This is a tiny bookstore with a warm heart. The choices are limited, nonetheless they made the…read moreright choices. I saw many books I wanted to buy ( too many to fit into my bag). The staff are wonderful. You get the community feel here. In a town like this with so many tourists it is a vital to balance community and the tourist trade. They succeed and work out the alchemy of both without losing their identity.

On an island so small, it's pretty darn impressive that they have two excellent bookstores right in…read morethe heart of Ganges. Unlike it's pre-owned counterpart, Salt Spring Books is all new novels. They have an eclectic selection with a great emphasis on Canadian writers and a really fun kids section if you have little ones (or want to be the "cool" but still educational Aunt). But perhaps my favourite part of this place is that they mix literary themed gifts in with the novels & picture books. Last time I was in, a dragon puppets from Puff The Magic Dragon was tugging on my nostalgic heart strings so strongly, I'm amazed I walked out empty handed. Bookworm or not, this place is well worth poking your head through the door while exploring the island.

Lovely place to pop in, quite popular when we visited but the wait was not too long and the staff…read morewere friendly and quick. Coffee was tasty and reasonably priced. Plenty of seating options, and a whole wall of books to read. We didn't stay very long but it was pretty cozy, i recommend this as a place to visit when in the area

This coffee shop was the highlight of our recent trip to Chemainus. The owner and her right hand…read morewere so friendly and personable that they added to our experience. We had the iced Americano and a muffin and we would go back for both everyday if we could. I wish I could try all the baked goods as I am sure they are all equally delicious. They are made from ingredients from the owners farm so are super fresh. But alas we are from Phoenix, Arizona so it will be a year before we can return. If you are nearby do stop by! You will not be disappointed, I can assure you! The books, produce and lovely flowers for sale were an added bonus.

A cozy little bookstore to browse around leisurely on a cold morning. Staff was very friendly &…read morehelpful. Introduced me to a small Vermont local artist named Beth Mueller, super cute!

Amazing books and staff, with a drop-in book club, espresso bar, fine art prints, and baked goods!…read moreAn old fashioned jewel.

Love this place, I was visiting from out of town and felt very at home here. They have a great…read moreselection of books (I prefer fantasy and history) and the man at the desk and his daughter are very friendly and know where the book your looking for is. The place has that old musty book smell that I love and makes me want to go back again and again, I looked around there for an hour and it felt that no time had passed.

What a great book shop! The piles of books stacked…read moreeverywhere makes it even more magical. It is like you stepped into an adventure! So many great old books and the proprietor and his lovely assistant knows where each and every book can be found. I was lucky enough to get three hardcover mystery books from the 1950's!

Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse isn't just a bookstore; it's the heart of Anacortes's literary and…read moresocial life, a true haven where the maritime air meets the comforting scent of old paper and fresh espresso. This isn't a sterile chain shop--it's a warm, sunshiny hub built from beautiful wood tones, welcoming you to slow down and stay awhile. What immediately strikes you is how wonderfully curated the space is. Despite being "jam-packed" with thousands of quality used and collectible books, the store manages to feel open, airy, and inviting. The selection is fantastic, especially their deep cuts in Pacific Northwest History, general fiction, and esoterica. Browsing is a delight thanks to the meticulous organization that makes finding that hidden literary gem feel like a genuine discovery. The "Coffeehouse" part of the name is equally crucial. Serving delicious, locally-sourced coffee (like Olympia Coffee Roasters beans) and boasting a pastry case filled with unique treats--the legendary rosemary sea salt rolls, figgy bars, and baked goods are must-tries--it perfectly complements the reading experience. The friendly, attentive staff, who are clearly passionate about bookselling, are always ready to offer a recommendation or assist, often going above and beyond. Whether you're looking for a quiet, bright nook to get some work done, a comfortable chair to sip a vanilla bean latte, or an engaging evening out for a poetry reading or live piano music, Pelican Bay delivers. It's a bookstore with character, clearly beloved by locals and a mandatory stop for any visitor. It's the kind of place you'll remember long after you've left Anacortes. Highly, highly recommend!

Oh my stars! This bookstore.....is simply perfect!!…read more This is honestly the cutest book store I've ever been to. Great place for pictures, affordable great quality second hand books, and oh did I mention it's also a coffee shop. I mean could it get any better? No I don't think it could. I genuinely felt so happy the moment I stepped inside this store. It's just such a beautiful space that feels cozy and inviting. After walking around a bit I went to order a coffee. And I honestly don't think I've ever met nicer baristas in my life! They were all so sweet and kind and helpful! I tried out the fig leaf latte and the autumn tea latte and both were spectacular! Great flavor and smoothness. Overall I love this bookstore and it's well worth the drive! Definitely a hidden gem! I'll be back!!

Great place lady that works there was very helpful and i was able to find what i was looking for…read moreand they also give you free hand made bagds

We love to see a bookstore thriving!! This is so much more than just a bookstore (and adjoining…read morepaper/confectionery/novelty shop). Its a community hub! I recently moved to Bellingham and Village Books (and paper dreams) actually really swayed me to move here. Its a book palace, 3 stories of well organized selection. The front facing books are well chosen, and the used books are interspersed with the new books. There are quite a few staff picks sections, all of which are super interesting and worth looking over. Three days before Christmas 2025 I was there trying to pick out a horror book for a friend of mine. Horror is not my genre (more of a fantasy and literature gal myself), so I for sure needed guidance. The shop lady spent so much time reviewing the whole horror section with me . When we couldn't find the main book we decided on me buying, she spent the time looking everywhere for it. She enlisted the help of two additional staff members. When she was needed for another task, she made sure one of the other shop ladies had me covered. I ended up ordering the book, which came in a few days and they texted me when it arrived. Easy peasy! I will never forget that experince, especially as the store was jam packed with x-mas shoppers. Village books in fairhaven is the spot! My only note is that their bookclubs could be better. The bookclubs are during the day and don't have different genre selections (they are mostly nonfiction). There is a silent reading bookclub that I might try. They could be cultivating different types of communities (ie book clubs geared towards romantasy, sci-fi, literature, etc.), but maybe that will come with time.

I really wanted to love the store. I'm long time book lover and one who worked in the book…read moreindustry for over 20 years. This store seemingly has it all; great selection of books, both knew and used, lots of old wood, and a staff that seems knowledgeable if a little bit unhappy. The last part can explain why the vibe is just off. It just doesn't feel comfortable nor welcoming, and if I had to put my finger on the cause, I would say it is likely due to management. I witnessed firsthand how the store manager ignored customers in line waiting to pay because he was on the phone. You never ignore the customers who are right in front of you. I wish the store all the best, but I'm gonna take my book shopping business elsewhere.