Definitely a place to go! These days, independent bookstores are hard to find. Coupled it with a cafe and wine bar, this place is satisfies the avid reader and writer. To top it off, there's ample space to meet friends and a fireplace to warm a chilled body in the short AZ winter. If you haven't come for visit, highly recommend a visit. Try alloying at least an hour to peruse and have coffee. read more

We were in the Phoenix area and decided to settle into cozy place for the night to explore and grab a bite. We absolutely loved that Changing Hands had a bar - First Draft Book Bar - right smack in the middle of the bookstore and better yet, it had a large common room complete with fireplace for customers to enjoy their books and food. We had two sandwiches to share - a Moby Dick, which was basically a tuna salad melt on Noble bread and a Great Gatsby, which had salami, some greens and cheese on Noble bread plus kettle cooked chips and fruit on the side. I have to say, that tuna melt was delicious. It was moist and flavorful, unlike the traditional mayonnaise overloaded melts I've had in the past. We were full but not stuffed which was great because the rest of the store had so much to offer. I wouldn't have wanted to do it in a food coma induced state. The bookstore was not huge but had a neat selection of fun books that doubled to serve as entertaining gifts! Best sellers were introduced with quick summary note cards plastered by them on shelves and a good number of them also had author signatures. This little touch reminded me of Powell's Bookstore in Portland which tops my list of favorite bookstores! Little gifts, trinkets, stationary, decorative plants and candles were scattered all over the store. There was a seating area by the entrance and what looked like a small play area for kids too. Beyond that, they appear to host multiple live author events which allow for community growth and enable avid like-minded readers to get together. While my stay in Phoenix is only temporary, I would love to check this store out a few more times and drop by the Tempe location as well. It's a fun and fulfilling way to take a break from routine and take a step back! read more

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One of my favorite spots by far in the Phoenix area! This is an awesome, centrally located, local bookstore with an extensive gift shop. It's such a sweet place to go to get gifts and browse their extensive collection of books! Not sure where to start or what to choose? The staff picks are a good spot. Each display is also crafted to help expose readers to new, diverse and popular reads. Don't see it in stock? Just ask them and they will order it for you! During the pandemic, I utilized their website and their phone ordering system. Each time I called, they were helpful and attentive. When I finally got to visit again in person, they got my stamps for me on my frequent buyer card! You can also support Changing hands through Libro.fm if you prefer audiobooks. They even have options to sell back books and get trade in credit. Plus, they have a bar and coffee shop aptly named First Draft, inside the bookstore. What more you'll could a bibliophile want?! This Changing Hands has a great workspace with tables to post up at for meetings, get togethers or independent work. It's easy to get lost in the stacks here and such a wonderful way to pass a Saturday! Happy reading! read more

Ambience is wonderful when fireplace is lit. Hot tea from book bar was perfect temp. Beautiful gifts for sale. I could spend all day here

Changing Hands is the PERFECT store to check out if you're in search of a gift for someone. They have a very organized wide array of books, puzzles and games for all ages, kitchen accessories, soaps, toys, wallets, and more. This is always my first stop if I'm looking for a birthday card - they have a large assortment, and certainly ones that you won't find at your local supermarket. They also regularly host events for book clubs, author meet and greets, storytelling, and more! The coolest part about this location is that you can grab a coffee or a beer from First Draft inside the store. They have an excelled selection of craft beer, both bottled and on draft - and even do growler refills! It's quiet enough to bring your laptop and do some work, but lively enough to meet a friend to catch up without it being too quiet. read more

What else needs to be said about this amazing piece! Staff always around if you need any help. And always a clean place. I live very close so I'm very lucky to have a place to find a good book or to get out the house and read here and have a drink! read more

Super cute bookstore with indoor and outdoor bars! Great drinks and free wifi if you need to get some work done! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

All the Changing Hands Bookstore locations are laid back and nice, by this Camelback location has an actual bar inside! I mean a bar inside a bookstore is a brilliant idea! I always like visiting these bookstores and perusing the aisles. It's such a nice change from the large typical Barnes & Noble experience. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Changing Hands was introduced to me by one of my college professors several years ago. We visited as a class to analyze trends in YA fiction book covers. Ever since then, Changing Hands has been my go to local bookseller. They are so welcoming and friendly. The vibe of the store is immaculate and there's always a new book I spot that I didn't even think I'd want to get. They also have a great children's section and it is very welcoming to families. They also support a lot of important local causes that I greatly appreciate. They are a great boon to the community. read more

Favorite bookstore. Great selection, helpful staff, and a nice atmosphere. Great for a relaxing afternoon of reading.

Check out Zia records, look it up!! They have books, dvd's, blu-rays, vintage records, tapes, everything!!! For a huge discounted price!!!! Also collector's items!!!! Changing Hands is a big waste of time! If you are a book lover, go to ZIA! Save your money from this overpriced disgrace of a bookstore. read more

I discovered Changing Hands on Sunday and came back on Tuesday to read one of the books I purchased. I love how curated it is while still offering tons of discoveries. I cozied up by the fireplace at the book bar with sparkling rose and finished my book in a few hours. I was so comfortable I didn't want to leave! This is hands down the best bookstore I've been to in the Valley. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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This store has a wonderful selection of books, puzzles, and small gifts. I could spend hours just perusing the shelves! Then when you make your selection you can pop over to the bar for coffee or a beer. I come to Phoenix often for work and I'll definitely be coming back! read more

My review is way overdue. I am a lover of books and make it a point to visit local bookstores anytime I travel to a new city within the US or abroad. I was in the area for about six weeks and this was my favorite bookstore. It's the kind of bookstore you can spend an entire day in. Not only does it have a great CURATED selection of books. It also has a great selection of paper gifts and a tasty cafe. There is also ample parking (but I am visiting from LA so that may be relative.) Highly recommend visiting and supporting this gem. Visited twice during my stay and will be back next time I am in town. read more

My favorite bookstore! Full of great finds! Love the staff. I've been coming to Changing Hands for 20 years, starting at their original location in Tempe. read more

absolutely love this place every time i come in for a visit. it's perfect to find a good next read, or a fun gift or card for a friend! the staff is always so friendly too :) such a fun place to stop in and check out! there is also a coffee bar and a bar inside read more

I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! the service is amazing and i love the book selections. my to go place after schol

I love you Changing Hands. My admiration began way back in Tempe over 20 years ago. I love browsing through the aisles and looking at the staff picks. They always have great recommendations. I also love the people that work there. They are extremely helpful and always up for chatting about books or other hot topics. I have found many a gift there as well. They always have cute little trinkets, funny journals, unique jewelry and wind chimes. There are fun spots to sit and briefly skim through books. Now they sponsor the Storytellers events as well. Once a month brave new voices get up and tell a story to whatever theme has been pre-selected. I could go on and on but you really should stop in and try it out for yourself. read more

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Wonderful book store!!! Great selection of anything and everything for anyone. I especially loved the various goodies and trinkets. I will definitely return on my next visit. Coffee and booze in one location plus reading material = RADNESS read more

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I can't top Karen W.'s review of this place so I will just say its worth visiting regardless of where in the Valley that you live. I was overwhelmed due to the amount of stuff in here; but in a good way. Books, candles, soaps, cooking supplies, toys, games, stationary, and a bar. Checks all of the boxes. read more

Because of the amazing humans that work there. Nice and easy atmosphere. Great book selection. Coffee, drinks and munchies.

Provender: books, new and used. Friendly staff. Gorgeous, gorgeous cashier. Sweet lawd she was cute! Prices: reasonable. Parking: ample, there's a dedicated lot that wraps around the building. People: adults and kiddos. Perks: there's an indoor bar inside and outdoor eating area adjacent to the bookstore. read more

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Changing Hands is the type of Book Store that I could "Call Home" since I just love to read the blogs and covers of all the new novels and research some of the Icon's of the Literary World. I will visit Changing Hands Book Store on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of November 18,19 and 20th of this year, with my grandson, who is having a Football game competition. Excited about the vast collection of books, the Bar and the resturant next door to the Book Store. My whole family will enjoy the visit to Changing Hands Book Store in Glendale, Arizona. Mike J. Manley (Author). read more

I first found this gem in 2008 and it was love at first sight. This book store has an incredible selection of new and used books. They have a generous buyback policy and loyalty rewards which makes them affordable. They offer educator discounts and employ former teachers and people with library science degrees, so their recommendations are often spot on. They'll order anything you can't find on their shelves, talk about amazing service. In 2018, the owner donated a full class set of books to go along with a local theater troupe's (Child's Play) production of the text. I absolutely love how this community book store loves us back. read more

This bookstore is the cutest! I entered with an authentic window shopping mindset, and luckily didn't break because I already have too many unread books at home. They sell so many things- books (new and used), trinkets, stickers, office supplies, home goods, and even have a bar and dining area on one side. I'll definitely have to check out the dining experience next time I go. There are plenty of good looking books that are on sale, so perfect if you're balling on a budget. Again, it was extremely difficult to restrain my desire to buy everything that looked interesting or cute. There's also a lot of seating areas for when you want to browse a particular item, and literally every genre of book. Beautifully organized! I've always been that person that says " I wish I lived closer to a B&N", but now I'm super excited to have gone to this place near me (that was even more fun) and I'll be going back. read more

I absolutely love this bookstore, however, my partner and I were at the bar yesterday and the woman serving clearly hates customer service. (She's taller, worked the earlier afternoon shift and has brown hair cut into a bob style.) She was rude to almost everyone she served including us. Customers would say please and thank you to her and she would respond with silence and a nasty glare. We received the same treatment and it got to the point where we were wondering if we were even welcome there. It seems like a very inclusive, safe space for people, identifying in all kinds of ways, but with her serving, it made us question whether or not we were welcome there. We would love to return, but aren't sure if we are going to, people shouldn't have to pay to get treated so poorly. We honestly felt bad for the other customers as well. read more

This is my all time favorite place to work when I get cabin fever at home! From the atmosphere to the books to the food and drinks to the coworking space, it is amazing. My favorite work snack: earl grey with lavender tea and the pub cheese with pretzels. They also have a small but awesome rotating draft selection. When ever colleagues visit from out of town and we need a work space, this is where I bring them. I shop here too, it's the best for unique gifts that are usually locally made. I'd give them 10 stars if I could! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

A great place for books and gifts. I frequent Changing Hands when I need a quick something thoughtful for a friend or family.

I called ahead and spoke with Rafael and asked if he had the book called "The Profit" by Khalil Gibran. He said yes and offered to set aside several copies aside for me to pick from. VERY helpful and superb service. I will always come back to this book shop. Nothing beats working with a staff that care you. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is a super cute bookstore with a small bar inside of it. It has a variety of books, journals, cards, small gifts, etc. While some books are used, I saw mostly new during my browsing. While I didn't order anything from the bar it was really cool to have it there, nice concept. There were several people sitting and working on laptops too. The atmosphere of this place is what really makes it cool. If I was looking for gifts for someone, this would definitely be a place to scope out. If you are on the hunt for something specific, you may find a wider variety elsewhere, but it's still enjoyable checking here first. read more

The variety of clever gifts, well-curated books, and the option for day drinking while studying- these are a few of my favorite things! Wish this concept would sustain in Surprise. read more

I love this space and have cherished much time at the 'book bar' working on the wifi and enjoying coffee and bagels. All the employees are super helpful and the selection of books is great for a smaller store. I particularly enjoy the spirituality aisle and have found many books there that I would have never found otherwise. The gift selection is, as has been pointed out, very extensive and wonderful. They have a customer loyalty program at the bookstore and the book bar as well. They are very active in the community as well and often sponsor events in the large meeting space. Changing Hands is as good as a bookstore can get. read more

nice bookstore for sure. while i liked the old mill ave location best changing hands has since changed to different locations and the central and camelback location now has a cafe and bar / event space. still a great bookstore. i had not really tried the cafe / bar but it is very comfortable and a good place to pass time. i wish the bookstore had more books about studying or learning languages but not a huge issue. i like the small spanish language section most. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Event space / cafe area tables - Bookstores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Cute store with a variety of great books. The location is right next to a restaurant and has a coffee shop in it. The bathrooms are nice and large, clean too. If the parking lot is full you can park across the street in the lot. read more

What a cool funky bookstore! I found it while in the area and overheard someone talking about it. So glad I stopped in. They have all types of quirky fun gifts for that special someone in your life or yourself. I liked exploring the different genres of books & found some unique titles as well. I also read a few of the notes from the staff favorites and can understand why everyone appreciates that so much as it really explains why the staff member who wrote it liked the book or would recommend it. I'm not a beer drinker but thought it was pretty neat you're able to enjoy a brew or a glass of wine while you shop. Definitely a very cool vibe and will be back again with friends. Changing Hands is my kinda bookstore. read more

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Really good sized independent bookstore. I spent at least an hour browsing. They have a good selection of books, stationary, and stickers. I also picked up some cute household items. The staff are so nice! Very helpful and friendly. I didn't spend any time at the bar. Maybe next time. read more

Really like this place! Great selection of books and the staff was great. Bought over $1000 in kids books and was able to get a few free books as a result of their rewards system. Will be coming back :) read more

This is a cool little bookstore with some interesting titles I wouldn't find at B & N. They also have a small section of used books, a few trinkets and a friendly coffee bar with pastries. It is very comfy and welcoming inside and you can sit in little coves on benches and have a read. I hear they have beer also but not my thing. The only thing that I would say is if you are a bit older don't say thank you sir or mame to the drink servers. I saw a guy do this and a pronoun issue came up. It was awkward and verging on testy for a short bit. read more

Love this bookstore. I go here not necessarily for the books but for the gift selection. You will find very unique gifts here and it is a good spot for buying little gifts for people. The bookstore also has a bar so you can have a drink while your significant other is shopping. I had coffee after my shopping experience. Was a little annoyed the barista took it upon herself to add a 20 percent tip to my bill - she probably didn't think I would see it - but check your tip button before you sign. I saw it and didn't want to say anything as I was with other people. Thought her actions were rude though - it is up to me as a customer how much, or little I want to tip - and have never experienced that here. Thus I am still giving this place 5 stars because her behavior was an anomaly. read more

Loved the event and listening to the 3 authors on Nov 19 about their first fiction books. Great way to meet brilliant writers and a like minded community. This bookstore is cool and has a lot to offer. read more