Hands down best independent bookstore in Phoenix! Great selection of new and used books. If they don't have what you want in store, they'll usually order it for you. There are tons of trinkets, home decorations, and unique gifts. I really like that you can trade in old books for store credit. Changing Hands hosts many authors, lecturers, musicians, and other important and famous people. I've been to see several authors but my favorite memory was when they hosted GRUMPY CAT! read more

For many years I've counted on Changing Hands for book, cards, gifts, and feel-good vibes

Formerly my favorite bookstore, but they've declined over the years. I used to work in Phoenix, so I drove past CHs often, but haven't been there recently since my work situation changed. I used to go to their events and buy even my jewelry there. I LOVED them. Today I was in Tempe and thought I'd stop in... Parking is still a beast, but I finally get a spot and walk up to the door... Only to find signs saying "Take a load off! Please leave all bags at the front desk" ... ... Okay. I'm a woman. First of all, very few clothing retailers bother to give us pockets. If they do, they're fake or only the size of a tube of chapstick. Its rotten, and unfortunately for many of us, that makes purses mandatory. I understand and respect the need for loss prevention, but honestly it's bad enough that you usually have the smell of patchouli incense slapping you in the chakras immediately in the door. Now I have to leave my purse with the hippie dippie at the counter?? Do you realize how insulting it is when essentially are going to have to take everything out of your purse in order to leave your purse behind? Pardon the TMI, but I was going to have to stuff a pad and a tampon in my pocket (because I really needed to use the restroom too), along with my chapstick, cell phone, wallet, hand sanitizer, and asthma inhaler - especially because that patchouli usually makes me choke. Maybe men can fit those in their pockets, but the pockets of my yoga pants do not conform. And if I was to hold all those things in my hands... How can I even think about shopping? This may not be a big deal for other people. In fact I'm pretty sure there's a lot of folks out there who are going to think this review is ridiculous. But you know what? Go look up the whole thing about pockets in the female clothing industry. Okay? Fight me over the pocket problem. And then also brings about another point. If I had better pockets to be able to go into the store, theoretically what would stop me from stealing things by putting them in my epic pockets?? Of course I would never steal, but... You see the issue? If this is an effort of loss prevention, it's really not going to be an effective one unless you put up a sign that tells people nobody's allowed in the store unless they're wearing opaque skin tight leggings so everyone knows what you're hiding in your pockets. Society puts women in a situation where we have to have a bag and carry things with us. I'm also sure that the people who might think this review is ridiculous would also be the type of people who would be hideously offended if I was to walk in carrying a tampon sticking out of my teeth like a cigar, or tucked up behind my ear like a pencil. And it's a little painful to stuff my inhaler into my bra. So tell me what am I supposed to do? I looked at the sign, shook my head, and went back to my car and left. I also have social anxiety. I do not like confrontations. I do not like having to ask to put my bag somewhere, just so that I can do the store a favor and shop there. And if people are hovering around me and I suddenly have an asthma and/or anxiety attack, I won't have my inhaler with me. It'll be in my purse! I used to be all about supporting the indie bookstore. This was literally one of my most favorite places in the world - And I mean that, the whole world. I would go there just to wander the shelves and relax and enjoy the peace and quiet and browse for a fun book. I'm sorry y'all. I'm not trying to be a sellout but... Barnes & Noble lets me carry my purse with me. And they are definitely more asthma-friendly. So I wish you the best and peace out. I won't be coming back. read more

Not sure why there are so many political comments on a bookstore but... okay.. No politics involved; I love this place. I've always loved going to the Tempe location when I am in the area. I love their selection of books, novelty items, and cards! They also have a great selection of stationary, for fans of snail mail! I've had nothing but pleasant experiences here and always love chatting with the associates. read more

My first-time visit and I was impressed by how big it was, the selection, and the reading areas. I bought a signed copy of Lee Childs's latest Jack Reacher book as well as a Captain America graphic novel. The staff provided awesome customer service. read more

Love this place! Wish I had more time to look around.. It's an urban, cool book store selling new and used books... Also filled with random little trinkets and treats. There's also a little cafe bakery type placeattached. Again, I wish I had more than just the few mins I had to look around... Nice atmosphere and comfy vibe. Definitely a cute place to check out... At the entrance, there's even a little table with FREE books.. Cool! read more

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Haven't been here in ages and I forgot how awesome the staff is. Picked up a book for my hubby and when I called to place a hold for same day pick-up, Brandy was beyond helpful. Yay for supporting local bookstores and for buying a used book at a reasonable price. Thank you, Changing Hands!! read more

This bookstore is fantastic! A large selection of books and gifts sure to please anyone!

Been going here for decades. Great place to read, buy books and exchange books. Also the best, most useful and unusual gifts and kitchen gadgets around. The card selection is way better than any grocery or superstore. They have crystals, chimes, candles, bags, puzzles, toys, and incense. Great place for baby gifts, too. Love supporting exceptional local businesses like this. 20+ years later, they are "Still the One"....PS Get some iced tea or soup & salad at Wildflower Bread Company next door (attached), another great small business. read more

Rob. W. and I stumbled over this place when we first moved to town a couple of years ago. We had a bunch of books that we'd been given and didn't have a real interest in reading most of them. I did a quick search of our new neighborhood and found a place that we could try and sell them at. We lugged all the books with us, and we ended up selling about 6 of them (the ones in good condition and in demand). For having purchased none of them, we were psyched. Needless to say though, after exploring the shelves for about 15 minutes, we ended up spending way more than the value of the books we sold. Date Night - with or without your SO: If you like to read, or enjoy looking at pretty little things, this is the place for you. They have books for everybody in a wide price range, and cute knick-knacks. This place is also full of beautiful journals near the front door that inspire you to write. Service: I wouldn't say that everybody is approachable, however, the people I've interacted with have been incredibly friendly and so kind. For instance, the middle-aged female cashier who helped me out today was the kindest person. She was genuine and caring. Special events: They do book-signings here and special speaking events. We'd stumbled into the store one evening and knew from the packed parking lot that there was something happening that night. The event area was completely full of people, both sitting and standing. The speaker was a constitutionalist. You can probably guess what he was speaking about given the day and age we're living in. Whenever I have a chance, I'll come here. I don't need to buy anything. Just wandering around the books for a bit lifts my spirits. read more

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My favorite bookstore. Nothing comes close. Been coming here for years and years. Because of course I've been very adamant about supporting our local book sellers. In the age of Amazon it's really important to do the right thing and stand by your local bookstore. In any case anytime I want to get a book and I'm in the area I always go to changing hands. Highly recommended. Excellent staff. Always very knowledgeable no matter what question I ask. I will keep coming back to changing hands for years to come and I recommend checking this wonderful bookstore out whenever you have the chance. read more

This place is probably the cleanest used book store that I have been in, it's such a cool spot. It was much bigger than I expected and had a good collection of books, I could definitely spend too much time and money here. One thing I liked was the unique tchotchkes they have. I feel like the prices are a little steep on some, but there were definitely some others that I saw and will probably come back for. All in all Changing Hands is doing a lot of things right and I will be back for sure to purchase some books and tchotchkes. read more

Changing hands is a godsend and the greatest asset our community has - proven by the fact that many people who are outsiders and jealous try and leave negative reviews. Don't bother with the pitiful haters out there and want people to be as miserable as they are - let them wallow in their pity and misery. read more

This is my favorite bookstore ever. Been coming here for years. I love to support local businesses particularly bookstores because they're so rare nowadays. And the owners of this bookstore really care about a good experience for people like me who just love good books. Of course I also appreciate the fact that they work so hard to make sure that everybody is happy. The selection here is really great and the feel that you get when you come here is that it's one of community. These people really care about the book business and the books that they sell and the people that they sell their books to. I wish I could give them more than five stars because I would. read more

Called and Ryan pulled these books and had them ready for pick up to make it easy. #ShopLocal Awesome customer service. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Absolutely wonderful local business. Great selection of books and gifts. Friendly and helpful staff. I often bring out of state visitors here and they're always impressed! read more

I love this independent bookstore!! Changing Hands has been a vibrant part of the Phoenix area for decades. Changing Hands hosts meet-the-author and other book-related events that are much enjoyed by bibliophiles like me. The stores offer an intriguing selection of books (of course!) as well as a thoughtfully-curated selection of gifts and cards. In the many, many years I have shopped at Changing Hands (since the days of the original store in downtown Tempe), the staff has always been knowledgeable and helpful. P.S. Their rewards cards are awesome. So much fun to get $10 off a purchase from time to time. read more

Some great, unique finds in this book store. Always fun to go in and see what's new. And the concept of changing hands book is radically positive, intelligent. All good from my viewpoint. read more

What a gem! This place was recommended by a friend and she was spot on! They have the most unique gifts. I had a party for a friend who is impossible to buy for and found so many great items! The gift was loved and you gained two new forever customers! read more

These guys hide behind being a local business. Shop local!! They push their political agenda and will make sure you are seeing all the virtue signaling everywhere. Can't we shop without being lectured about politics or the color of our skin? Not at changing hands. I personally was verbally attacked because I was wearing a red detroit red wings hat. It is red and white and one of the cashier's kept screaming something about it "triggering" her. I was trying to buy Dr. Suess before they removed them like a book burning. I also got a book called Munsey Business but it was pretty sad and it had about 30 pages ripped out of the middle. They wouldn't take it back and said I must have done it. I made sure to not wear my sports attire when I went back and just disputed it on my credit card which they tried to fight. read more

I have been a shopper at this store for YEARS (since they were on Mill Avenue) and have always loved everything about this store from the books, the extra stuff they sell and their customer service. Today the customer service my adult son received, while I was standing there, was abhorrent. My son asked a simple question about a book and the store associate replied back with nothing but snark, judgment and rudeness. For a store which preaches diversity and acceptance of all I am astounded how he was treated and I am questioning supporting the small local business. read more

Love this cute bookstore.. in addition to lots of books many cute gift-type things for all occasions ... support independent bookstores!!!

I love being surrounded by all the books written by intelligent people or at least those who dare to put their thoughts on paper a great place to visit read more

Completely left-winged establishment. They have a shrine to Joe Biden's name at the front of their store and the rest of the store is littered with BLM type of material. I gave them a chance because the staff is friendly enough. I could not find ONE conservative book in the entire store. The only thing I could find was George Will's book who just recently left the Republican Party. Conservatives and republicans - don't waste your time. read more

This is a fantastic bookstore! They've got old and used books along with the typical bestsellers you'd find at a larger chain. I could stand in awe at their shelves for hours. Every time I go, it's tough for me to walk away without buying some new tome. They'll even buy your books for store credit. Just drop off your used editions at the trade-in counter, go sip on coffee next door at Wildflower, and come back to redeem the value towards anything in the store. I really like how they give back to the community through donations and support. The staff is always really friendly too. Feel good about shopping at Changing Hands, I know I do. read more

A true heartfelt fav. Perhaps a final bastion of independent brick and mortar book sellers. Man! I've been going to Changing Hands since the 80's, when it was located on Mill Ave adjacent to the equally awesome Cookies From Home. Bah, now Mill is all gentrified and washed out of character. Ptooie! But Changing Hands yet survives in a new location on the SW corner of McClintock and Guadalupe. It was in Changing Hands where I: - Found a copy of "The World According to Garp" after seeing the movie at Valley Art - Discovered "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" - Was intrigued by "The Mote in God's Eye" - Gambled on "The Gift" by Patrick O'leary - Became entranced by Stephen King's "Dark Tower" series and "It" I could go on and on. Sigh. Ya see, when I head into Changing Hands, I am accompanied by rich mist of memories. I'll spare you that prolix maudlin account... I'll leave it at: if you knew just a taste, you'd envy me. From a purely practical stand point, the store is clean, orderly. The prices are competitive for brick and mortar. The customer service is, dare I say it... caring. And you can always count on a table or two of employee recommendations that will grab your heart like a vise, challenge your spirit, send you hurtling into a distant sun, and more. It's up to you now. Support this gem. You feel it. You're being drawn in. It's OK. Give in to it. I envy you the discovery. I hope it's a rainy night for you to set the proper mood. Create your own adventure here. read more

Absolutely adore this place! I've already purchased so many books that I'm embarrassed to share lol. Those who know me also know that I'm a sucker for great customer service and the employees working here obviously understand what that means. They make you feel so welcomed, loved, warm and fuzzy haha. Whenever I call the book keeper to see if a book is available it always is and she is always so sweet and eager to put it on hold for me. Bookworm heaven! Used and low priced books galore! Have most definitely found my new book spot! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - One of my babies. Bought used. Good condition. $7.95! - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I have driven by Changing Hands Book Store a million times and have never stopped by, so during my lunch hour I was set to check it out! I went prepared with a list of books I wanted to check on to see if they had it and pick up some today. I have been to the other big 2nd hand bookstore in Mesa tons of times, and have been looking for a few books from Paulo Coelho, trying to build up my collection and they didn't have them so I thought I would try Changing Hands and see if I could get lucky there. When I walked in I went right to the book information desk where I met Brittany, who by the way is extremely helpful, she was wearing a Wuthering Heights t-shirt and 1st thing I said was wow I like your shirt, it was one of my favorite books growing up, she then said oh I have a book you need to check out, so off we went to check out this book, and along the journey she had forgotten she was wearing Wurthering Heights and thought it was Pride and Prejudice which is another favorite of mine and told me if I liked P&P that I should check out Austenland, which I most definitely will now! Then after some small talk about Colin Firth and how dreamy he is, I then quickly refocused to the reason why I was there and showed her my list and off we went! I found the books I was looking for, had excellent customer service, and got to check out a new bookstore to me. Now I just need to go back to Changing Hands when I have more time to explore. read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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My all time favorite bookstore. SHOP LOCAL!!! I could spend hours in this store! They have all the cutest trinkets and gifts (especially for Christmas). They have clothes, amazing socks, little knick-knacks, wind chimes, kitchen utensils, etc etc etc. & then the books! Literally everything and they have authors and special guests in all the time. Even Rainn Wilson from, Dwight from The Office, once! My kids looooove the kids section! They would spend forever there if they could. They have super modern toys and then toys with an olden day charm. I can't lie, I want some of these toys!! Last time we were in we got a glow in the dark dinosaur fossil egg and a rocket launcher that launches with vinegar and baking soda-SO COOL!! Changing Hands always has awesome sales. There's a back section that has crazy, bargain books! Most are only $2. I'll definitely be going for their New Year's Day sale! read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Just a peek at the kids section! - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

After reading about this place here on Yelp, I decided it was time to wander into this marvelous establishment once and for all, and check it out. I was in the market to purchase a book, and thought why not wander in here to see if they had it or not. I arrived, and immediately I fell in love. Warm, clean enviroment that had lots to view. I got lost in the front half of the store with all of the cool stuff that they had, with the cute magnets, funny tins for change, candles and knick knacks for sale. I wandered to the back of the store where the books were and was happy with the selection that they had. Organized like a traditional "big box" bookstore, everything was easy to locate and appealing to the eye. I ended up going to the service counter in the back to see if they could locate the book that I wanted, and was helped by a nice guy who not only paid attention to what I was saying, but walked me to the area that my book should have been. Unfortunately, they did not have it in stock, but I was told that it could be ordered if I was interested. Staff was great, store is clean and organized, and I was happy to see that they sold more then books. Its also attached to a wildflower bakery if you would like to grab a bite to eat or drink. I ended up grabbing a muffin and sat in the back reading my own book that I brought with me for the Yelpers book club at the end of the month. This place is worth going out of your way for, and I highly reccomend it. Great independant location. read more

I love going to Changing Hands. The staff is always friendly and helpful. They have a great selection of books. As a teacher, I also love that they have an annual Educator Appreciation event and a teacher discount that helps me get more books into my students' hands every year. read more

An in-store author appearance & reading is what finally got me down to Changing Hands. I've been meaning to check it out for eons, but it's not in the most convenient part of Tempe, especially when you're in central Phoenix, and are trying to get there midweek in evening rush hour. Anyway, granted, the author I went to see is actually a friend of mine, but that's besides the point. Changing Hands is a great change of pace from B&N/Borders/Bookstar-ville. Every staff member I talked to seemed like an avid fan of books and not just working there "because it's a job." Definitely a place where I'd trust their recommendations. A great array of books that I'll have to survey in more detail next time (along with checking out Wildflower next door), but they had some really great stuff on the sci-fi, travel and political front. I just wish it didn't have to be in a suburban strip mall but you can't have everything. Maybe they'll open an "annex" in downtown Phoenix down the road? In any case, it's definitely a joint worth the effort driving to and spending a few hours in (maybe not during evening rush hour, but spending full Saturday afternoons in July there when it's 113 degrees outside sounds like an awesome idea). read more

Changing Hands Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

This place is magic for everyone, but especially for book lovers. The staff are always kind and super helpful. They have a great selection of books, art, games and many other fun things. Love the atmosphere here and how they support the community and public education. read more

This bookstore is more like a cross between bookstore and metaphysical store. There are always a ton of events, the night we went there last they were having a author discussion and signing. So many kooky things, toys, wind chimes, incense, Alex Grey calendars, tarot decks, cooking supplies and they regularly have sales on their used books. There are also book clubs, children's reading, and as an added bonus; Wildflower Bread Co. is next door. They have a program called Before It's Trendy for kids ages 12-17 that allows readers to apply to join and read books long before they are published. You get advance copies of books and write reviews on them, if your review is selected you get trade credit! read more

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If I ever needed to buy a new book in person, this is the store I'd go to! They do have used books as well, but not as many to rival Bookman's. In addition to books, they sell cute little knick-knack items, totes, and book related items such as book ends and bookmarks. This Changing Hands seems to have been here forever, and hopefully it will continue to be here! They also have signings and talks by authors on occasion. Back in the early 2000s, I went to a talk and signing by Bruce Campbell. Very cool! On my last shopping adventure here, I took home 2 floss containers, one in the shape of a hedgehog, and the other in the shape of a fox. Very cute (And random for a bookstore)! read more

Hands down my favorite bookstore in Tempe! I picked up a couple of unique cookbooks here, "Not Your Mother's Slow Cooker" and "A Passion for Cheese". Better yet, they were both marked down. It is definitely worth perusing the outdoor sales tables outside of this bookstore for great bargains. I also showed up for an event here and got a book signed by the author. The book was "Bacon: A Love Story", which made for a great gift for my friends who are both chefs. They even had Wildflower Bread Company next door, provide some complimentary bacon-based goodies! The number of knick-knacks and gift items that you can find throughout the store make it a worthwhile shopping destination, especially if you are prone to shipping care-packages to friends and just need those two or three wacky items to round out the box. Love this place. Will be a repeat customer forever. Especially if they provide BACON! read more

Cute and friendly little shop! Wish we had more of these around the valley. Lots of knick-knacks in addiction to their large book selection

A fun local book store. They have a curated selection of books, both used and new, and I love exploring. In addition, they have cards, fun toys and gag gifts, holiday themed items, and art from local artists. You can also sell your old books for credit, which I recommend especially if you read newer books or have some eternally popular titles. They also hold events. read more

My family and I love coming here! They have such a wide selection of books and spiritual items to add to your collection. I've gotten little mini Buddha's, really cute notepads, and much more here! The staff is also super friendly and very safe during Covid! read more

Clearing space for a move this spring, and brought in some books I wouldn't read again. They now ONLY offer store credit for and not cash for trade-ins, which is fine. I received 1/4 to a 1/3rd of the list price, was happily surprised. They are picky, but they should be One thing I love is that the staff is very good at figuring out what book you want even if you're unsure of the author or title. After a recommendation, I went in forgetting the name and asked for "Something like the Cornish Pie Club, or . . . " and the young lady says "Oh yeah, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" (an excellent read so far, btw) Update: The Guernsey book is a fantastic read, can't recommend it enough read more