Nice bookstore and gift shop but it is light on used books. They do buy used books and sell them but it seems that the focus has shifted to new books and gifts. Some of the pictures posted by other Yelpers show off a lot of the gift type items that are at the front of the store. read more

Quaint, hip little bookstore with a nice variety of books and gifts.

Loved the layout of the store and how easy it was to look in certain sections. They had numerous sales and also had a customer discount. I enjoyed spending 30-45 minutes finding good books in great condition. read more

I love to read. I mean I really love to read, about a book a day on average. With that in mind, books are not cheap, and I love "recycling" them to save money and paper. Changing Hands offers a wide variety of books, both new and used. While I will always miss the Mill Ave. store of my youth, this Tempe location does a great job. They have a great area for readings, easy to hear and see the author, while allowing others to browse the rest of the store. One thing I really like is that when you trade in book, if there are one's that they can not buy from you, they will donate them. Often I'll just pass them along that way, it saves me a trip anywhere else. Just walking into any bookstore for me is a joy - the smell of all those books is like ambrosia to me. Unlike the corporate chains, the Changing Hands staff is always super friendly and nice, and always helpful. It's like walking into a friends house - you immediately feel welcome. read more

I love Changing Hands Bookstore! Especially around the holidays. They sell much more than books. The staff is friendly and helpful. They always have book readings and signings. There is a monthly schedule posted in the bookstore. My 5 year old loves coming here to the kids section. Although it is pricey, they have a better selection of kids books than most box stores. I usually find at least 5 non-book gift for family and friends during the holidays. Warning: if you are going to Changing Hands Bookstore from far away, it may be a good idea to call 1st and make sure there isn't a "famous" Author Signing. I went once when a politician was there. It was a mess! I had a special order book to p/u and when they called to tell me that the book was in, they failed to mention that it wouldn't be a good idea to p/u that day. I had to have my purse searched and left by the front door, secret service was there, and it took me over 45 minutes to get in and out with my $5 paperback book. The parking can get a little hectic during popular book signings too, so if you are going during a book signing get there early. read more

Like many of the other reviews, I found Changing Hands Bookstore to be a great alternative to the bigger box book stores. They have about half new books (new releases, top sellers) then half used. I got 5 used books for $40, and they were all in great condition. I'm impressed with their selection, and the store is very organized. Overall I loved it! The staff is great, and it seems they have LOTS of wonderful events and author readings. read more

Went there for the first time yesterday to buy a ticket for an upcoming Jon Krakauer lecture/signing (woo!) I was totally impressed.... it pleasantly reminded me of my favorite book store back home. The layout of the store is really fun... and easy to navigate.... and the staff is SO HELPFUL!!! and SO NICE!!! :) Unfortunately I was on my lunch break so I didn't have much time to kill.... but I'll definitely be going back!! :) read more

Such a fun book store, probably our favorite. They are always having author special guests. Large selection of books, all reasonably priced. Good chill atmosphere with a slice of randomness thanks to their odds and ends at the front. Can't complain about it being connected to a cafe either! :) We love supporting this place. They even give you $10 toward a book on your birthday, awesome people. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Brandon Sanderson - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I can only think of good things about changing hands. It's one of those places you eant to buy every single clever knick knack in there. Love the environment and incense for sale particularly. Met Joe Perry there by buying his book for only $30!! read more

Changing Hands is such an awesome bookstore that I just love going to browse their collection. They have some of the best used books selection and also a good selection of new books. They are continually having special guests and events that keep me going back. I have honestly found most of my Chuck Palahniuk's collection at Changing Hands and all have been first editions, some were even signed. Plus their connected to Mayflower Bread Co. which is delicious as well but that's another review. So check it out and if you'll be going back ask about their punch cards for extra savings. Happy Reading. read more

Oh Changing Hands...we go way back. I remember climbing the ladder in your store on Mill Ave. when I was a child. I'm an avid book-worm and I always go to Changing Hands when I need something to read. Although the store is noticeably smaller than Barnes & Noble and Borders, they've always carried what I was looking for. Sometimes I give them a call before I head over just to make sure they have what I need, but that usually isn't an issue. Why choose them over a chain bookstore? The environment is quiet and warm, which makes people want to explore the shelves forever. Also,the staff is knowledgeable and can always recommend a good book. Side note: The store is connected to Wildflower Bread Co., which has the best chicken salad sandwich, bread salad and passion fruit iced tea. Hint hint. read more

After finding that one of my classes this semester called for a book a week, I decided that ASU didn't deserve all of my money and that I would try this place. Best decision ever. I walked in and talked to the first person that I saw behind the counter (I'm pretty sure his name was Kevin) and he was honestly the most genuinely considerate person I had ever met. He knew exactly where to find every book and, even though he was clearly in the middle of something when I first walked in, he took a break to walk me around the store and help me find my list of nearly 20 books. Although the store itself didn't have even a fifth of what I needed, the customer service was remarkable. He even suggested other books that I ended up buying because he seemed to really know his stuff. I highly recommend this place and walked away all smiles. (On a quick side note: I checked out 3 other bookstores similar to the concept of this one and everyone I asked to help me at the other stores was completely useless and almost rude. So, save yourself the time from trying other places, like Bookmans, because I already did that for you). Changing Hands FTW! :) read more

My credit card statement does not lie: I love Changing Hands. Everything about this place is great. The staff is relaxed and helpful. Since it's highly trafficked, I can usually find whatever title I need. The events are fun, too. Definitely check out their calendar as big names come through regularly. I got to meet the creator of The Oatmeal here last March! read more

AMAZING place! I've turned in several books and received some pretty good in store credit for them. Although you won't always save $10 on every book (sometimes you do!), you'll still save quite a bit of money! DEFINITELY recommend this place! The service is always wonderful! I can't wait to move back out to Phoenix so I can go here once again! read more

What gem this place is! I attended Pioneer Woman cookbook signing, very well organized. Great place for gifts! I will be back lots! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - So excited to get it signed! - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I love this place! They've been around for almost 40 years, and hope that they'll be here for many more! My belated mother, Sally, used to frequent it while they were at the Mill Ave location. They're still in a great locale! Probably even better, in a neighborhood with a Trader Joe's and a Baskin Robbins! Anyway, I feel like royalty! I walk in and one of the staff, Eddie, yells "there's Megan M" and I start to look around! Last August, my birth month, I went inside for a second, and he said, "did you hear that there's some great deals in the back room?" That's where there are PLENTY of books for sale. He'd mentioned that you get a paper bag, which is provided and FILL it FULL of BOOKS and you can purchase the contents for only $10! Sweet deal, eh? Well, that's it for now! Because I could just go on and on about Changing Hands! Megan A Loyal Fan read more

VIsited for a book signing and it was great. Event was well organized, staff was friendly. Definitely my new go to bookstore for when I pick up paper books. read more

First time here. Came to meet felicia day. Pretty nice store. I live in surprise so probably won't be back, but even on a cramped book signing lines were organized, no complaints. Warm because of all the people, but it was a fun event. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Changing Hands is the perfect bookstore. These types of places just don't seem to exist, but Changing Hands has managed to survive. Allow me to begin by saying that this bookstore does not have anywhere near the selection of a Barnes and Noble (or probably a Borders, but I don't go into that garbage store and cannot be sure). With that said, there are a few reasons to shop here. First, and most importantly, they have well priced used books. I believe most of their used books are $7.50. They are also all in pristine condition. Now, $7.50 used isn't always that great for a paperback. You can do better online quite often. What's notable, however, is that their hardcovers are typically $7.50 as well. This is a fantastic price and is hard to beat. Second, the location of CH is perfect. This is one of the best plazas out there. Wildflower, Trader Joe's, Mac's, Jamba Juice--you can't go wrong. Third, and finally, Changing Hands is a local store, and many good things come with that. The staff is extremely friendly. From what I can tell, they are all hardcore book nerds and you have to love that. The store also has a very welcoming feel to it. Once you're in, you will realize how extremely friendly everyone is. No, not just the staff--the customers. Everyone is talkative, friendly, and just seems to be happy. They are all indulging in one of their hobbies in one of the most inviting stores I have ever seen. Someone will ask the staff "who wrote such and such?". The staff will almost assuredly spot a regular and ask him or her "who wrote such and such". If he doesn't know, someone else will probably pipe up. It's this type of thing that makes it a great store. Overall, it just has a great atmosphere. The only negative comment I can make about Changing Hands is how hippy it is. There's a ton of books on spiritual techniques, new age methods, buddhism, and whatever the hell else hippies/hipsters think makes them look more cultured. Of course, this just goes along with the Tempe, Trader Joe's, and book reading demographic, so I can't blame them for meeting the inherent demand. read more

It was my first time in there and it was AMAZING. I went on my lunch break, so I didn't even get through half of the store. I picked up a used book on sale only to get back to my office realizing that I've already read it. I was so excited to find the author, I didn't recognize the title. They said I could come back this afternoon to exchange it! The place is huge and so full of knick knacks, lotions, home fragrance, shirts, and new and used books, I could spend days just browsing. Their stationary/bag/notebook selection is awesome too. I can't wait to frequent this store with my punch card! (When you fill it, you get $10 off a purchase) buuuuutttt my bank account can most certainly wait. read more

This is my favorite book store. I love the atmosphere and the staff is friendly. My daughter also loves to shop here & browse the selection.

Such a cool book store. It has books, trinkets, journals, incense and much more. Stop by this place and find a cool gift for a friend. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I love Changing Hands Bookstore. They have a great selection of books and gifts and the staff are knowledgeable and personable. I also loved the workshop I attended there last week taught by Suzie Coggins. She taught us the basics of reading tarot/angel cards and had us practice on each other. Even if you didn't know anything about the subject, it was fun learning. The people in the class were upbeat and willing to try new things. We all agreed that we'd love to make this a monthly event and bring our friends. Even if you don't have any cards, Changing Hands has a big selection of ones to chose from. Great teacher, group of people and location. What can be better? read more

Absolutely love this store. They have such a wide variety of books new and used. They also have a great gift section in the store.

Dear Changing Hands, I don't have enough wonderful words to express just how wonderful you are so I think a Haiku should work. Smells of deep passion, Quirky, Serious, loves abound, Oh! A meet and greet! Sincerely, Kaley read more

Amazing bookshop! Best place to browse. Sells both new and used books as well as interesting puzzles, jewelry, fun stuff.

the best metaphysical and spiritual section in the valley! At first I was shy from the workers there because they are really young, but once again, keeping an open mind opned mine from their outstanding recommendations!!!!! I was made to feel very comfortable and the prices were OK as well - big plus. The bathroom for women is indeed the bees knees LOL! THe Bakery next door and Trader Joes down the way makes this a GOLDMINE. RUn do not walk!! read more

This is easily my favorite bookshop!! It has a wide array of new & used books, unique and entertaining knick knacks, and frequent author visits which often result in a good supply of signed books. It is a really peaceful and lovely environment, with employees that obviously are interested in their product and customers. I could really just shop here all day :3 read more

Insulted by staff and was mislead to believe this was a place to find a lot of used books.. Asking questions of on staff member when another staffer standing right next to them under there breath insults me. They offending staffer probably thought i did not hear them but i did. As for selection of used books there where maybe 20 in the whole store. They need to not claim to be a used book store when there inventory is 95% new books. Will not be going back ever and can not in the least recommend this store when there are tons of Barnes & Nobles around that have the same if not better prices. read more

Changing hands bookstore has been a source of quality, unique books for my classroom as well as gifts for my grandchildren. It has been a haven for me when I needed somewhere to restore and renew my spirit. The Phoenix store is staffed with knowledgeable Book lovers, who are passionate about their business Of helping you find just the right book, or other gift for someone. I am so pleased that there is now a Changing Hands Bookstore for those of us on the west side of the valley! read more

Much bigger than the phoenix location, vibrant, huge, offering events, new and used books. Plan for at least an hour when you stop by! Perfect place to buy fun high quality gifts, wind chimes, candles, and handmade pottery. It just feels so welcoming. The stuff helps a lot to make it a very special bookstore. read more

The only reason I am giving them 2 stars is because my past experiences have been above average, but since the first of the year this location is on the skids.... Brought one small bag of books in to exchange and no one was at the exchange area. They paged a young man whose body language told me he didn't feel he should have to do this.... He said it would take 20 minutes to go through my books, after less than 10 minutes outside, I was walking into check new stock, and he was already half way through the person who was behind me first box. He told me he didn't need any of my books that they had all of them in stock. Which just wasn't true. He flat blew me off. read more

Cutest place I've run into in awhile. Walked in randomly while waiting for a to go order I had placed. Definitely want to make some time to come back, especially since they're right across the street. Can't wait to bring my little one when she's old enough! read more

Great place and a fun atmosphere. Love the mix of new and used items. Staff is really nice and SUPER helpful.

Great selections of books.... new and used. Of course the gift section has a great selection. Love shopping local!

While I get that it's a great bookstore, I don't understand why everyone thinks it's the best. More than once, they've not had newer books I was looking for (that should have been easy enough to find) and the staff seem elitist and stuffy, as if I'm not "Green" enough to shop there, and were never around when I actually needed help. This is a great place if you're into, for lack of a better word, Hippy things. But not the non-materialistic Hippy, more like the "I have so much money that I don't need to buy mass produced things" Hippy. The best part about this store is that they have a ton of events and seem to be really involved in the community. They also have a ton of unique and/or handmade gift items - a huge portion of the store is dedicated to this - but make sure to have a lot of disposable cash because it's all expensive. Besides events or out of sheer boredom, I wouldn't go out of my way to shop here. read more

I can't believe I haven't reviewed this bookstore. I love Changing Hands it is my favorite local bookstore. I love searching for used books on my to read list and the thrill of finding them at a reasonable price. I do wish that some of the staff would be a little more friendly. When I bring in books to sell they are often rude and seem as though they cannot be bothered to help you. That bit is off putting and is something that can be worked on. You are working in a bookstore people are here to relax and look for new books, chill and stop taking yourself so seriously. read more

This is my absolute, favorite bookstore. They have an amazing selection of new and used books to choose from. They have so many author/book signing events for adults and for kids. Great location too! read more

I've been going here since I was in pre-school and it really is a special place. I love supporting local independent stores, but Changing Hands takes the cake. They always have the sweetest employees and I always find an interesting book to read. Being next to Wildflower is definitely a bonus as well! This is also my go-to spot for gifts, there is an abundance of funny and niche products as well as beautiful candles and wind-chimes. The store itself has tons of character, is well-lit and relaxing. I will continue to shop here as long as I am in Tempe! read more

I love this bookstore! Used and new titles at affordable prices, helpful staff, lots of fun gifty items. I love bookstores where the fiction section has large tables filled with great suggestions - I don't think you can leave this place without buying something. There's a great religion/spirituality/new age section (I even got to see some random dude meditating and blocking the hallway. You know it's a great bookstore when there are men criss-cross-apple-sauce deep in thought blocking the isles.) The bookstore has a very grass-roots-helping-local-businesses-succeed atmosphere. I will buy here (and trade in) often. read more