I've spent probably, literally hundreds of hours in the Booksmith since I moved to Boston. I've used this place as a meet-up spot, as a rainy-day outing, as a place to buy last minute gifts, and, last but not least, as a fabulous place to buy books. The used book cellar is great - large and well-organized, and welcoming. But my favorite part is the sale tables right up front - books for $5.00? Sign me up. Perfect day: book from the Booksmith; take-out lunch from one of the restaurants on Harvard St.; sit on the grass at the Devotion School, read, eat, be merry. read more

One of the best bookstores in the Northeast-- like something you'd find in New Haven on the Yale Campus. Great selection, great prices, rude and arrogant staff-- but that's expected in an independent isn't it? Best of all-- no horrible Carly Simon music blaring on the stereo like they used to have at Borders. Great selection of used books downstairs and they've even branched into e-book sales. This place took on Barnes and Noble and actually kicked 'em out of town. I like that. Great place-- right across the street from the Coolidge Corner Theater. read more

The Brookline Booksmith is like my home away from home. I work nearby, and often visit after work to relax. For those who don't know, the Booksmith is divided into two floors. The upper level contains all the new books, including a gift section with lots of amusing tchotchkes. They have four islands with discounted books too, and a lot of them are former best-sellers or classics. Downstairs, though, is where it's at. The downstairs is the used book room, which is pretty sizable and immaculately organized. There are a lot of other used bookstores that certainly have tons of used books...but the the selection is awful and nothing is labeled or organized. At the Booksmith, the selections are always top notch, especially in their comic book and fiction sections, and everything is easily accessible. The Booksmith should also get a shout out for their awesome author events. Each month, they invite both new and established writers to give talks and sign books. I've seen a bunch of my favorite writers there, like Junot Diaz, Michael Chabon, and Neal Stephenson. The Brookline Booksmith serves as a bastion of literary culture in an age where many major booksellers are on the decline. Fight the good fight! read more

Great store with everything you need, and a few things you don't. Somehow managed to spend $300 there today. eek.

This place makes me want every book ever. I want to grab a big stack of brand new hard cover books and buy them all and spend the rest of the year reading. I want to jump in a pile of matte finish paperback books, and then lay on my backside and flail my arms and legs and make book-angels. But alas, I am only a poor grad student and can only afford the $1 books on the outside cart. At least there's some diamonds in the rough there... read more

I lived in Brookline for a year and was completely obsessed with this place. Not only is the used books section downstairs AMAZING for someone as book obsessed as I am, but they let me bring my puppy- my sidekick- in with me! This place is one of the best bookshops I have ever been in. Now that I moved away, I make special trips up just to go here. read more

I wish that there was a book store like this near me, but my bank account and wife are glad that there isn't! I stopped in to kill some time while we waited to be seated at Zaftigs, and ended up walking out with a book. If I had had room in my carry-on for more, I would have walked out with a lot more. Knowledgable, friendly, and obviously bibliophile staffers; a great selection for an independent; and a charming atmosphere. What more could you possibly want? read more

I. Love. This. Bookstore. Organized alphabetically by section/topic, awesome little staff recommendation notes and a cute crafts/jewelry section in the back. Their Destination Literature end caps across the middle of the store was an awesome and interesting idea. I was tempted by a few books detailing the accounts of missionaries, journalists and other writers trekking about the Congo, South Africa, Morocco and so on. You rarely have non-fiction books set aside into categories like that... I wouldn't have read so many inside covers if it was set in some generic non-fiction section. Friendly staff, kind/interesting patrons and refreshingly organized. I'm a happy, happy bookworm. read more

great community bookstore. i really like the layout of BB and i've become totally addicted to their $4.99 book tables - the selections are decent if you need to run in grab something and hop on the train, and of course, it's a $5 book. My mum is a young adult librarian, and the YA section here is decent, it has all the popular series and some real best sellers that are worth "adult" notice. as if the $5 tables weren't enough though, downstairs is the used book section that has really recent titles mixed in with older classics. this is also where they conduct booktalks and signings - and where they store videos! support local business and eschew barnes and noble down the street in favor of brookline booksmith. read more

awesome bargain books selection! I saw quite a few more recent novels in the pile, and some other ones I would probably give a try for a few bucks. Also, the gifts section is nice -- a little bit on the pricey side, but always fun to look through. While I like the Barnes & Noble and Borders stores for their (often large) selections, I definitely enjoy thriving independent book stores for their unique collections. read more

I worked in an independent bookstore in college. So visiting places like Brookline Booksmith engenders emotions of nostalgia and visceral gratitude. If you're ever having trouble finding a gift, this is the place to go. There's literally (pun intended) something for everyone. if you're ever looking to lose yourself in imagination, history, funky facts or fiction, this is the place to go. Their size (huge for an independent bookstore), selection (classics, new releases, used books, gifts, maps, local publications, art) and superb customer service secure this store's successful status! read more

Hi my name is Ian and I'm a book addict... I can't walk past a bookstore without going inside, seriously... that said. Possibly my third favorite bookstore in the entire city. Any bookstore that offers new selection as well as used books and has a Philosophy selection as big as booksmith makes me very, very happy. The staff is also extremely helpful and cool. Excellent location as well. Seriously... if you need a book, and are heading down to Barnes and Noble.. smack yourself, turn around and walk back over to Brookline Booksmith. read more

How many other local institutions can say they had a big hand in kicking a major chain store out of their neighborhood? (Take that, Barnes and Noble!) I'm a huge bibliophile, and like many other Yelpers, the Booksmith is my favorite bookstore in the city. Yes it's a bit small and somewhat crowded, but what makes them a total winner in my book is their used book cellar (otherwise known as my Mecca. Enough said.) and their amazingly awesome events.... John Krasinski this November = probably the best thing to happen all year, no joke (but aside from seeing him, it also introduced me to the greatness of David Foster Wallace, double score). They have a great lineup with tons of big names from both inside and outside the reading world (Augusten Burroughs & Alton Brown are two recent ones that come to mind). And of course like everyone else here, I adore the staff who are not only helpful and friendly but extremely knowledgeable and passionate about books (why is this so rare nowadays?), the great unique gift section, cool weekly e-newsletter, and local pride. I try to limit my trips here because every time I walk through the door I end up spending way too much money... but I just can't stay away :x read more

Great independent bookstore. The staff have always been nice to me and I love the selection of books, especially the book cellar. I love being able to trade in books that have been collecting dust for newer ones. One thing that I have noticed though is that the technical book section is a bit small, but other than that I have no complaints! They always have events here and I have yet to go to one! It's on my to-do list. If you are in the Coolidge Corner area, do check this bookstore out! They have good bargains from time to time and their book cellar is always packed. read more

Not only is this a fun place to shop, but I FEEL GOOD about shopping here. Yay for supporting independent local businesses! They have a great selection of new books, with awesome bargain displays and staff picks. They also have an amusing selection of gifts and cards. Downstairs is the used book cellar. It can be a little hard to shift through, but the staff is very helpful and knowledgeable about what they have and where to find it. Booksmith often has book signings, past authors have included Barbara Walters and John Krasinki , although I'm pretty sure he hasn't written a book. read more

I've loved this place since I was a child- it was always a highlight of visiting the Boston area! They have so many wonderful things, a gorgeous space, and an adorable atmosphere. read more

I miss Brookline because of this bookstore. Most of my books were purchased here as they have such a great used book selection and even cheap deals on new. The staff is super friendly and have a great must read selection as well. Downstairs they have a wide selection of movie rentals and a spot for meet-ups. (I've knitted with granny's here before) I rock my I Love Brookline Booksmith pin with honor. read more

Most people I know love this bookstore, but I am not terribly impressed. They don't have much on sale often and I find it's kind of dirty and the aisles get crowded easily. I think primarily I am just fixated on the dirt. read more

I love book stores but this one is extra fabulous and so well organized! I spent well over an hour wandering through each section in turn. The books are arranged very well and the other displays are so attractive making this store and thorough pleasure to wander through for people into books or even just looking for that perfect and unique gift for a friend. read more

100+ reviews, what else can I say about this place? I luv it. They have an awesome selection, a bargain section (where I picked up a $5 book on how to be like a French woman and learned how I need to spend most of my money on skin care products and lingerie and not be good friends with French women because they're competitive and trying to sleep with your boyfriends or husbands), and lots of cool & kitschy gifts. I like their employee reading suggestions. My only problem is that there aren't a lot of places to sit comfortably (the random chairs are quite hard). My favorite part is how they constantly have awesome speakers coming through in the evenings. Lots of authors visit to do readings and promote their new books. When I lived in Brookline, I remember John Hodgman (Daily Show, Mac/PC ads) came. When bigger people like Nora Ephron and Annie Annie Leibovitz came, they move the talks to the indie theater and charge $2. read more

I got to meet (okay stare at breathlessly) Barbara Walters here!!! They had THE Barbara Walters here! This place is great because they have all types of authors here signing/promoting their books. And most importantly the books! They have a well rounded selection of books here. I seem to discover more authors going to a small bookstore compared to a big chain and this place offers all types of genres. You cant loose here because they have two floors of books... top floor are the new books and the lower floor is for used books. The staff is pretty good here too. Cant seem to remember outstanding or horrible service here- just passionate book folks. read more

Brookline Booksmith is just about the best bookstore in the Boston area. Along with those in-demand bestsellers they have a great and unique collection of local authors, obscure titles, and hard-to-find collections. Not only is the book selection fantastic, but they also have an adorable gifts section where you can again find interesting things made by local artisans, fun gag gifts, original cards, and other various sundries. But wait...there's more!!! They have an ecclectic blend of local and national magazines, but you won't find Cosmo or Mademoiselle stuck in there...oh no...but you'll find some of the most random titles imaginable. In additon to all this wonderous-ness - the staff is friendly, educated, and they READ. What a concept. read more

I love to support my local shops and the Brookline Booksmith makes it oh so easy to do so. In addition to a great selection of new books, their used section downstairs is fantastic. I also love that I can always find a fun little toy or desk item in their gift area. On a regular basis great authors come for readings and signings. Oh, and I can't forget to mention...the staff! They are fantastic and if you check out the website you can get some great reading recommendations from them. read more

Love the Booksmith! First of all, it's not Borders or B&N. Second, they've also got lots of fun gifty stuff and cards. I haven't spent a ton of time here because I'm not in Coolidge Corner all that often, but I love going here when I am in the area. I really can't say much more than what's already been said. They're a great independent bookseller. Great displays, fun gifts, and a local business. What more can you ask for? read more

A neighborhood gem. Check out the used book cellar in the basement, or browse their new book displays and magazines upstairs. They regularly host author events, so keep an eye out for your favorites. They don't have a huge selection of books (it's not as large as the Harvard bookstore), but what they have is very good. It's just a fun store to browse for an hour (or two!). They also have a good selection of greeting cards and postcards. And of course, they have a large selection of gifts: jewelry, bags, fun things to spruce up the home and office, and wrapping paper. I've picked up a pickle ornament for my corny office holiday gift exchange, and candles and decorative jewelry dishes for myself. There's also a small selection of Boston themed gifts if you need to pick up a souvenir for someone or want a housewarming gift for someone new to town. Recommended! read more

Such a big bookstore for being a discount shop! Brookline Booksmith had been recommended to me by a friend who adores the place. I expected it to be a tiny place, but when I walked in I was surprised at the vastness of the place! What you can find at a Barnes and Noble, you can find here for cheaper: calendars, notebooks, study guides, reading accessories, totes, and... of course... books! The only thing not giving it a fifth star is that the prices weren't as low as I'd hoped. I still ended up spending $11 on a Chinese-English dictionary. But... I'll be back! I still need to check out their basement of goodies! read more

A diamond in Brookline. I am glad there is this wonderful bookstore in our neighborhood. One can find new or used books. It feels great to be inside and browse books. Every time I pass by I cannot resist. read more

The Brookline Booksmith has got to be the best bookstore out there. It's nestled in Coolidge Corner- a great location. It has an entire basement full of gently used books for sale for half the original price, or more, okay or sometimes maybe less. In this basement there are regular book readings by authors, knitting clubs, and other wonderful get togethers. Upstairs is full of books- whatever kind you'd like. There's also an entire section devoted to cute little toys. Purses, scarves, jewerly, magnets, novelty toys, funny books, this place has everything. In the back there is a happy little children's area where kids can snuggle up to an adult sized teddy bear and read. The charm and the merchandise at the Brookline Booksmith really make it a place you can't afford to miss. read more

This bookstore is great! I work in Brookline and I always stroll in and find a bunch of stuff I want to buy...their sale books are great deals and they always carry offbeat, fun stuff for every type of reader...everything is organized and the staff are not overbearing... my fave part is the card/gift section in the back...I always find great fun lil gift things there...last week I bought chinese new year items for my parents and they loved it! They swore I got it at an asian store! NO ONE ever makes a chinese new year display and actually know what they are doing...hehe...so PROPS! read more

Brookline Booksmith is awesome. They have a nice selection of new books, bargain books, used books, journals, office toys, gifts, knicknacks, cards, etc. While you won't find the large selection of books that are in Barnes & Noble or Borders, it's still a decent amount. The downstairs (near the entrance) is full of used books that are actually organized. I -always- spend quite a bit of time in there each time I visit. The employees are okay. I've never actually had any speak to me... and I don't know if that's a good thing or bad thing. The younger indie staff members come off a little pretentious when you hear them talk amongst themselves. The only reason why I don't go there that often is because of how busy the sidewalks are (with large families) in Coolidge Corner nowadays. read more

I know I can get books cheaper on Amazon.com, but this is still my favorite bookstore. I could spend hours in here and feel like I am at least supporting the local independent book store. But I wish I could have will power and not feel compelled to buy at least one book here each time I visit! Not only do they supply books for classes at Brookline Adult Ed., but this place also has the following: 1. Great bargain basement 2. Cute gift area with fun knickknacks 3. Teacher discounts! 4. Treats for dogs - yay, you can bring your dog! 5. Friendly staff (then again, they usually don't bother me but the cashiers are always nice) 6. Late hours 7. Cool sections of books . . . can't remember any of them right now, but for example there is a whole section of pet training books read more

The Booksmith defines "classic bookstore." This is a key shop in Coolidge Corner. Awesome selection - including tons of local Boston-type books and tons of great gifts for birthdays/holidays. Old school floors creak when you walk around. That's how you know it's awesome. read more

Best. Bookstore. Ever. I wish I was closer. I would be there everyday like I once was. I still try to get there as often as possible. I get cravings. read more

I have lived in the vicinity for a couple of years but only discovered the bookstore a while back. Don't ask why but I was a prey to my school bookstore and amazon for a long long time. BB introduced me onto the world of used books, and now I'm stuck on it forever. Conveniently located in Coolidge Corner, it is an independent bookstore. The basement is where they keep the used books and movies. Everything is sorted out so there's no confusion. Sometimes the upstairs counter will let you know if they have a specific book you're looking for (used). I wouldn't really buy new books from here since I'm still addicted to amazon's cheap prices/discounts. However, I think its amazing for what it does. They have really cool events and book signings. One of my favorite authors is visiting soon so I can't wait for that! Oh, the decor and overall look inside is comfortable and you can take your time in the casual environment to browse as you want. The people that work there are helpful and very friendly too. read more

Do we really need another review for the Booksmith? Heck yes. You may already know about my passion for cooking. Yes, I have passion for cooking, but I am not married to cooking. Books are another passion of mine. Books that can carry my mind away while my body is stuck, like a useless husk on the T. Books about cooking... What I love most about a bookstore is the discovery, the hunt. Like when I look for a good hot sauce, I love to discover an unexpected book, a gem waiting for me to read. It could be something serious, or a funny book, or something cool. The discovery is the best part. The Booksmith makes it so easy to find gems. And great staff too. Helpful but unobtrusive, like hey, just to let you know, I can help you if you want but I'm gonna leave you alone. More of the greatness that is Coolidge Corner. Time enough at last. read more

I have been a big fan of the Brookline Booksmith since it opened. I must say I was disappointed the night of Jerry Remy's visit that there were no more books of his available to buy when I came in an hour early. I intended to buy six books and there were none left. I have visited many independent stores when a special author is signing/giving a speech, and there are always a plethora of books to buy. I was told people called and reserved books since early in the morning. Even so, there should have been more than enough books to satisfy every client. Without a book, I could not get it signed or see Jerry Remy. He has been a family favorite since he came to Boston. My husband and I were very disappointed! We lost out, and so did Jerry Remy... read more

I've never been crazy about this place for various reasons. I went here because I wanted to support the local bookstore. The books felt very overpriced. I've never had good luck with getting help from employees. I've had better luck with the Barnes and Noble down the street, which I now frequent instead. I feel ignored by the employees when I try to approach them and, when I do get help, I feel like they treat me as more of a burden than anything. I went to an event where they had Barbara Walters signing her book. They forced everyone to buy the book from their store. If you had her book, but no receipt, you weren't allowed to get the book signed. The employees were incredibly rude to everyone in line. They were constantly yelling at people (when an "excuse me miss/sir, please ...." would have been sufficient). You could tell Barbara was irritated and, I think, slightly embarassed since it was all reflecting badly on her. Overall, I've continued to have bad experiences. I may just be unlucky and going in when the employees aren't at their best, but I don't plan on going back anytime soon. read more

You would think that the next door Barnes and Noble would have a larger selection, and I believe they do, but it's almost as if Booksmith has all the gems I'm looking for. Oh...like all of Gail Tsukiyama's books. But I have to say that is probably more a stroke of chance given my tastes than a real assessment of the selection. On the other hand, nothing beats the bargain books. 5 bucks or so each, and many of them are quite well known novels. It's definitely not as easy to waste away an afternoon here as it is at Barnes and Noble because of their roominess, but I always gander around the bargain area when I pass this store by. read more

I made a quick stop in here to pick up my tickets for the America's Test Kitchen Event...what a fun store. From Christmas cards to the latest and greatest book titles there is a lot crammed into this place. I didn't spend too much time so I will have to make a return trip. One item that caught my eye..."Porn for Women" which is actually pictures of men vacuuming, cooking, taking care of the baby...great idea! Parking can be tough, though the C line is right there! read more

Yay for the Booksmith! Over the past year, I've attended several of their author readings/signings, including ones with Zadie Smith and Irvine Welsh. They have a great selection, a lovely creaky floor, and a community feel. Don't forget to check out the Cinemasmith and the Used Book center downstairs, and the gift shop area upstairs that has kitchy jewelry and fun little mugs and other stuff. This is a BookSense store, so you should be able to use gift cards here. Sign up for their emails to get fun weekly updates, too! read more