Changing Hands is not your ordinary bookstore. I've fallen in love with both locations. I initially found Changing Hands through their Phoenix location which needs a separate review of its own. Both locations have their own unique layout, so you can't even compare them. There is so much to appreciate. This one feels a bit more spacious and I found myself in the store for 2 hours just taking my time looking through the aisles. Immediately upon walking in, I was enamored by their setup and selection of books. They have every genre you can think about. Some sections that caught my eye: a dedicated kids' section and a spot for when special guests come. They're also connected to Wildflower so you can come before or after a sip and bite. Changing Hands is so special because they care about community and also support second hand! Staff is eager to help you out and guide you if you have a specific book in mind. You can bring your well loved books in return for store credit and they're quite generous with the credit. They'll take your books depending on the condition and if they need stock for that book. The cherry on top- I love that I'm supporting a local bookstore. And you even get a stamp card with a discount once you've gotten it all stamped out. Their prices are also affordable, and you can choose from new or used books which is nice. Most of their used books are in pristine condition. I support Changing Hands through and through and am so glad I ran across this bookstore. If you're a book lover, you need to go! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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UPDATE: I opened my new book up and MULTIPLE PAGES WERE RIPPED OUT. Absolutely unacceptable!!! It is OBVIOUS the staff here half ass their jobs as not only was this used book damaged to the point that I won't be able to read it in its entirety, I FOUND SOMEONES TAX DOCUMENTS IN THE BOOK and the staff DIDN'T CARE. This is without a doubt the worst store I have ever been to in my life. I am fuming and will not be coming back, which is incredibly disappointing as I was hoping to support a local business but this store is just an absolute nightmare. Review: The selection was alright at best, but the store was laid out horrifically. I struggled to find any of the books I was interested in, and the staff did not seem interested in helping me in any way. I struggled to find any of the Star Wars books I was interested in as they were just scattered randomly throughout the store whereas every single other bookstore I have been to have franchises that large in their own sections. And it wasn't just the Star Wars books, books from numerous series were scattered randomly across the store making it near impossible to find anything you'd actually want. Want the sequel to your favorite book? Well it's not going to be by the first one in the series, that's for sure. And the prices? Insane!! The used book prices are alright at best, thankfully I was lucky enough to find one decent deal on a book I had already wanted. But it was disappointing nevertheless, as a used paperback from the 90s shouldn't be $8. All of their new books are noticeably more expensive than any other bookstore I've ever been to, at least $5 to $10 more than even Barnes and Noble, who already charge too much IMO. And the staff? Horrifically unwelcoming. There was one or two employees there who made me feel welcome, greeting me on entry and being very polite. But when I found someone's PERSONAL TAX DOCUMENTS in the back of a book, the employee who I handed it off to seemed annoyed that I even acknowledged him, despite the fact that I found something incredibly personal in a used book that should have been checked before it was ever put on the shelf. I have NEVER seen something so unprofessional as I could've gone home with the document and taken this man's SSN (obviously I didn't, that's a felony and I'd rather not go to jail). And the cashier who checked me out seemed annoyed that I was even there. I understand that the economy is rough right now and that working in retail really isn't that fun or fulfilling, but at the same time experiences like that with staff are never fun. Work is hard, but I came in and was nothing but polite, minding my own business as I looked for a good book, so I don't understand why the staff couldn't have at least reciprocated with the slightest bit of positivity or kindness. They were obviously miserable and it made me feel unwelcome and has assured me that I will not be returning to this store. If you are looking for solid deals on books in the suburbs of Phoenix, you are much better off going to Bookmans, Half Price Books, or even Zia Records. Bookmans especially, as their prices on used books are unbeatable. Overall, you're better off skipping this one. While you might be able to find a decent deal, you'll be stuck searching for an hour with little to no help from the staff. It was an incredibly frustrating experience. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore has longtime been a favorite of mine, it's a fun bookstore to visit. I enjoy coming in to browse and grab a snack next door at Wildflower Cafe. Today I looked at a couple books and ultimately ended up buying a non book item. They have a lot of cool stuff for gifts as well. The staff are friendly and can assist with a book trade. They sort through books -- checking their condition, the shops stock levels, the sale history of the titles, etc. Desirable books are priced and placed on a shelving cart listing half of the price in credit, which is redeemable for anything in the store. We recently donated a bunch of books to the library so we might have been able to see about a book trade first, but I forgot. I will try to do a book trade the next time. read more

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Unfortunately I have not had positive experiences in this store. Employees are unfriendly, prices are very high, parking is terrible, and they do not support ESA (and actively discourage ESA use/rude about it). After my last visit, I won't shop there anymore. There are absolutely better options than this place. read more

The last time I stepped into a bookstore was when I was getting my Master's degree. That was ages ago. This bookstore is a lot more pleasant. Changing Hands is more than your typical bookstores. Of course, they have books, but they also have kitchenware, home goods, games, et cetera. It's a good place to look if you're looking for a fun gift for somebody in your life. They share a parking lot with Trader Joe's, so that means it can be a hassle, but don't be discouraged. They host book signings here, too, so get the info on their website to see if your favorite author will be visiting soon. read more

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Cute place, with all sorts of trinkets and stickers. Really love coming here and pop in every time I'm in PHX area. Have a large collection of new and used books in a variety of genres. It's attached to a restaurant as well so can eat and browse all in the same stop I usually grab a couple books and a handful of stickers. Also got a little Buddha to add to my collection! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Is the new and used books so have to look at them to see what you got! - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Wow! What a cool place. You would think it was small as you walk up to it but it's really quite large. They have a TON of books, collectibles, and knick·knacks available. The people are all friendly and can help with selecting just the right book. The prices are awesome and seems to be better than most places. On top of that, they have a big doorway into the wildflower cafe next door so if you're here shopping or reading or just hanging out and get hungry, you can just walk right through and grab a bite, a dessert, or a tasty beverage. 5 stars for this cool little nook! read more

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Both locations are my favorite bookstores, especially if you do not want to break the bank. Their book selection is vast, and I find a good amount of Black-authored books. Also, you get a stamp card for your purchases and they have a $4 book shelves - that's a steal. Support local bookstores! read more

very rude and not helpful. Talked about government issues so much it distracted from service.

Super cute place with TONS of books and adorable/funny little tchotchkes! I went with a friend to look for cookbooks and had a lot of luck (found 2 really good ones) - I will be coming back! read more

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What a great store! They have an exchange program where if you bring in your books in good condition, they will go through and see what they can sell and give you store credit in exchange! Staff is so nice, and it was lovely talking with them. The prices are reasonable as well! What a great place to grab a gift for someone or yourself! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

My friend and I drove from out of town for the Julie Soto: Rose in Chains event. Ticket access was super easy with thorough instructions. When we got into the store, we were immediately directed to the line. Since there were so many people, it was helpful that an employee was standing at the back of the line with a sign to follow. I heard there were over 200 people attending and although it was a tight fit, everything was organized well. The staff was friendly and made the process easy. Thoroughly enjoyed attending this book event. It took about 3 hours, from the actual discussion to the meet and greet. The actual bookstore is huge, too. So you can spend quite a bit of time shopping for books or fun things to decorate your bookshelves. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more book tours for a quick visit. read more

This is an absolutely fabulous find! There is truly something for everyone here, and the mix of used and new books is both current and enticing. I left with a stack of used books that I had been searching for forever. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The space is massive, yet it feels intimate with all the cozy sitting nooks. Pairing a visit here with a stop at Wildflower next door makes for a perfect afternoon. I would give it a 10/10! read more

I love Changing Hands! They have been one of my favorite mini self-reset rendezvous spots I forget about too often - a room of requirement when I need solace and inspiration, an escape from reality to be a kid again. The staff here have always been kind, polite, respectful, generous with their work - I've found many Kodak moments of inspiration on my trips here and simply cannot get enough every single time I've gone. While I'm partial to the new age material myself, I find there's always something waiting to be found there for anyone! They also hold many local engaging and entertaining community events such as live musical performances, meet and greets, seminars and other workshops! Stopping by to pick up a monthly newsletter is one of the highlights to my bi-weekly trader joe runs Local art is displayed all around the front of the shop and staff picks placed perfectly so you'll have to scan every shelf a zillion times to really scratch an itchy noggin I could spend hours debating which items to take home first because the prices just can't be beat when you're having so much fun finding inspiration here. IMPULSE BUYERS BEWARE. AND DO NOT BEHAVE HERE read more

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Please support local businesses and remember to support your local authors! We like that there's wonderful helpers and clerks that can help you find anything read more

I attended my first book-signing event at this venue. They were very organized! I wish other venues would adopt the big sign on a pole that says "the line starts here"! The line moved efficiently through the book stacks and oh so many titles I wanted to take home. The staff were super-attentive to the group and helpful. I definitely want to come back when it's less crowded to shop! Very delightful. And they are connected to Wildflower next door if you want to order a chai tea and read a little before heading home! read more

I do love to come browse the books, and the ability to sell my books when I am finished. They have fun crafts, gifts and many other items to browse. If you need some refreshments or food Wildflower restaurant is attached to sit and enjoy. So.... On the other side of the scale, I feel when trying to sell your books the employees should not spend their time (and ours) chatting and not working to be efficient. When people come in, they do not want to wait over an hour, if they ask regarding their book status, it would be courteous to them they can come back at another time or stop talking mindlessly with the other employees and messing around. We could come back. read more

As a part of Thank You Thursday, I want to write my review for Changing Hands Bookstore. Changing Hands is Arizona's leading independent bookstore, offering new and used books, unique gifts, toys, and more than 300 author events every year in Tempe since 1974. How can you not love Changing Hands Bookstore? With the holidays coming up, you can find some really great items here from oracle cards to incense holders, knit cardigans to crystal sun catchers. Want some cool earrings? Need some Christmas ornaments? Come here! You'll truly find some unique items for everyone on your shopping list. Plus they have a really fabulous book selection. Support independent; support local! read more

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Changing Hands is more than just a bookstore - it's my happy place. I'm grateful for the countless hours I've spent there with friends and at book signings, and I appreciate the love and support they show their customers and community. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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Love love love this store! Been coming here since I was a child and I think this store is part of the reason I still love to read. The trade counter offers fair deals on trade ins. Great children's books and it is well organized. Staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. Will always choose this place over big box stores and Amazon read more

This is my happy place! Great bookstore, has a good selection of used and new books. Staff is nice. They had an amazing corner for banned books this weekend. read more

I have been going here for decades. They not only sell new and used books but unique books. The staff is not only helpful but knowledgeable about various authors and genera's. They have other items for sale as well! read more

Wonderful independent bookstore- support local. Much more than books here. Fun place to shop and relax. Attached to a fun coffee shop read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Shopping - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

They have a nice large selection. Cashiers are always very nice. And you can always find something of value.

My son & I stopped in with his birthday money to find a new treasure for him - we brought along a box of books to see about trade credit. We ended up making $7 on some trade because they didn't have more room for the books they usually take. Everyone in trade was friendly and helpful. My son wanted all the toys, the kids area is very fun. Many kids books to consider. There's a lot to look at, it's well organized, colorful and tidy. My only not favorite part was the over zealous theft prevention tactics of some employees. There was one employee very much on my tail. I even stopped in front of her counter to make a show of only reaching in my purse to get my phone out, while I loudly said, hold on son, I'm grabbing my phone...to which she leaned forward to ask me if I could use any assistance ... In the end we left, with our new toys (that we paid for fyi, lady). And my son enjoyed the trip. read more

One of the best local businesses in Tempe. The selection of books and locally-sourced gifts is fantastic, and I love the punch card rewards system. Having a Wildflower attached is also a huge plus. Support local and go here! read more

Excellent service, selection, and value, especially on Black Friday. Also, it's fun to browse this amazing bookstore. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Izzy likes history it seems. - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Super cute bookstore that has an awesome assortment of both new and gently used books as well as fun kitschy things as well! Worth the stop!

This absolutely my favorite bookstore in the Phoenix area. I always get terrific recommendations from the staff, and I love it when I find a book I've been looking for used. They always have great sale and clearance items, especially if you are looking for cook books or stuff for kids. I'm a fiction lit, fantasy, and YA reader, and they always have a great selection of all three. read more

Incredible selection of books, very well organized, aesthetic, and the staff is so so helpful! I also love all the local, cute trinkets they have to offer - I enjoy coming to this location! read more

The most beautiful experience. Selection was extensive. Value of books was beyond words. Service was not as friendly and attentive as I would have liked but thank goodness I went with friends who are regulars so they guided me on my first visit. Would definitely go back. I really enjoyed this location. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Great selection of books. Yes, many books cost the price on the jacket. I have no issue paying an extra $10 to a a local place over Amazon. Staff are always ready to find the book I'm looking for. Great options for children's books as well. Great spot! read more

This is one of the best bookstores to visit. It has a huge selection of interesting books for people of all shapes and sizes. There is a lot of knickknacks and gift items, but it doesn't deter from the quality of the literature they have. read more

I love finding local bookstores and been wanting to come here but it was in Tempe. Luckily for work I was in the area got some lunch that happened to be next door. After lunch I came inside to check it out. Honestly very cute store so many books, but to me is was like a Barnes and nobles when it came to pricing books I was interested in was like 18 bucks. They did have books outside that was on clearance some interested me wish I had more time to look through but their was some voter person outside and I didn't really wanna deal with them. I will come back next time I'm here, but I wish the prices were cheaper, maybe cuz most the books were hardcover is why they were more on the pricier range. But still a cute shop and they even sold cute gifts and toys and tourist items. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Rows of books and u can see the kids sign - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Probably the best selection of books in any bookstore I've visited. You can find just about anything you're looking for and the store is very organized which makes it easy to browse. This store has a coffee shop, bar, and seating area attached. The matcha latte was delicious. The staff are very friendly. In addition to books, they also have stickers, gift wrap, magnets, journals, pens, notebooks, pencils. There's something for everyone. read more

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The store is very neat and tidy, and they had a nice selection of new and used books. The employees were very welcoming and helpful. Their prices were nice, too! read more

This is a bookstore and more! The selection of books and the placement of the bookracks gives a person plenty of time to roam. I liked that there was a table available to sit and read. Now to the More.... There are local products available for purchase as well as fun gift items. I didn't have a lot of time to wander, but I know the next time I am in town - I will definitely plan on another stop in, so I can really take time to explore the books and all the fun gift items. read more

A wonderful bookshop. Great variety of books, greeting cards, and miscellaneous items like abalone shells, sage bundles, and unique socks. The people who work here are helpful, and non-intrusive as you browse or sit and read. They also have a sweet "frequent flyer" card - you get a stamp for every $10 spent, and when you get to 10 stamps, you get $10 off your next purchase. read more

Incredible vibes and this bookstore! I feel lucky that I can pop into a place, see what is new in books, what gifts are available and pick up a quick and unique gift for a friend. Tons of buying options and a full range of reads from classics to modern authors. read more

Cindy from the store contacted me and assured me the staff will be trained on how Apple Pay works for returns. She also gave me a gift certificate. This is a store that values their customers so I will happily return and leave the incident in the past. read more