CHANGING HANDS BOOKSTORE · YELP ASSISTANT
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I usually visit the Tempe location, but recently found myself near the Phoenix store and decided to stop in. I'm happy to report that it did not disappoint! Like its Tempe counterpart, this store has a fantastic selection and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to spend far more time browsing than planned. I especially loved the poetry section, which was thoughtfully curated and offered a wonderful variety of titles. Beyond the books, there's an eclectic mix of gifts and unique items that make browsing even more enjoyable. The coffee/bar is also a nice touch and adds to the overall experience. Whether you're searching for your next great read, shopping for a gift, or simply looking for a relaxing place to wander, this location is definitely worth a visit.
What an absolutely lovely bookstore. But they don't just sell books. They have great gift ideas, placed all throughout the store. It's a nice size, clean store filled with merchandise. But it's all organized. I was drawn to the spiritual gift section and Buddhas near the front of the store. The employees are friendly and helpful. Parking: Plenty of free shared parking.
Changing Hands combines everything I love in one place: a workspace + bookstore + bar + community event center! For the past year, I've been telling my friends and family to go to Changing Hands, insisting that my coworkers and I meet here rather than at a coffee shop to get work done. Parking is easy too (sometimes they have valet though, which confuses me lol) This is a great inclusive space that works to bring people together based on interest -- one time, I was getting work done in their working area, but I had to move and sit at the First Draft bar because they were prepping the work area to host a poetry night. I got to do work while people read their poetry aloud (as an arts lover, it was beautiful seeing people feel comfortable and vulnerable with their community, so touching)! They have a bulletin board near the back too where they staple up community events and have printed local newspapers (awesome for people who like to venture). I also love books, and their selection is awesome, everything is easy to find. I bought my friend a journal from here and she loves it (I might just have to get myself one now). If you like to buy books, make sure to get that bonus card and fill out the 10 squares so you can get a discount! You can trade in books too for some store credit.
This is such a cool bookstore with a very wide selection, friendly service and warm ambiance. Highly recommend, especially the value of the books. They have lots of sale items and books too. I got the Sun Also Rises for $6 (steal)! Anyways!! Very cool and unique. Go check it out!
I absolutely love Changing Hands Bookstore, especially the Phoenix location because they also have the First Draft Book Bar, so when I'm attending a book event, my husband can tag along and have a drink while I'm living my best life! I love that they carry a big selection of indie author books, and the service is always top-notch! They also offer a ton of other gift-like items. Definitely stop in if you are a book lover. You won't be disappointed!
While in Phoenix AZ we stopped into this fabulous bookstore! What a BRILLIANT idea to have a bar/cafe attached to the bookstore. First draft where you can get some light bites named after books ....Horton hears a hummus, Moby Dick sandwich (tuna melt) you get the idea! Sit & sip on wine, beers, cider or NA drinks. The book store has a great selection of new and used books, as well as novelty gifts. It's not just a bookstore it's a fun experience! Such a unique spot that I wish we had in my city!
Oh my where do I start, shame on me for all those years that I spent @ that we won't say the name of the chain bookstore SHHHHH! So no longer because thanks to my fellow Yelpers I found Changing Hands & all I can say is OMG! We came here after breakfast, different location...but FYI next time we will be doing The Toasted Owl before hand ;-) As soon as you walk in the first time you're just in awe, what an amazing bookstore yet so much more! You don't even know where to start... so being that tomorrow is my Aunts birthday & there's a huge selection of cards, bam...my hubby finds one with bumble bees, well my Aunt has a thing with bees therefore I must get it!!! This is a very good start, then a couple aisles over there's a children's section with so many good quality toys, wooden Melissa & Doug, etc. our son chose a kaleidoscope ... very good quality made out of metal not card board! After about an hour or so we were only able to go through the one half of the store being that our son was getting restless with his autism & the store was starting to get crowded on a Sunday late morning @ 11:30 am so we decided to head towards the check out area. Well once you get the check out area you might as well give yourself another 30 minutes ... lol! They had a glass case with some handmade beaded bracelets & such, just so many more little goodies to browse through to buy! We had so much fun discovering this store & all they have to offer....trust me, you will also plus you'll be supporting your local businesses!
What a great bookstore! I took my daughter for the Jennifer Lynne Barnes event and book signing. We had never been to this bookstore and can't believe how cool it was! They sell new and used books, have fun merchandise for sale, has a large event space in the back, and has a bar called the "First Draft" where you can order beer, wine, coffee, tea, and small bites. Everyone was very friendly. Such a great place, looking forward to going back.
Changing Hands is one of the premier independent bookstores in the AZ area. This spot is located in a plaza with a good amount of parking spots. To get here, they are located in between two eateries: The Toasted Owl and Tesota. Inside, they have a very spacious store with a superb selection of different books and even a draft bar! You can definitely spend a couple hours here just perusing everything they have. All of the staff here are very friendly and welcoming. Prices are very reasonable and they have a book that can suit anyone's reading palette. Come stop by to support and grab a book!
"It's always better to have too much to read than not enough." ― Ann Patchett Changing Hands is Arizona's leading independent bookstore, offering new and used books, unique gifts, toys, and more than 300 author events every year since 1974. I love books. I've even written two books (link in my bio)! As for Changing Hands, they're an amazing bookstore that often hosts book signings and other fun events. On top of books, they also sell some really cool items. With the holidays coming up, you can find some fun and unique items here from oracle cards to incense holders, knit cardigans to crystal sun catchers. Want some cool earrings? Need some holiday ornaments? Come here! You'll truly find some interesting finds for everyone on your shopping list. Support independent; support local!
Books? Coffee? Alcohol? Yes!!!! This place is absolutely perfect perfection. I Popped in here after seeing a few posts and I cannot wait to go back. They have a great book selection (loved the book summaries), Sticker selection, and other knickknacks/odds and ends that are book related. Parking was a little hectic/limited.
15 days ago
I can't think of a better bookstore than Changing Hands (both Phoenix and Tempe). This location has a different layout than Tempe and I love that they're both uniquely beautiful. There are so many trinkets and gifts available to sort through. They have a best seller section right at the front which makes it easy to navigate books that are newer as well. The entire store is organized and nothing is hard to find. The staff are mostly behind the register. It's so cool that they're attached to a bar and there's a space behind where you can stay and study/drink. read more
2 months ago
While in Phoenix, I was on the hunt for postcards, and after going to one store that didn't have any, they suggested we try Changing Hands. Jackpot--they had exactly what I was looking for! First, I have to mention the book bar inside, First Draft. We didn't actually get a chance to go in, but I absolutely love the convenience of having a bookshop and bar together. And I especially love a good play on words, so if I'd had more time and hadn't had my teenager with me, I definitely would have checked it out! Anyway, I walked in and cut right to the chase, asking an employee where I could find the postcards. They pointed me in the right direction, and I found them immediately. We were on a bit of a time crunch, so I didn't get the chance to explore EVERYTHING they had, but I easily could have spent quite a while browsing the books, trinkets, gifts, and all the other fun things throughout the store. Then something caught my eye that I was SO excited about--the mini print vending machine! I had seen these on TikTok before, including ones in San Francisco, so finding one here was a really pleasant surprise. I dug around in my purse and managed to come up with enough quarters to get two prints. I absolutely loved the prints, and they made such a fun and affordable souvenir to bring home. It was one of those unexpected little finds that made the stop even better. My only complaint is that I didn't have more time to explore. I would have loved to browse the store longer and grab a drink at First Draft. Changing Hands is definitely a little gem in the Phoenix area, and I'm glad another store pointed me in their direction! read more
3 months ago
I usually visit the Tempe location, but recently found myself near the Phoenix store and decided to stop in. I'm happy to report that it did not disappoint! Like its Tempe counterpart, this store has a fantastic selection and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to spend far more time browsing than planned. I especially loved the poetry section, which was thoughtfully curated and offered a wonderful variety of titles. Beyond the books, there's an eclectic mix of gifts and unique items that make browsing even more enjoyable. The coffee/bar is also a nice touch and adds to the overall experience. Whether you're searching for your next great read, shopping for a gift, or simply looking for a relaxing place to wander, this location is definitely worth a visit. read more
What an absolutely lovely bookstore. But they don't just sell books. They have great gift ideas, placed all throughout the store. It's a nice size, clean store filled with merchandise. But it's all organized. I was drawn to the spiritual gift section and Buddhas near the front of the store. The employees are friendly and helpful. Parking: Plenty of free shared parking. read more
Changing Hands combines everything I love in one place: a workspace + bookstore + bar + community event center! For the past year, I've been telling my friends and family to go to Changing Hands, insisting that my coworkers and I meet here rather than at a coffee shop to get work done. Parking is easy too (sometimes they have valet though, which confuses me lol) This is a great inclusive space that works to bring people together based on interest -- one time, I was getting work done in their working area, but I had to move and sit at the First Draft bar because they were prepping the work area to host a poetry night. I got to do work while people read their poetry aloud (as an arts lover, it was beautiful seeing people feel comfortable and vulnerable with their community, so touching)! They have a bulletin board near the back too where they staple up community events and have printed local newspapers (awesome for people who like to venture). I also love books, and their selection is awesome, everything is easy to find. I bought my friend a journal from here and she loves it (I might just have to get myself one now). If you like to buy books, make sure to get that bonus card and fill out the 10 squares so you can get a discount! You can trade in books too for some store credit. read more
This is such a cool bookstore with a very wide selection, friendly service and warm ambiance. Highly recommend, especially the value of the books. They have lots of sale items and books too. I got the Sun Also Rises for $6 (steal)! Anyways!! Very cool and unique. Go check it out! read more
10 months ago
2 months ago
10 months ago
I absolutely love Changing Hands Bookstore, especially the Phoenix location because they also have the First Draft Book Bar, so when I'm attending a book event, my husband can tag along and have a drink while I'm living my best life! I love that they carry a big selection of indie author books, and the service is always top-notch! They also offer a ton of other gift-like items. Definitely stop in if you are a book lover. You won't be disappointed! read more
While in Phoenix AZ we stopped into this fabulous bookstore! What a BRILLIANT idea to have a bar/cafe attached to the bookstore. First draft where you can get some light bites named after books ....Horton hears a hummus, Moby Dick sandwich (tuna melt) you get the idea! Sit & sip on wine, beers, cider or NA drinks. The book store has a great selection of new and used books, as well as novelty gifts. It's not just a bookstore it's a fun experience! Such a unique spot that I wish we had in my city! read more
1 year ago
Oh my where do I start, shame on me for all those years that I spent @ that we won't say the name of the chain bookstore SHHHHH! So no longer because thanks to my fellow Yelpers I found Changing Hands & all I can say is OMG! We came here after breakfast, different location...but FYI next time we will be doing The Toasted Owl before hand ;-) As soon as you walk in the first time you're just in awe, what an amazing bookstore yet so much more! You don't even know where to start... so being that tomorrow is my Aunts birthday & there's a huge selection of cards, bam...my hubby finds one with bumble bees, well my Aunt has a thing with bees therefore I must get it!!! This is a very good start, then a couple aisles over there's a children's section with so many good quality toys, wooden Melissa & Doug, etc. our son chose a kaleidoscope ... very good quality made out of metal not card board! After about an hour or so we were only able to go through the one half of the store being that our son was getting restless with his autism & the store was starting to get crowded on a Sunday late morning @ 11:30 am so we decided to head towards the check out area. Well once you get the check out area you might as well give yourself another 30 minutes ... lol! They had a glass case with some handmade beaded bracelets & such, just so many more little goodies to browse through to buy! We had so much fun discovering this store & all they have to offer....trust me, you will also plus you'll be supporting your local businesses! read more
What a great bookstore! I took my daughter for the Jennifer Lynne Barnes event and book signing. We had never been to this bookstore and can't believe how cool it was! They sell new and used books, have fun merchandise for sale, has a large event space in the back, and has a bar called the "First Draft" where you can order beer, wine, coffee, tea, and small bites. Everyone was very friendly. Such a great place, looking forward to going back. read more
Changing Hands is one of the premier independent bookstores in the AZ area. This spot is located in a plaza with a good amount of parking spots. To get here, they are located in between two eateries: The Toasted Owl and Tesota. Inside, they have a very spacious store with a superb selection of different books and even a draft bar! You can definitely spend a couple hours here just perusing everything they have. All of the staff here are very friendly and welcoming. Prices are very reasonable and they have a book that can suit anyone's reading palette. Come stop by to support and grab a book! read more
3 months ago
"It's always better to have too much to read than not enough." ― Ann Patchett Changing Hands is Arizona's leading independent bookstore, offering new and used books, unique gifts, toys, and more than 300 author events every year since 1974. I love books. I've even written two books (link in my bio)! As for Changing Hands, they're an amazing bookstore that often hosts book signings and other fun events. On top of books, they also sell some really cool items. With the holidays coming up, you can find some fun and unique items here from oracle cards to incense holders, knit cardigans to crystal sun catchers. Want some cool earrings? Need some holiday ornaments? Come here! You'll truly find some interesting finds for everyone on your shopping list. Support independent; support local! read more
2 months ago
1 year ago
Books? Coffee? Alcohol? Yes!!!! This place is absolutely perfect perfection. I Popped in here after seeing a few posts and I cannot wait to go back. They have a great book selection (loved the book summaries), Sticker selection, and other knickknacks/odds and ends that are book related. Parking was a little hectic/limited. read more
This is a really cool, independent bookstore that also has a bar inside and tons of seating! They host a bunch of different events too, but I haven't gone to any yet. There's a great selection of reasonably priced new and used books, as well as some other random items. I've gotten a few small games from here that I really liked. read more
First Visit First Impressions This bookstore has the best selection of artsy books and cookbooks. I love it. They even carry Seattle Chocolates about 6-8 varieties. Friendly staff. They got a bar next door. This was a recommendation from the a staff member from Nomad's in Uptown Plaza which is clothing store and gifts. This is the kind of bookstore that you can get lost in different kinds of cool books. Hard to find cookbooks are here. This is a must visit for the bookworm snob! read more
I finally made it! I've been wanting to go to this location for a while, but I live closer to the Tempe location, so I go there a lot more. However, after this visit, I am considering meeting my friends here! This would be the half way point between me and them! It's more compacted than Tempe, but it's super organized! The lighting was good. They also have a book bar in there perfect for book clubs, chess, homework, and card games. I will absolutely go back again. read more
2 years ago
Went to Changing Hands bookstore on a rainy day and fell IN LOVE with the ambiance! They have a wide selection of reads to choose from, and they also have tons of affordable and durable trinkets for you to take home! I will definitely be visiting again to pick out one of their gorgeous wind chimes read more
This is my go to bookstore. It's nice to shop local and see local authors and events featured. There are book clubs, things for kids, and a lot of book paraphernalia/tchotchkes that make great gifts. They provide a lot of recommendations, making browsing a lot of fun. Their loyalty punch card rewards you for shopping there with money off, which means their prices are on par with larger national corporations. Plus, the fantastic vibes I get every time I step inside are unmatched-- online shopping can't compare. If they ever don't have what I'm looking for, I order through them and pick it up later. I also enjoy grabbing a drink and cookie at the First Draft Book Bar. There's so many reasons to keep coming back! read more
4 months ago
7 months ago
3 months ago
8 months ago
Book lovers will love this store! With plenty of parking, it's a restaurant, bar, and cafe inside a bookstore with organized sections like fiction, business, and travel. You could easily browse for an hour or so. The largest section is fiction. As a travel writer, I always find a bookstore's travel section. It's very small compared to other stores. read more
Wonderful book store that I visit every time I'm in town. Great selection of genres and knick knacks. New titles and recommendations all reasonably priced. Have even found a few nice signed books on some visits. And then you can enjoy your reading selection in the First Draft book bar with is inside. The service is seamless and knowledgeable of where things can be found. I usually Uber there so can't speak to the wider parking options, but there is a small parking lot outside the entrance that is shared with a restaurant. I adore this place! read more
I finally got the opportunity to visit Changing Hands Bookstore a couple months again and what a great store! I loved the way the genres were organized and set up through the store. The bookstore felt so welcoming and bright. I love that they have a coffee/wine bar with some seating. It has a great community feel and was a great place to just hang out with a coffee and read. It wasn't very busy, but no one offered help or asked if I needed any assistance. I would still recommend and would go back again. read more
1 year ago
I love Changing Hands! My parents used to take me to the original one on Mill Avenue in the 70s. I am a big supporter of local bookstores. It is a great place to look for books and different. Cute items as gifts. I love that they have like a coffee wine bar right attached. read more
5 months ago
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More info about Changing Hands Bookstore
300 W Camelback Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Directions
(602) 274-0067
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.changinghands.com
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From the Business
Ask the Community - Changing Hands Bookstore
Do you buy used books?
We don’t buy but we do trade. https://www.changinghands.com/page/usedbooks
Do they offer book binding services (i.e. Coil Bind)?
Hi Matthew, Changing Hands does not offer bookbinding services. In a Google search I found several…
Review Highlights - Changing Hands Bookstore
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