New name...same store. The new Jelly's with a new name brings back a ton of memories from when I was a kid. Love this place is still around! The selection of vinyl records, CDs and comic books is varied. You can spend hours here sorting through their stock just to see what you could possibly find. Many treasures and if you can sift through their stock. There is an organized chaos to their offerings. Some items require staff assistance and since they don't hover..you need to ask for what you need. Prices for the used books are okay. Love they have tons of sheet music for musicians or dabblers. They carry lotsa cool little action figures as well as funko pops! Parking is located in the front. Very easy to find. read more

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This is a little late and might be a little moot since they're closing on 9/21. But I didn't even know about this place until I saw an article that they were closing. Run by the same people who did Jelly's. I feel like anyone in the 80s and 90s will know them. It's pretty much the spiritual successor! I got hit by a wave a nostalgia stepping into the place. Tons of old comics and vinyl records, lots of books of various subjects lining their shelves. Even have figurines and CDs, DVDs and the like. They are currently having a closing sale with lots of things marked down 50% or more! If you have a chance make sure you stop by. I wish they could have continued to stay in business read more

It's like going back in time... I've always seen this shop from driving by and have always been curious of what it has to offer and today I finally got a chance to give them a peek. Located in Coral Commercial Center which is right in the midst of SALT in Kaka'ako. Coral Commercial Center is a tiny shopping area with it's own non-gated parking space is very unique and makes it very accessible to places like Idea's Music and Books. Walking in you'd never expect to see so many collection of different types and forms of music. Short of seeing eight track there are the load of vinyls, cassette and cds while listening to oldies music playing really brought me back to my "time" gosh what nostalgia. As you walk to the back of the store there's a bunch of comic and books, though I was here just to browse as I don't have any cassette or CD players I did enjoy seeing various vintage items. Lovely place with lots of free parking just steps away makes this place something you just can't resist. Thank you! read more

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If you have ever been to Jelly's new and used Cards, Comics, Games, Books and Record store, you will find two familiar faces, Norm and Shirely as they teamed up and opened this wonderful place called "Idea's Music and Books." By the name you would think that all they sold was music and books. Well that's not the case. They also sell comics, pogs, postcards (from around the world), DVD's phonograph players and more. They have both new and used records, CDs, Dvd's, books and so forth. It's like stepping back into time as there is so many things to look at. I went to sell some books and I ended up buying some CD's. I believe they buy books on Monday's and Thursday's and music on Wednesday. I would call before you come down as there are times when the buy isn't there and they don't buy things. So call before you go down. However if you are looking for some classic music, your favorite self-help book, come on down as they probably have it or you might stumble upon some other goodies like I did. If there is a used CD or record you were thinking about buying and wanted to listen to it, you can ask them to play it for you. Hey are you looking for a good place to start a date??? Come and brows through things, get a good laugh on memory lane and head down across the street to Kakaako and check out one of the many places to eat and drink at. read more

I love, love, love me a bookstore; and the disappointing truth is, I want to love Idea's Music and Books more than I actually do -- but fact of the matter is, there have been a few things that bring down my experience with this particular store. My only real complaint would be about the organization, or perhaps, lack of it. Listen, I've been to some pretty chaotic book stores around the country, but the best ones are those that tend to have a playful and meaningful flow to the "disorganization" and/or overflow of product. Whereas at Idea's, there are half empty shelves next to overstocked shelves, while over filled carts stand nearby... with the titles often not even visible. Blocked titles are blocked sales, period. Where the store does succeed is the large selection of titles, with mostly low to fair prices. There have been some titles where the full sales price is expected, but that tends to be reserved for new/collector titles. I always end up leaving with something in my hand; but again, I can only imagine how much bigger my collection would be if so many titles weren't hidden. Service is... non offensive... depending on who's around. There's an older gentleman who seems indifferent to everyone; but again, he's not rude or mean, just, neutral... honestly, I can kind of dig it. I like books more than people, so... same? There's also an aunty who works there that is very conversational and seems genuinely curious about what books I'm getting. So, you know... just don't come in expecting anything in regard to employee engagement and you might end up pleasantly surprised. But yeah, I don't know why I'm more critical of Idea's, but I think it's because I've been spoiled by used book stores and get disappointed by lackluster aesthetics and organization. read more

This is the old Jelly's record and books. Too bad they are closing on Sept. 21, 2025. It's like finding treasure in there. I grabbed some OG Rap CD's like NWA. naughty By Nature, LL Cool J. read more

We came in on a Thursday afternoon (1.05.2023). I brought my mom here to buy some vinyls for her phonograph that I'd bought her for Christmas. I had heard this place was like Jelly's before, so I was excited to check it out. They've got tons of treasures to look through from vinyls, cd's, books, and more. Not only did my mom find some of what she'd been looking for, I found a copy of a Bible I had been eyeballing for only $20, normally costing almost $50, and in almost brand new condition. I totally recommend coming to Idea's for all kinds of used media treasures. Unlike some places in this area, across from Salt Kakaako, where it can be difficult to find parking, or you have to pay for parking.... Idea's is in a building across the street that has its own parking lot with ample stalls reserved specifically for their business! That's also a total plus for me, as I'm not one that gets too thrilled about coming to this part of town. We'll definitely be back again for more! read more

Idea's Music and Books - $20 score. - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Ideas is run by Norm from Jelly's; if you're into music and reading, then you remember the various locations of this establishment. Records (new and used) have been making a comeback but I primarily go for used CD's. I have an older vehicle hence the need for the trusty and hardy music CD. Picked up a few Metallica (great driving music) CD's over the last several months. This afternoon, I purchased greatest hits from The Stylistics and The Intruders; luv that Philly Soul. read more

Idea's Music and Books - Interior of Ideas - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I was struggling with finding parking for that other music store in the area because it was almost Christmas. Luckily it led me to stumble upon Ideas. This is what a music store should be: mix of new and old, memorabilia, books, and knowledgeable staff. They also play a great mix of music in the store. I'll be sure to come here for crate digging, books by local authors, and perusing rare and collectible toys. Also check out the eclectic mix of postcards, posters, and much more near the registers and the front door. read more

Idea's Music and Books - Glimpse at today's haul. - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Previously owned books, music, movies, and more! I had never heard of Idea's before my friend from first grade mentioned it. She had to say it a couple of times before I figured out what it was. One of her missions on this trip from Virginia is to find vinyl records for her daughter - mostly Hawaiian music and songs that we listened to when we were her daughter's age... Haha! Using GPS, we found Idea's in a strip mall between Singer Sewing Machine and One Love Church on Auahi Street. There's a free parking lot right in front! We entered the neatly organized store and easily found the Hawaiian sections for music and books. I even saw an area for comics and movies! My friend found some really great deals! She bought so many records that the cashier gave her a tote bag for free! I think the bag is usually about $6. Whoa! Score! Anyway, I highly recommend Idea's if you are looking for second hand movies, books, and music! Just bring your own bag in case you're just getting a couple of items! read more

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The lady working there has a poor attitude. Their stuff is overpriced. I'm surprised they can keep the lights on.

This store has so many books, records, DVDs, comics, anime, etc crammed into this store you might feel slightly claustrophobic! Not that I am complaining lol. I absolutely loved it! Being there, I felt like I had walked through time and entered a giant treasure trove haha! They have so many VINTAGE items here. I really enjoy books from the past, and this store is a collectors delight! The prices are a bit higher than other used bookstores, probably since they have items you won't find anywhere else though. I will definitely be back multiple times to browse what I didn't get to see this time around. read more

Idea's Music and Books - Front entrance. - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I LOVE THIS PLACE. if you like comics and cds like this cool fella (me) you will absolutely love this place. In fact i went there today and purchased 3 cds which i obviously added to my really cool and upcoming discogs collection and it was the highlight of my day. Hey i have an idea, GO TO THIS PLACE. The vibes? immaculate. The cds? IMMACULATE. The comics? immaculate. The posters, the books, the vinyls? 10s ACROSS THE BOARD LADIES AND GENTS. read more

Probably it's because this store brings such a nostalgic feel of Jelly's and Tower Records that makes me want to roam in this store as long as I can because you honestly can get lost in exploring the entire store. I ventured here to kill time before my appointment that was nearby and as soon as I stepped in, I zeroed in on how the store was bursting at the seams with vinyl albums, CD's, and cassette tapes. As I walked towards the back, to the left side was a section for collectible comics. The rest of the back was overflowing with books that I'm pretty sure you won't find at Barnes and Nobles as some of the books were classics to include collectors items. I wanted to buy a book but I couldn't settle on one and I was pressed for time. All I know is that this isn't my last time visiting because I'll be back to take my time in the book section. Note: Their children's section is extensive if you're looking for your favorite childhood books Recommend: Highly Staff: Friendly and non-intrusive read more

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This is one of the best record stores I've been to, it has so many great picks and books! 10/10 recommend. read more

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Here I was thinking all the used music and boom stores went out of business and I come across this gem. My friend took my family here because he wanted to look for an album. The lady behind the counter instantly recognized him and I noticed she knew almost all the customers that came in. The storefront is discreet, but look for the One Love ministry sign, they are right next door. Couldn't browse very long since I had my baby and had to watch her curious hands. If I was alone, I'd easily spend two or three hours here. An array of books, CDs, albums, comic books and DVDs for any media fan. Something for everyone. Prices are fair and all items are in pretty good quality. Will stop by again very soon. read more

Idea's Music and Books - What you see when you first walk in.. - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Nice place to browse around. They have good sales. Check their out their specials by checking out their website

My family and I stopped here to find some books on Hawai'i history, poetry, and just random fiction to read on the plane ride back. We all left with 2-3 books! They had a whole section devoted to Hawai'ian history and information, as well as some reference books. I wish I could spend all day here! They also have CDs, records, and comics, and some collectible posters which I wish I could've looked through. Reasonable prices, the only thing I wish is if the shelves were a little neater, some of the books were stacked in front of the ones on the back of the shelf so they were a little hard to find. Also they are right next to a little shopping center with restaurants, you can definitely spend all afternoon here! read more

Best used bookstore around. I recommend you find free parking because you can easily spend an afternoon here. It can be claustrophobic and overwhelming. I like to start with the CDs. While nothing is on sale you can definitely find something that's unavailable on iTunes. Let me tell you, this store has books on every subject. Very reasonable prices. read more

Great service, lovely people. Good selection of older music (50-80's) at very reasonable prices

I love Idea's Music and Book store! Located across from ARVO and SALT Kaka'ako. My husband remembers going to Jelly's (old name) with his mom when he was younger so he finally took me to Idea's. We decided to go for Black Friday to see what kind of deals they'll have. At first I didn't have a record player yet so on Black Friday I purchased my first Victrola Portable vinyl record player. The next day we went to Ideas and they had a sidewalk sale. $1 selected vinyl records.. We scored a Chaka Khan, Nat King Cole and a couple other ones.. I got some of my favorite vinyl records at Ideas. The prices were very affordable and the quality of the discs were like new! Super dope store and I don't think there's another store on the island that can beat it. I think I might go broke from blowing all my money on these classic records! Some of my favorites consists of: The Beatles, Elton John, Hall & Oates, Jimi Hendrix, Mo-town and Earth Wind & Fire!!! I can spend hours in this store going through a bunch of 70's, 80's music etc. They kinda sorta have a 90's section but it's not as big as the older music. Although they have old vinyl records, they also sell brand new ones as well. The prices range from $30+ for the new ones. The older ones are a lot cheaper, but some can get pricey depending on what it is. read more

Formerly Jelly's, Idea's Music and Books is one of the only independent (and maybe only) book and media stores on O'ahu. Located on Auahi Street in the little strip mall, it's a part of Kaka'ako and adjacent to SALT, meaning it's very easy to stop by during all the events in the area! The store has been around a while, so the have a lot of stock that is constantly updated as people sell to the store. Idea's has: books, CDs, vinyl, cassettes, video games of all types, roleplaying games, comics, toys and collectibles, DVDs, and Blu-rays. Everything they have is some degree of used; they make sure to inspect all items, but it's best to do so yourself before buying. One negative I often find (which is a general problem for used paper items in Hawaii) is light mold spots on the books; be sure to look for yellowing and smell. If you were familiar with the old layout it's mostly the same with some light reorganization. This is an independent and local store, so you know the money is staying here. You'll also pay a slight premium for having a physical bookstore; some items are overpriced for condition or rarity. Also, be sure to check multiple copies of the same book as sometimes the price tags are different depending on copy. Overall, what makes this place fun is that you never know what you'll find. It's a treasure hunt for items, so rummage around! Be sure to note their sale prices, deals, and sidewalk sales. read more

I found several of my ancient poetry, plays, and history books here that are difficult to find and at reasonable prices. A few were even cheaper than if ordered them on Amazon. read more

Kind of a cool place to find some used books, especially on Hawaiiana. I found Na Na I Ke Kumu, Vol. 1 and 2 while just browsing as well as songs from the [US] Civil War. Used books cost $8.95/ea it seemed. The music all looked new, and CDs were priced at $15 which seems on par with normal retailers. On the plus side, they carried quite a selection including older albums. I had no problem walking in here with a modest sized backpack. read more

A good place to sell books so that they can be recycled. Wasn't selling any collector's book so didn't expect much so was happy with what was offered and received a reasonable explanation why not all were accepted. Will return to both buy and sell read more

I would give this place a 10/5 in my personal opinion. Ideas, Music and Books has the most special place in my heart. This place has everything you could wish for, but they also have the most welcoming staff who are all passionate about everything in store. Norman and Shirley are always the absolute best! Since the early days of high school, I would come in to buy a book and to browse their records. If I ever had a question they were always ready to help. As someone who loves books and vinyl, I cannot name a better place. I have found some of the best poetry books, fiction and mystery books here as well. Everything in store seems to have character and isn't a cookie cutter book that would come from the likes of Barnes and Nobles. As for their vinyl selection, they have a new vinyl selection right at the front of the store. In this section, there's everything from the Beatles, classic rock, modern hip hop and oldies. Walking through the selection, they also have used vinyl from the 50's- 80's, Hawaiian, Jazz, Easy Listening, hip hop, rock, classical and international. As a collector of Elvis Vinyls, I have also found a decent amount here as well. They also have a section with CD's, cassette tapes, comic books and DVD's. Although I haven't browsed this section as much, they have a decent selection covering over a third of the store in total. They also have side walk sales on weekends. I would highly recommend going to one if you have the chance. Parking: There are designated parking stalls labels IDEAS in the parking lot out front. If you park in one of these stalls and don't directly go to Ideas, Music and Books, the parking attendants are bound to come after you. read more

Idea's is what Jelly's comic store used to be. I only found out because of Yelp event. It's located behind SALT at Kakaako. Parking is free but make sure you park on the marked stall that says Idea's. If you're looking for old, used, music and books this is probably the place for you. They even have cassette tapes and many records. read more

What a great store. Used books, DVDs, CDs and tapes, vinyl records and 45s, and comic books. Delightful collection where it'd be fun to browse for hours. Prices of books are pretty high though. Like I would have thought some used paperback would be $2 but it'd be $8. If something is hard to find though, it'd probably be worth it. read more

Idea's Music and Books - "Lucy is not for sale." - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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My first time at this location. I'm a long time patron of Jelly's, actually from way back when they were across Tower records where the big brown insurance building is now. I also went to the 404 Piikoi location 4-5 times a week because my shop was in the same building and after work I'd wander around the aisle looking for used vinyl. I have very fond memories of filing through all the vinyl and grabbing a stack of records and sitting on the floor and inspecting each one. I seriously spent hours at a time going through records. Well, I recently unearthed my late other half's turntable from the attic and set up the old sound system to do needle drops that I upload to YouTube. Fun! So I wanted to see what kind of used vinyl I could find at jelly's. Little did I know Jelly's is no longer around but the only location left is now called Idea's. Stepping in all those memories rushed back. The vinyl selection is much smaller but there is still a lot to look through. I went in with some specific titles in mind but no luck so I guess I'll have to visit every few weeks to check. :) Although, I did leave with one 12" single...Afrika Bambaataa / John Lydon's Time Zone-World Destruction. :) One thing I was happy to see was Norm Winter in the store. I remember talking to him about music all those years ago. I soooo wanted to say to him how much I miss Radio Free Hawaii but he was busy talking to someone else about a rare Elvis 7" single they just got in...typical that he was chatting about music, he is such a big fan of music and that's why he's carried on an great music store for so many years. You rock Norm! read more

Still the best record store in Honolulu. Times have changed and prices have gone up but the feeling of finding a great used lp or 12" single hasn't . The recent high demand for vinyl, cassettes and all things analog have no doubt influenced the rise in prices. Norm has moved along with the times like a true business man. Although his prices have risen, there's no denying the gems that pop up in the racks. I've been pleasantly surprised more than a couple times in the last few months shopping there. Originally known as Jelly's, I've been fortunate to frequent all of the old locations from adolescent times.Pi'ikoi, keeaumoku, market city, pearl kai and aiea. After Jellys came radio free music on kapiolani blvd. Idea's music is just the next in a succession of great music/comic/bookstores curated by the eccentric genius known as Norm read more

As a self-described bibliophile (One who collects or enjoys books) and melomaniac (one who enjoys music), walking into a Book/Music store is a delectable temptation I am only too happy to give myself to with reckless abandon. Taking a stroll into Idea's Books and Music is like stepping back into my teenage years of the 80's, where thumbing through new and used records filled my lungs with dust, and my heart with palpable joy. Imagine my thrill when walking through the front door, with colored vinyl decorating the windows like pressed candy spinning in midair, the illumination of vintage vinyl, cd's, and 78's in alphabetized bins of glory! Aisles of Rock, Country, Soul, Hawaiian Classics, and R&B fill the front half of the store, while the back half of the store is dedicated to books. There were several genres represented, including a pretty flush young adult and kid's area. I bought a Nancy Drew Mystery Stories, book 1, "The Secret of the Old Clock" for my daughter. For the comic book aficionado, you are still in good hands. Boxes and boxes to comb through to your young at heart's content, and videos too! This is also where I found the Nick Cave one night only film event on a local flyer. Social media can never quite replicate the intimate experience of a flyer in a music store. The décor is "organized, bordering on hoarding", but this is just the sort of way that music collectors and book collectors like it. I need to get into it, take my time, perusing each album, opening their jackets and sliding out the vinyl to inspect it for overt scratches or warping. Shirley is the manager and couldn't be more friendly and kind. She kindly offered to exchange a couple of my albums I had bought before that looked perfect, but had scratches on them. This time, I was wise and utilized their option of listening to the albums first on their record player with ear phones. Blondie, English Beat, and B-52's were once again going to grace my vinyl collection! read more

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*Short version-Norm (beret wearing man) is rude and can't be bothered with silly things like customer service and friendliness. Prices are high! Take your business elsewhere! *Long version-Terrible experience! No greeting of customers going on in here. You're more of an inconvenience. The owner (??) Norm is a real piece of work. I heard him arguing with a customer over the cost of an item they called to inquire about. He proceeds to yell at them and slam the phone. I should have left at that point but stupid me, I opted to stay. So I look through the dvd section and I notice the prices are pretty steep for old movies. Breakfast Club was about $7, looked online found a brand new copy for less than $5. Prices were high for music as well. Norm never asks if you need help or anything......whatever! *The guy in the comic section however was FABULOUS! Very nice man who took the time to answer a customer's questions and was very engaging. Shout out to that guy! Time to checkout and Norm is at the register. I'm standing in front of him and he doesn't acknowledge me once. I'm like ok maybe he is doing something, so I just stand there. I figure I better say something or I'll be there ALL DAY! So I say "I'm ready," and he finally looks up and rings me up. I'm so sorry I bothered you with my wanting to buy things! He only tells me my total $25 (for 2 cds) no "thank you" of course. I pay and quickly get out of there. What's that guys problem? He just kills the vibe! TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO ANOTHER RECORD STORE! read more

This place is a true treasure! I probably should not share my review because some of you might pay a visit and purchase some things that I might want! The wife and I stopped by yesterday and spent almost $200 on oldies but goodies. 99% of the items are in pristine condition. BONUS: there is a "listening station" for those of us that want to purchase an album but are unsure of the quality of the wax. It's an amplifier with a turntable and a set of headphones... awesome! I can't speak too much about the comics section, but my wife did hold up "Caper the Friendly Ghost" and "Richie Rich" comic books; I have not seen those comic books ion over 40 years! Plan on going only if you have an hour or two to spare... and a few bucks to invest in some quality music, movies, soundtracks, books... even laserdiscs! For me, the best part is the fact that thew shopkeeper left my wife alone to peruse the inventory. If you're like me, you might not know what you want, but you'll know when you find it. Again, this place is a true treasure! read more

I love this store! First found it while participating in the Hawaii challenge, a scavenger hunt around the Kaka'akao/Ward/Ala Moana area, a few months ago. Have been back a few times to check out the great selection of records, CDs, tapes, comics, and books. Could spend hours in here just looking around and having a laugh. Finally made my first purchase tonight and got 4 great books and a CD for under $25. Awesome! Thanks for the great sale during the Honolulu Night Market (every 3rd Saturday of the month across the street) and for staying open late. Workers are friendly too! They take credit cards and have free parking out front. NOT TO BE MISSED! read more

Idea's Music and Books - Always deals and stay open late when the Honolulu Night Market is going on the 3rd Saturday of the month! - Vinyl Records Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I love the semi-organized chaos of this place. Used books/records/comics, stuff sorta in section and sort of organized by author, or topic, or something else? But that's what these shops are supposed to be like. The thrill of the hunt. The mustiness. read more

This place was pretty dope. It is a new and used book, comic and music store. They had a good selection of new LPs, used CDs and the largest selection of used cassettes I have ever seen in a record store. The organization is kind of odd at first but once you poke around it makes sense. A lot of stuff is done by era. I found a number of awesome tapes. My wife found some good LPs. The used book section seemed massive too. All and all, I found it to be a great store. read more

One of the better kinds of physical record stores left. Solid variety of CDs and vinyl, some priced to sell and some priced to sit for another decade. It's better than the kind of shop where everything is so expensive it sits as a museum to better record stores of the past. Definitely worth visiting. The person working the store was incredibly nice and willing to negotiate on something. read more

Looking for that special vinyl LP or CD? Take a chance and see if you might find it here. Idea's is one of the last places you can find your collectible LP,CD, or comic book that you always wanted. You can spend hours here if you enjoy reading and listening to music. Centrally located with lots of free parking and the staff are very friendly. read more

I had a blast looking through the large collection of records and my mother is a book addict so this was like our heaven. I was able to find many of my favorite records to add to my collection. The staff was very nice and the owner even threw in a Christmas bonus in the form of 7, 10" 45s from the 50-60s which were gems. The records were all very reasonably priced. The only reason I left off one star is that all the records needed a thorough cleaning and the covers were not the best condition and one record has something on it I have not yet attempted to get off. So you have to be prepared to restore the record yourself. In the end I have very satisfied with my purchase and will come back for more! read more

Sold dvds here.. efficient and friendly service! Plenty of cds, dvds and books and posters.. a throwback to the 70's