Back when I was working in Waltham, I kept tabs on More Than Words since they had a location there and I was interested in getting involved. They have such an amazing mission, and I highly recommend people look into this nonprofit to learn more on how to support! This review is for their Boston store--an open, spacious thrift and book store. They have a great selection, from affordable everyday pieces to higher-end clothing (for both women and men), plus old-timey knickknacks, home goods, shoes, costume jewelry, toys, and new packaged gifts. There's so much to rummage through, and it doesn't have that musty thrift store feel--it's very well kept. We bought a bunch of things: glass cake display I had as a kid (that doubles as a fruit trifle dish), an abstract dress that was basically new (originally over $200, I snagged for $40), a metal dragon bracelet, and more. The staff is fun--they seem like friends with each other, and a few even made me feel like we were becoming friends too, loll. It's a very cool atmosphere and well staffed. If no one's at the register, there's a bell you can ring and they'll be right there. I love this place--it is one of my highlights of the South End area! read more

See all

Wonderful people doing great work. This bookshop is has so many good finds and the money is reinvested into the community. They have clothes, housewares, tickets. Please support this community center store! read more

Such a great hidden gem! Did not realize it was more than just a place to drop off items. I found an Anne Klein purse that just had to come home with me. You should visit if you're looking for clothing for the family, kitchen items, and more and of course books. read more

They took 10 boxes of books - which made a big difference for us. Very easy to work with.

I highly recommend this used bookstore. Well-organized displays of books, spacious, clean, and very pleasing layout (how often is that the case with a bookstore?!). Books are reasonably priced (most I checked the prices on were $7-$8 for like-new hardcover). I found several books I wanted, all in new or almost new condition, which seems to be mostly what they stock. The music section alone is a remarkable collection of books. Fiction section, although not huge, was also of a diverse selection. The staff is very and friendly and helpful, and let me give a special shout-out to Jocelyn for all the assistance she provided on a recent visit. They also carry some previously owned clothing, and other gift items, although I was sorry not to have more time to browse those items. All it's all for a good cause. Will be back. read more

More Than Words - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This book store we came across while just walking around the area. I was with three friends and one of them wanted to come chck this store out and glad we did. This book store does not only sell books but an array of other products too like: puzzles, clothes, records, games and more. We had fun browsing the store and our friend bought a record or two. Its a very spacious store and great to walk around in. They have a cute kids section in the front where it's geared for younger readers to enjoy books and games. I did not interact with any staff but they seemed to be nice. I would deff come back here if ever in the area. read more

See all

Such a cute bookstore! I can't help to buy myself a birthday gift from the 'blind date' area! read more

More Than Words - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

See all

Good non-profit; however it takes so long for them to process a check Donation. I doubt very much I will Donate money again.

More than words is more than books! .Great location for thrifting curated pre-owned clothing, accessories and home goods, vinyl and more.

Had small window on Sunday ; called to arrange drop off; easy direction to drop off at garage door in alley due to being short staffed; btw MTE does awesome work employing young people facing serious challenges in Boston area. read more

The books were unique and has a wide selection. The lady behind the counter was quite rude and offputting, which made the experience less than ideal and positive. read more

great and amazing. You'll find more than just books there's plenty of stuff you didn't know you wanted

Amazing. Inclusive, meaningful and a readers dream. This bookstore and it's mission is so important. I much rather shop here than a Barnes and Noble. Every time you shop here your money goes to empowering the the local youth. Lots of book options, used and new! I also really love their gifting section. read more

See all

What a great bookstore with a fantastic cause! A varied selection comfortable spots to read if you are so inclined to see if the book you are perusing is up to snuff for ya *wink, wink. Prices were affordable for my addiction LOL Service was courteous and helpful. Respectfully Reviewed read more

More Than Words - Great collection of books about #titletown this place is a career haven for at risk youth - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I received the wrong book. I reached out to them, with photos of the incorrect book, and said I would return it. I ordered "The colors of the world" and was sent "Design for retail". They didn't do anything about it. After three attempts I gave up. Bad customer service. read more

We had our wedding here and it was incredible. We had 200 guests and had the entire event (ceremony, dinner, and dancing) in the space - we knew this would be logistically challenging but Liz assured us that we could make it work. Liz was also extremely helpful and accommodating in terms of securing the required licenses (she helped us get our liquor license from the city). When it came to the actual event, it was a dream come true - we definitely used every inch of space they had and the team was kind and wonderful and professional. All our guests thought the venue was amazing. We loved having our wedding here, what a magical experience! read more

Love this bookstore and love their mission. Definitely support them in any way that you can. Awesome aesthetic as well. Wish they had men's clothes too tho! read more

More Than Words is an incredible organization. I've volunteered here multiple times with the group One Brick Boston and have also been in as a regular book-buying customer. This nonprofit is unique and has a positive impact. The young people in the program learn how to work, being promoted through the ranks and getting more responsibilities as they demonstrate strong work ethic. The program also builds in time for them to better themselves, whether that is to study for their GED or manage their personal finances. As a volunteer, you get to learn more about the organization straight from the youth. You then work alongside them, scanning and pre-sorting books to be sold in the store/online or donated further. There are SO MANY books, the majority being sold online, and if you're flexible in what you're going to read next, you can really find some gems. There are a variety of genres from biographies to sci fi, classics to young adult. And the prices! Paperbacks are around $4 and hard covers are a bit over $5. If you go on a sale day, you may even find some steals for $1 or a 2-for-1 deal. I'm happy to support this organization and the youth that it helps empower. And if I get some great new reads from it, there's really nothing better! read more

More Than Words - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Cannot recommend this bookstore highly enough! It is an amazing bookstore with an incredibly mission. It is also an excellent venue for events. I had my wedding here and it was perfect! The guests all commented on how beautiful the venue was. The event itself was seamless and the staff were incredible in the lead up and on the day. If you are looking for great books and event space, definitely go to MTW!! read more

I have met some obnoxious people in my time but the people at this book store who answer the phone were by far the worst. In essence, I received through USPS on 11/25/24 to my home in Florida, a book I never ordered and never would order based probably on my disdain for graffiti "artists" entitled "The Art of Spray Paint". In the package was also a shipping/order sheet showing the order was placed with them 11/14 through eBay Stores by a customer in Texas. On 11/26 I called More Than Words in Boston (oddly the return address on the outside shipping label that was printed with my name and address was out of Vancouver, WA) to see how they wished to handle the issue and to alert them that a customer who paid for it would not get it unless something could be worked out. The first rep said "what do you want us to do?" and then placed me on hold. I called back and the second obnoxious rep said it was two days before Thanksgiving (whatever that has to do with anything) and again I was placed on hold. Both mumbled their names which made it difficult to understand but I do have them if needed. I called a third time and this time reached voicemail since they obviously recognized my number and refused to answer. I let what I felt was a very appropriate message excoriating them for how I was being treated when all I wanted to do was ensure their customer got what they paid for. Interestingly, when typing this review, they called me but when I answered they obviously recognized my voice and hung up! So much for being professional. At this point the book is going in the garbage. I did not order it and More Than Words could clearly care less that they effectively ripped off a customer who paid for it. read more

More Than Words Boston is kind of out of the way on E. Berkeley St., but they are a non-profit that does good work ("empowers youth who are in the foster care system, court involved, homeless, or out of school to take charge of their lives by taking charge of a business") while they run a used bookstore. They have a story time for the kiddies on Saturdays starting sometime between 11am and noon - they'll start whenever there seems to be a good sized audience ready and waiting. They have hours Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30am - 6pm, and on Sundays 10:30am - 4pm. I volunteered there one Saturday, helping them to organizing their paperbacks into a few new categories, and found the youth working there that day to be polite and friendly. I figure that More Than Words is well worth supporting. :) read more

See all

Pre covid review: I volunteered and went to an event here within a week of one another. The event was really well set up and the teens that work there do a great job with introductions (when volunteering I learned that they set up goals and some have public speaking as that). The store itself is really well set up as well and incredibly clean. Volunteering here is a great opportunity to see what people submit as donations and help a non-profit organize. read more

Excellent service...I was just there to drop off sturdy boxes, and I was glad they accepted them!

cozy space and decor, chairs and tables at your disposal for brief chilling. great, like-new condition of used books at a fraction of retail price - plus random 50% off sale every so often! fun selection of books in various genres including hobby/skill books. very polite and responsive staff. supremely worthy cause. definitely deserves our support. go check it out! only down side: zero parking in the area. lot in back for donation drop-off only (or park at your own risk at after office hours, maybe). function rooms available for rent. read more

This place is awesome! Well-decorated and welcoming store with excellent assortment of fiction and non-fiction. Unlike many used bookstores, which sell almost anything, this selection is clearly curated with an emphasis on current, popular, and acclaimed authors. Plus, a small selection of audio books, vinyl records, and assorted gifts (I bought a pair of Conscious Step socks). They also host events - there was a small concert going on in the back room tonight. Most importantly, the store has an important social mission, providing jobs and training to youth who need it. Great store, great selection, great mission! If you need parking, just grab a space under the I-93 overpass across from the Troy building entrance - it's just a 2-3 minute walk from there. read more

More Than Words - Entrance with vintage bicycle as a sign - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

See all

One of my new favorite places in the city! A friends and I stopped in on our way to SoWa market, and we had to tear ourselves away from spending the entire evening here. Perks include: - space for speakers and a good range of authors stopping in - amazing books for gift lovers, including book themed spices like "Are you there God, it's me, marjoram" and sweet socks - a fabulous spread of books, with easy to understand pricing and easy to browse organization - room to sit but also space to walk (the critical balance for any bookstore!) They fill a huge gap in the neighborhood and I'm so glad they're there. PSA: I find the walk from Tufts Medical Center is the most efficient route here via T. read more

Best of many worlds..jobs for youth, getting books into new hands and recycling. Great customer service! read more

I love what this place is doing for social justice, recycling, and literacy promotion, and also think they have a great book selection for really reasonable prices. They also had a fun gift selection for those not as inclined towards books (bless their hearts). Their hours are great - we stopped by after dinner. Customer service was on point. read more

Really cool yet somehow warm and fuzzy. Visit and you'll know what I mean! More than a bookstore, this is really a youth empowerment nonprofit. If you are still not sold, they also have unbelievable prices. read more

I think that this is a "your results may very" type of bookstore depending on the sort of books you're looking for, and the sort of deal you're trying to find. They have a huge variety of books, many of which are new releases. New releases are priced at $15, with all other books being priced at $8 for paperback, and $9 for hardcovers. This can result in great deal when picking up a $30 novel for cheap, but can also result in scenarios where you're paying full price for a used book, which may or may not be in good condition, which is also not considered in the price. read more

So amazing to find an independently owned and operated, charming bookstore in the days of Amazon. Prices are incredibly reasonable, atmosphere is lovely, great selection, for a good cause - what more could you ask. Fantastic part of the neighborhood! read more

Affordable. Bright, fresh environment with vast selection and worthy mission. I will stop in anytime I visit from Philly!

So happy to have gone into MTW! I have been walking by every day for the past few months but never stopped in due to my love for B&N. I will say, I won't be going back there! MTW has a great selection and it's great that it is ever changing! Such awesome, welcoming employees working there that are willing to help. I love the concept of recycling books (I may have left with 4 books my first time in the store.) I highly recommend checking them out if you're a book lover like me! read more

Large bookstore with lots of different kinds of books, good prices on some of the books, it's well organized, guy that worked there was friendly, and bathrooms are clean. read more

Love this place. Always clean and well organized. Staff are helpful and I'm always finding great deals. Love the mission too, so I now donate all my books here as well. read more

$1 for everything? That's crazy cheap! Also bought a $10 for $20 couple, which meant... we walked out with 2 huge bags full of books (hardcover and soft copy), a complete season of Friends, complete collection of Lord of Rings, and two 1000 piece puzzles. I even felt a little bad for paying so little for these goodies. Definitely will have to come back! Hint - its hard to find, but essentially its right on the second floor of an warehouse looking building. read more

More thank words is such an amazing organization. They offer jobs to teens/young adults to bring them into the work force and teach them marketable skills. With these skills the employees are able to repurpose donated books and sell their crafts to interested buyers. They also collect donated books to sell at a more reasonable price to members of the community. GREAT WORK! read more

Really cool spot in a giant warehouse - perfect if you're looking for some cool used books. Great prices and friendly staff, easy to browse. read more

More Than Words has a wonderful little spot in the South End, right on East Berkeley across from the Pine Street Inn. Head upstairs for a used book store, with soft covers $4, hardcovers $5 and mass markets $1. They have a small area for children to play and couches/chairs for those who are looking for a place to connect to WiFi. The best part about this place is that it's run by teenagers in the court system, fostercare, homeless, etc. that are looking to gain experience in working for a business. I was approached by kids that were friendly and wanted to help- They were courteous, respectful and great. I loved seeing my cashier learning how to work the register, make change, etc. I will be heading to this place a few times a month! read more

Kind of out of the way and not in the greatest of neighborhoods, but sooo worth it, especially if you're as crazy about books AND empowering youth as I am. I walked in and was immediately greeted by a sweet teenage girl. They had a huge selection of books, vinyls, and DVDs, and I'm still excited over how cheap everything is! It's a great store to browse through, they have a really wide variety of both older and newer books, and no one bothers you, which is exactly what I love in a bookstore. One last slightly embarrassing note: I went there at about 2PM/3PM on a hot day (it gets WARM in there, they have fans but don't seem to have AC - not a complaint at all, just an observation) and hadn't eaten all day. As I was checking out, I immediately felt sick and was about to pass out from the combination of the heat/no food or water all day. The girl checking me out was calm, cool, and collected. She had me sit down until I felt better and went to grab me some water. She didn't cause a scene and didn't make me feel any more embarrassed than I already did. She couldn't have been older than 16 or 17 and handled the situation way better and more calmly than I probably would have at that age. If this is any indication of how More Than Words trains all of their younger employees, then they truly are a great company. I will definitely be back to both buy and donate some books. Can't wait to check out the Waltham location, too! read more