Hicklebee's

I didn't give myself nearly enough time here. The street…read morefacade hides the complexity of the interior. The labyrinthine interior has rooms off of rooms. How did this design come about? The first impression I received was of the height. I was faced by shelves significantly higher than I can reach. Fortunately, there are small step ladders available. I went right back to the film section, consisting of three or four full size bookshelves. I found several interesting titles, and had to move little piles on each shelf that hid books behind them. Not a complaint. There were also piles of books on the floor. The prices were very reasonable. I originally held three books in my hand, before paring down to one. I quickly wandered through the other sections, and peered into the antique area that was roped off, for serious shoppers only. I need to go back with at least an hour to spend. I was grateful for the bathroom access, and there's a cat, like all good bookstores should have.

This bookstore is awesome!! I can't believe I've never been here until now, though I have visited…read morethe Campbell location. First off, I love the political signs posted on the windows, like the "everyone is welcome here except ICE". When I walked in, the store looked exactly like what I've always envisioned a cozy community bookstore to be like--filled to the brim with books and with a lot of character. I came here to sell some books and it was pretty quick--I had probably 20-25 books and the employee finished in less than 10 minutes. As I was waiting for my books, I walked around exploring. I was very impressed with the selection of fiction. There were actually quite a bit of new releases, but also older books and editions that I would likely not find at a corporate bookstore. If I had the time, I'd love to spend 1-2 hours here just browsing. I didn't expect to get much money for my books; I was actually going to donate them and didn't realize that they still buy books, so their offer was ok. I was moreso pleasantly surprised that the employee was so nice lol, and also a little chatty. Honestly the last time I sold books was probably 15-20+ years ago at Half Price Books and I remember they were always pretty rude/standoffish lol. In addition to the service, the atmosphere, and the book selection, the cherry on top for me was that they have a special shelf where you can buy a book there for 50% off for them to donate to the library at Elmwood Correctional Facility at a bit of a loss for the store. I used most of my credit from the books to get a Stephen King book for the library.

Emma the Cat :)

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Heaven.

Books Inc.

4.3(82 reviews)

2.2 mi

Friendly Staff, good selection of books, and on occasion you may find that book you've been long…read morelooking for!

After lunch, I wanted to check the bookstore next door to the restaurant…read more This is a really nice bookstore with a ton of great books. Each area is divided by subject matter. I really love fiction, so I hung out in that area for a bit to see what they had. I really like the layout of this store and how they display the books. They even had a section called "blind date with a book." They were gift wrapped with a tiny quote from the book or description about the book. What a fun idea. There nothing like have a tangible book in your hands to read. I prefer reading books this way, over using a device. I guess I'm just old school. Prices are what's labeled on the book. They also offer a discount section of books.

Wolf

I love cookbooks

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Outside

Kinokuniya

4.4(274 reviews)

4.5 mi•West San Jose

A fantastic Japanese bookstore inside Mitsuwa that carries books in both Japanese and English. The…read morestationery selection is also awesome, with tons of fun and unique items. Walking around the store genuinely felt like taking a little trip to Japan. A must-visit if you love Japanese books, stationery, or culture.

It's not a bad Kinokuniya, but after going to the other ones, this one just doesn't stand out as…read moremuch. It shares the same building with the Mitsuwa Market, so, of course, the shop is much smaller than the other ones out there, making it a bit more cramped. With this in mind, the books, stationery, gifts, and other goods here aren't as impressive as say a standalone Kinokuniya (common sense) or the ones that are located in malls. Or maybe I'm just spoiled by the options that I have in SoCal. It's not bad when you're in the area, but if you're a tourist and want a more comprehensive Kino experience, I would say your best bet is the Japantown SF location. However, it's still nice to stop by and see what cute stuff that they have.

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Entrance through Mitsuwa

Barnes & Noble Booksellers

3.6(471 reviews)

3.8 mi•West San Jose

I needed some books for two baby shower presents and I was surprised I was able to find these…read morehardcover baby books! Their Children's section was MASSIVE AND incredibly welcoming! I remember bringing my son to their story time, as a little boy- now he's 20, so he's out grown it, but I'm glad post pandemic, this event is still happening! I loved finding all the various authors and craft books and "how to" sets! They even had some science sets! The only drawback, I'd say was how the outside trash can was overflowing and there were flies all over. So I didn't walk by it. I'm sure that's going to attract the wrong type of attention, so that's the only reason why I'm giving them a 4 instead of 5 stars. However, everything within the book store was clean and organized. So I appreciated that. I'll be back, I'll just park away from the public trash can hee.

* Ambiance: Fairly quiet and a nice place to study, work, or unwind on a Friday night. Not many so…read moremake sure your devices are charged! * Café: Offers an assortment of pastries and sandwiches. * Selection: Includes a kids' section, with reading options for all ages. * Parking: Ample parking available. * Service: Staff are friendly, helpful, and apologetic about wait times. The only downside is limited staff on the floor--I had to go to the register to ask whether a book was in stock.

Vinyl back on display :)

Spinach & Feta Pretzel

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Recycle Bookstore

4.2(334 reviews)

2.8 mi

Can't go wrong with a thrifty book store. Located in downtown Campbell, Recycle Bookstore is a good…read moreplace to stop buttons for your fix of books. They have a large selection across different genres. You're sure to find something you like from children's books, spirituality, sociology, history... you'll be bound to find an interest. They offer books at new and discounted price if they have been previous read and traded in. When I visit, there is always a book intriguing to pick up. Gotta add to my personal library! Recycle Bookstore also provides merchandise such as tote bags, stationary, and more. It is perfect if you're looking for a gift or treating yourself to a haul. Staff is friendly.

Recycle Bookstore is a used and independent bookstore that started in 1967. The flagship store is…read morelocated in the Alameda Historic District and this second store in Downtown Campbell opened in early 2004. The flagship location has a bookstore cat named Emma and the Campbell store cat (Max) said goodbye in 2025. [Parking]: Easy parking with a couple of free parking garages (Second Street Parking Garage at 41 N 2nd St or another at the intersection of N 1st St & Orchard City Drive). I ended up with free street parking right next to the Second Street Parking Garage. [Selection]: The bookstore has a mixture of new and used books. To my surprise, there's a good selection of manga here. There is also large selection of children's books and other categories like business, mystery, thriller, etc. The bookstore was slightly less organized than other bookstores I have visited. [Selling Books]: The bookstore offers a selective book buying process available Tuesday - Saturday from 11 AM - 5 PM (bring books in by 4:30 PM). The bookstore offers a choice of cash or store credit based on the books the store takes. The categories of books the bookstore will not take are textbooks, computer books, encyclopedia sets, Reader's Digest, magazines/periodicals, hardback popular fiction/mystery (unless it's a current title), and single-issue comic books. The bookstore does not accept donations. [Other notes]: It was surprising to discover that the bookstore was open at 9:45 AM even though the store's opening time should have been 11:00 AM, but it probably opened early because of the Campbell Farmers Market. [Conclusion]: This is a solid all-around community bookstore.

5.5 mi•North San Jose, Newhall

Interior

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Books on local history: Frontier village book

Soyodo

4.4(26 reviews)

Soyodo is a place that feels deeply familiar and comforting to me. My parents used to come here…read moreoften, so every visit carries a sense of nostalgia and connection to home. Since Chinese painting and calligraphy are among my favorite hobbies, Soyodo has always been a meaningful place to find traditional Chinese painting supplies and guidebooks esp for maobi, painting flowers, landscapes, and ancient figures. I really appreciate that they also carry crafting supplies and classic Chinese literature, not just generic art books. Everything here feels rooted in tradition and care. The store also offers novels, children's books, Chinese New Year decor, vases, and small toys, which makes it feel like a cultural space rather than just a bookstore. On top of that, the pricing is very reasonable. I've even found books for as little as $2-4, which makes browsing and discovering new reads even more special. The owners are an older Chinese couple who are quiet, reserved, and genuinely kind. One of the things I cherish most about Soyodo is how peaceful and calm the store is. It's the kind of place where you can slow down, browse without pressure, and feel grounded. Stores like this are rare and I truly hope Soyodo continues to thrive. If you value culture, tradition, and supporting a small family-owned business, this is absolutely a place worth visiting and supporting.

The store has a large selection of Chinese calligraphy brushes, tools, Chinese novels and…read moretranslated Western -authored books. It also has herbal ai cao 艾草related products and other health tools , and other Chinese culture-related accessories.

New address as of Jan 2023

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Rasputin Music & Movies

3.4(364 reviews)

2.1 mi

Really cool and really big! Has a huge selection of pretty much everything! Including some cult…read moreclassics I was looking for! If you are looking for physical media this is the place! I scoured through the aisle. In the middle of it, I had to get a basket because I was over encumbered by all the things I wanted to buy. I ended up getting some Japanese horror films and a few TV box sets! Super excited to finally go and watch it all! Service was decent and the value of things are at a decent price! I was looking up prices and they are lower than online values. Excited to finally stop by this place! Will plan to go again!

Came to sell some DVD's and he let me know it would take about 20 minutes. It is huge inside with a…read morediscount clothing store next door. In just less than 20 minutes they gave me a lower than expected price for all my DVD's but I wanted to take them off my hands so I was glad they took it all.

My finds today

The line for RSD2025

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Outside

Spartan Bookstore

2.4(45 reviews)

2.4 mi•Downtown

•$$$

This book store inside the Student Union building sells more than just textbooks and writing…read morematerials. Visitors can shop for an array of merchandise including electronics, accessories, personal care products, snacks & beverages in the marketplace, and more... although I didn't find any campus posters. I enjoyed browsing the unique puzzles, games, and greeting cards, as well as the stationery and household items featuring awesome artwork and designs by Julia Gash. They also have baskets available for your shopping convenience. As a San Jose State alum, I came by this past Friday mainly to replace my old SJSU hooded sweatshirt which I purchased more than a decade ago when I was in grad school at the university. They offer a wide selection of clothing, taking up at least half the space on the ground floor. And I know it's the school color, but I wasn't ready for the blinding overload of blue when I first entered the shop. That didn't stop me from finding the perfect lightweight pullover hoodie, simple and cute, just my style. I really like the fabric of their apparel here, soft and smooth, quality breathable material. The purchase process was quick and easy, with friendly service, and parking was plentiful on E. San Fernando Street midday.

I don't know why this place has such bad reviews. Everything is pretty well stocked, clean, and…read moreorganized. Staff have all been great and helpful. Plenty of clothes and gear to rep SJSU. Prices might be steep, but that's expected.

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Lower level

Design by Julia Gash

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Entrance inside Student Union

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

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26 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

jackie L.

3 months ago

I used to enjoy this bookstore but no longer do. They promote Drag Queen story time now along with books that are not appropriate for small children. I have no problem with adults choosing to do what they want to do or be . Why expose small children to a grown man dressing like a queen. Why would anyone in their right mind think this is beneficial? I hope they have done a background check on these men. I asked several people downtown what they thought of this and they all thought it was disgusting. Bring back wholesome story times. Stories of policemen, firefighters, heroes, Jesus, hero animals anything but men dressing like a queen or princess. Kids these days wholesome things in their life not what you are promoting. This bookstore has been around a long time. I'm sorry it has changed from what I remember. Just because some in society like to go in this direction doesn't mean it's right. We will all have to give an account for our actions. read more

Alexis G.

10 years ago

Stumbled upon this very cute little book store while strolling through Willow Glen one day and I've been coming back ever since. My son loves browsing this store with me whenever I take him and more often then not we end up with something in our hands when we leave. Aside from books they also sell toys, various activities, stationary items, and more. Their selection isn't as big as some other big name book stores, but I think it adds a little extra charm to it personally. If you have kids I definitely recommend bringing them to this book store, they'll love it! read more

Jeannie C.

14 years ago

Hicklebees is the most amazing children's book store! In fact, it's more than a store, it's an experience. The walls are tattooed with notes and illustrations from famous authors, the shelves are stacked to the ceiling with amazing books and the staff can always give you the best recommendations. Since moving away from Willow Glen several years ago, I still make the 2 hour pilgrimage back to Hicklebees when i need a really good children's book for my kids. What a wonderful place! read more

Allison C.

9 years ago

This is one of the best children's' book-stores in San Jose. AS I know the owner does national TV slots on children's books. The staff can always recommend something that a child will appreciate, and these are good recommendations. There's a bathtub with cushions for children to read in and a train set to play with. My kids love to spend time more than one hour easily. There also plenty of books for adults and teen as well. read more

Christine N.

Elite 26 All-Star

1676

503

9282

11 months ago

We absolutely love this local bookstore in San Jose! We're so happy we found it. There's such a great selection of books and we always enjoy walking through the store. We found a lot of great books we didn't expect. The best part is that we're able to request books to be ordered. The staff is always so friendly and helpful. Definitely our go to bookstore in the neighborhood! read more

jordana h.

15 years ago

My kids love this bookstore, they spend hours of hours, prices are not bad at all, and they have a LOT of books, even for adults too, so now i can take my kids and while they are looking at their books at look at some for me, the people that works there they really know about kids books, hopefully this store stays in business so i can bring me grand kids too read more

Loyd K.

12 years ago

I love Hicklebee's Children's Book StoreThere is so much to do here, it's full of Mexican culture, a beautiful area with authentic Mexican food, tons of restaurants, you may see Mexican dancers and Mariachis serenading. Lots of souveniers and gifts. Very colorful, festive and friendly. A lovely place to spend a whole day (or two). read more

Alta W.

11 years ago

Gone right here a few days ago. Allow me to just say... Incredible! !! ! They may have from chocolate to deluxeanimals and pillows, and so on. If you don't but anything, its just a sweet experience even. I'm considering obtaining a carry as well as an elephant lmao. They're so awesome. read more

Romana T.

11 years ago

The buyers for this store get full credit for being awesome. Best and most well-thought out children's book selection in the Bay Area. My kids love going in this store and checking out all the beautifully displayed books. read more

Ivana H.

18 years ago

I thought it was the best place to take my child. I wish there were more books though. There is something that you dont get from a bigger store like B&N. I would say it is SOO worth it to go here. My daughter loves it. read more

amar k.

16 years ago

books and that for kids, makes my life easy, satudary I can take them for a walk and then to books store kids love, all love it and my life gets easy thanks to the store read more

Grace Q.

18 years ago

Both Josh and i really love this bookstore. they have great friendly staff that are so helpful. They always give great recommendation when we come in. read more

E G.

14 years ago

Excellent selection and helpful staff. I can always rely on their recommendations. Painless shopping. Always nice to support local businesses. read more

Aaron C.

18 years ago

I recently bought my son's first book here and he loved it very much. I know for sure that this is the place ill be going back to, indefinitely. read more

Alyssa S.

18 years ago

This store is a great store, it is very well organized, and children love it! I got a madeline book signed there by the author.

Tracy R.

198

9 years ago

I loved how many varieties of books you had. Loved your seating area. Would like to come back.

Sandi R.

18 years ago

My kids LOVE coming here. This is such a Willow Glen gem and she brings is great speakers!

Kyler B.

10 years ago

Cute place with a good selection of books and coordinating toys. Great place to get a gift

Emily Y.

Elite 15

328

193

15 years ago

So many darling little nooks for reading the little ones a book! :)

Mary Anne O.

16 years ago

EXCELLENT selection!!!!! I just get lost in there!!!! Amazing!!!

Hicklebee's - bookstores - Updated November 2026

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Beyond Text Bookstore is what happens when a bookstore has personality- and fully leans into it…read more The selection is thoughtfully chosen, priced right with something for every kind of reader, and then there's the fun stuff: witty stickers, clever little finds, and those "I didn't know I needed this" moments tucked everywhere. Tanya absolutely lives up to it. she's warm, engaging, and clearly invested. Her personal touch is all over the shop - from the creative, artistic decor to the way she offers suggestions that feel like they were picked just for you. Come in, browse a little longer, admire the artistic, creative decor, and support a local gem - before you default to the chain store down the street. Trust me, this is the better detour.

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If you love blind boxes or cute things in general, this store is a MUST!…read more There were so many cute blind boxes and toys - something for everyone. The store is also very spacious and organized. I was told the that they allow trading with some series, so definitely ask! Rosabelle was super kind and helpful. Loved their energy! Pricing was fair and comparable to prices I see online. I really value shopping for toys in person, so it's definitely worth it for me.

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