Comma is a retail bookstore in Minneapolis occupying a footprint of, I don't know, maybe 800 square feet. While the local narrative often emphasizes the importance of supporting independent shops, my recent visit suggests that this ideal may come at a significant cost to the consumer in terms of utility, comfort, and value. Logistics and Facilities The physical experience of visiting Comma is just abrasive. Parking in the immediate vicinity is difficult, which sets a frustrating tone before one even enters the building. Once inside, the limitations of the tiny floorspace become apparent. The selection is, by necessity, terribly limited. If you are searching for a specific title or a deep dive into a particular genre, this is statistically the last place you should look. Furthermore, the store offers no public restroom, a lack of basic facility that limits the duration and comfort of any visit. Atmosphere and Price The retail environment lacks any auditory masking. There is no background music, resulting in a deafening silence that feels more awkward than contemplative. Every book in the inventory is sold at full retail price. This raises a fundamental question regarding the "buy local" movement: what is the point of a business that offers less selection and higher prices than its competitors? We often speak of a duty to support small bookstores, but we must ask if that duty outweighs the consumer's right to find what they need at a competitive price. Service and Philosophy During my visit, I purchased several books at full price, yet the employee on duty was rude. This interaction highlights the core issue: a business is a business, regardless of its size. If a shop cannot provide a pleasant environment, a robust inventory, or even basic courtesy, its status as "local" should not exempt it from criticism. Conclusion The romanticized ideal of the small neighborhood bookstore needs to be re-examined when the reality is a lack of selection and poor service. I am officially putting a "comma" on my support of this specific model of local commerce. I spent my money here this time, but I will not be returning to this particular business. Ever. Consider that a "period." For those who prioritize finding the books they actually want without unnecessary hurdles, there are better options available. read more

The staff here are super friendly and helpful. It was my second stop on the Indie Bookstore Passport Tour. I loved the location of the store; there were tons of cute shops to poke in and check out in the area. I found the book club offerings here interesting as well. The book selection included a good mix of nonfiction, fiction, and new releases. There was one lone chair if you wanted to sit and look at a book before purchasing. read more

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I loved Comma so much!!! They have amazing merch in the front (I bought socks because I couldn't resist them) and I wanted to buy all of the tote bags, but I already have so many (cry face). They have a wonderful selection of books and I especially loved the back room dedicated to fantasy and romance. I actually got to chat with the owner while I was there, and she was wonderful! come support this local and women-owned business! You should also now that they run several community book clubs, including one with wine. You should go. read more

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My "go to" book store. Great advice if you ask for it otherwise if browsing staff is friendly and welcoming but not intrusive. Excellent selection of fiction, nonfiction and specialty books and willing to research books not available in the store. If you place an order they keep you informed of the progress on fulfillment. Supportive of local authors and book clubs. Perfect. read more

Comma is a light and airy bookshop with all of the latest fiction books on your TBR! The small bookshop is beautifully curated to house the latest popular fiction books. The decor is minimalistic but the service was friendly. If you are looking to buy new books at an independent bookstore rather than a B&N, the comparable prices make Comma a place to check out! read more

Comma, a bookshop - YA Reading Nook - Bookstores Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I stopped by this awesome new bookstore earlier this week -- and I couldn't be happier it's joined the neighborhood! I must have spent ~20 minutes chatting with the owner, Victoria, who is so friendly and easy to chat with. The shop has a nice selection of popular books. There's a front room and then another room in the back with a couple chairs for reading. I also loved the Minnesota themed stickers and literary merchandise. I can't wait to come back and visit Comma, a bookshop again. Parking: There is a lot to the right of the shop, as well as street parking. Fun fact: Dogs are allowed, welcomed, and may even be offered treats! read more

Comma, a bookshop - Books, books and more books! - Bookstores Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Stopped in today as I can't pass up a bookshop. This place is definitely a small little spot but the books seemed very well curated. I'd say this is a must stop for any bookworm. read more

Attractive, Linden Hills bookstore featuring terrific selections curated by the owner Victoria. All new books, with Victorias Picks displayed on one wall, Just Released Fiction and Non-fiction on another, Minnesota authors and themes on another. These are all face-out as is the fantastic collection of cookbooks. Victoria is committed to featuring diversity in authors and topics throughout the store, including many translations. Other sections in the store -- Fiction, Mystery, Biographies, Memoirs, Science & Nature, History, Body Mind and Spirit, Non-fiction, Essays, Short Stories , Poetry, Classics. There's a back room with Fantasy & Sci-Fi, Romance, Young Adults and a wonderful selection of Graphical Novels & Non-fiction. And of course, books-themed small gifts and cards. But don't look for children's books. You'll find them at the wonderful Wild Rumpus bookstore just around the corner. Am I gushing about Comma. You betcha. Victoria is my daughter! Check it out; you'll find everything I say is true about Comma. And, icing on the cake -- it's likely you'll find me there. read more

Great selection, well curated, fiction, nonfiction, mysteries, nature and science, poetry, essays, great cookbook selections, terrific graphical fiction and nonfiction, romance, fantasy/sci-fi, young adults and more. Totes including some custom made for Comma. Knowledgeable, fun staff read more

Victoria, the owner, is a book recommendation wizard! Every year, my family does a book exchange, and without fail, I turn to Victoria for help. I simply share a bit about the person I'm buying for, along with the title of one or two books they've enjoyed, and somehow, she always nails it. Her recommendations aren't just good; they're spot-on. Every single time, the book I've gifted has ended up being my family member's favorite read of the year. Victoria has an incredible gift for pairing people with the perfect story, and it's become a tradition I look forward to every holiday season. read more

Great bookstore, and friendly/helpful staff! We were able to locate one of the many books on my list! read more

Comma, a bookshop - Bookstores Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

This is an amazing shop! The book selection is very high quality and intentional. The owner Victoria is so friendly and has amazing recommendations. The whole store has a very cozy and comfortable vibe. This is my new favorite bookstore - I will be back often! read more