a lot of good stuff here, I would say it's worth coming here. read more

Anyone else feel like 2nd and Charles is a waste of time? I've had really bad service the last 3 times I've been there,and I'm constantly hear employees complaining about customers. Today they returned 2 books to me for water damage, that I bought from them last week....No I didn't take a bath with them.... and they offered me $2 on 8 books that were in good condition. I'll think I'll just share with our free give and take library near my house. read more

I really like this store. I have been here several times and always find something new. Both the 11 year old and the 18 year old really like it. First of all, if you like books, you will love this store. A million books used and new. It can be overwhelming at times. I have found it best to come with a list of authors you really like or books you want. That way you can focus your search. There are cookbooks, kids books, preteen, and teen books. They have a huge selection of Christian fiction, devotionals, etc. as well. There are video games, board games, musical instruments, dvds, vinyl, adult coloring books. Found the kid a Dr Who mask for Halloween here. Every time I go to this store I find something to buy. It's a great store in which to kill time. You can sit and read, kids can play video games, or just browse to your hearts content. read more

Always having reasonable prices, & the used products are still in good condition. I always find time to make it to this store, because iof the good prices read more

Horrible employees they fallowed us around the store and this large women that worked there said, "can I help you", and I said, "no we are just looking around", and she proceeds to interrogate us about what we were doing? So we had enough and began to leave, and the same large women that worked there yelled some unintelligible comment as we left. Wow I will never spend any of my money there again. read more

People in other parts of the country have NO bookstores; Birmingham (Hoover) has this gem. Only Half Price Books in Dallas and other locations come close, but this store is probably 3x as large. Always busy, always friendly. Birmingham is Blessed! read more

2nd and Charles is pretty sweet. Books, graphic novels, vinyls, movies, and more. It's very easy to lose my time and/or money in this place. You can trade in your old books or movies for store credit or cash as well, which helps in funding future purchases! read more

LOVE THIS PLACE!! Used books, video games, game systems, comic books, strategy guides, vinyl records, music, etc, etc, etc!!! You can trade anything in, and shop while you wait for the trade in value or cash price! read more

The people in this store are rude and when you ask them about something you want they have literally no information for you. There was a special collectors item that I have been wanting and a store associate has been holding if for going on a month now and the people that work with them don't want to say that there time for holding the item is over and I should be able to buy it. I go in 3-4 times a week but I'm not going back now. They are OK serving you but when it comes to getting help from anyone in the store they don't treat you well because your making them work. All of the associates at the store I go to have a bad attitude and do the minimum to help you. Had to return 3 items in a row because none of them had the right parts or were broken. read more

If you have never been to a 2nd and Charles, and you are into vintage/thrift/old stuff, you should definitely check it out. While this is a chain store, and I believe is part of the Books-A-Million enterprise, it still has a local feel to it. You really never know what you may find here. The way it works, is they have a huge buyback counter, where you can come trade in your used music, movies, tv shows, games, books, etc. They accept most forms of media. (for things such as VHS, Vinyl, 8 Track, Cassette, Beta Max, Colecovision, a Kaleidoscope, Stilts, Bolo Ties, Fanny Packs, etc. I would recommend calling ahead. Most don't accept these things, but I have found some do.) You can trade in up to 6 "bins" of stuff every week or so for either cash or store credit. I had a bulk of Bolo Ties available, 6 bins worth in fact, and decided to press my luck. I was offered either slightly more than $200 in cash or over $500 in store credit. They definitely want you to use your store credit, which any businessman will tell you makes perfect sense. They buy a $15 item for $2 then sell it for $8. Chances are, you will end up buying back one of your very same items you traded in! : In reality, I felt like it was a great deal I got. I wasn't using the stuff I traded in, and I was able to use the store credit to get things I would use. They actually have some Tablets, Smart Phones, Video Game Systems, and especially all things Nook (which seems odd as Nook is a Barnes and Noble product). Of course they have a huge selection of used books, music, movies and games. So you should be fully able to trade in all your junk and come back home with new junk that you will trade in later on! The people were all friendly to me, and even helpful as 3.7 tons of Bolo ties is hard to unload from the vehicle! Definitely go check out this location, and if you have 17 shelves of DVD's taking up space, go trade them in. Everyone needs new junk! read more