Mrs Dalloway&#x27;s Bookstore

I fell in love with this bookstore. I'm sure my sons regretted we went in because I spent time…read morehere. They have so much new and used selection. All types of books. I'm a non-fiction bookworm and this place is a heaven. The value for most books is reasonable and lower than a regular book store. I loved how organized it was on each floor and there were posted guides if you wanted to see more what floor to find them. They have a top floor with staff by appointment for special books. Other than that there's no staff interaction except at payment. I also loved they had table and chair seatings in random places be use you will get tired of checking out everything. Yes, I left with 7 books, no regrets and wish I could've taken more. I will def be back! They have straits and elevators but I recommend taking the stairs as they have interesting frames on the way and shop on lower level by stairwell.

Moe's is iconic for plenty of reasons, but one staff member today isn't one of them. I've shopped…read morehere many times, but this was my first time trying to sell. I came in with a big box of books and a man checking out customers pointed me to the counter by the window. While I waited, I set my box on an empty part of the counter. The man who'd be looking at my books told me I'd have to wait 4 minutes. His tone was hostile, so I just told him I was waiting. When it was my turn, things got sour fast. The offer felt low, so I asked if there was any room to negotiate. Right away, no. Fine. I asked if there were other options, and he said I'd get more in store credit. Since I hadn't decided between credit and cash, I asked if he could write the offer down so I could come back another day. Again, an instant no. He said he was "too busy." I don't know what kind of training Moe's gives its staff, but this gentleman could use some customer service training. Maybe Moe's could stock a few books on the subject and encourage him to read them. There are plenty of other great bookstores nearby. I'd recommend Pegasus Books for your book fix.

Upstairs

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At Moe's perusing the endless aisles of books

Pegasus Books Downtown

4.1(241 reviews)

1.0 mi•Downtown Berkeley

The way brick and mortar bookstores are dwindling these are becoming unicorns…read more I have to admit that the last few books I bought were all online - one because it was independently published and no bookstore carried it - but the other two I didn't even bother looking after that first hunt. We need to support these bookstores. Let them know what you want and they might hear you for next time. I liked the cards and other items they had in stock too. Its great to pick up before you make a decision. Right now I have a few books in my 'to read pile' and once those are finished I will come back here for some more. Great to have this in the neighborhood.

A really good bookstore in Downtown Berkeley!!…read more I came in here looking for a calendar, and ended up browsing through the books. It's a classic old school style bookstore, with very friendly people working here. I didn't spend as much time in here that I wanted to, definitely have to come here again!!

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Booker Prize winner 2026

Barnes & Noble

3.4(234 reviews)

2.7 mi

This bookstore is a nice addition to the Bay Street mall in Emeryville. It is one of the anchor…read morestores. In terms of square footage it is the largest retail store, with perhaps the exception of Tokyo Central. The sections are well separated, and the books are well curated. The staff is sparse but helpful. I like how the upstairs spills out into the food court area. The prices here are slightly higher than Amazon, but it's worth it to be able to flip through the books and peruse.

I'll always have fond memories whenever entering a Barnes & Noble. I am just a lover of all book…read morestores, and I mean the ones that aren't online! There's a massive parking garage to use. It's not free if you want to do more than 30 minutes but thankfully you can get your card validated at Barnes & Noble. Incredibly organized as is all B&Ns are. It's two stories so there's an escalator. There's the cafe there too. Super helpful people work here. Feels cozy and safe in here. Plenty of seating at the cafe and a couple of chairs around the store. Loved stopping by the 50 percent off section! The value there is great. I was able to get a book for less than $7. 5/5

0.7 mi•Rockridge, North Oakland

Facade of the store

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East Bay Booksellers

4.4(153 reviews)

When I walked in a week and a half ago, I was met with the cutest little book store! Although they…read moredid not have the two books I was looking for, they instantly offered to get them shipped in for me. It only took a week and a half for both books to arrive! I received a text they were ready for pick up and paid on delivery (no fees for shipping or anything!!) What a great little store with friendly staff who are happy for your business! My new go to shop!

Very cute bookstore! They have a great selection of books and it was nicely organized! It's also to…read moreeasy to find on College Ave with street parking available in this area.

The best bookstore ever: East Bay Booksellers!

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Some of the displays

Half Price Books

4.0(372 reviews)

1.2 mi•Downtown Berkeley

Save your time! Save your money!…read moreIt's time that they got what was coming. We came here and it was an absolute waste. Most of the stuff they have are packed up in the boxes that you can see in some of the pictures. You can also see they pulled a lot of stuff off the shelves and the prices are higher. I have a picture of two of the same books. One looks used. The other one looks new and one is 699 and the other one is 599. It isn't like one has a signature or anything. It's not special. It just cost more. The people who work there were kind of just hanging around in the back and not doing much. And they're already closed! I remember what the days when they were open until 10 11 o'clock at night but that was a long time ago back when they were relevant. I say it's karma because they didn't buy everybody's books. I have a picture of them saying they are no longer buying books. They don't buy books from Black people, full stop!And so. Bye!!! The problem they always said they had my books that my books are old. So why am I looking at a bookstore with nothing but old books. If they have separate pricing for Black people, they should just say that and suffered the consequences for that. This is a place I used to go to for all my books and I loved going there because I love getting a bargain, however, when I wanted to sell some books that's when things got funky. I find it interesting that I get more money from other places selling less books than I've ever gotten from them and I never did do my experiment where a white friend would walk in and sell my books so that I could see how much money she got. I bet she wouldn't have been told about how old her books are, which is hard to understand when the books are old as Methuselah! But, now they won't be my inspiration for purchasing off of Amazon, which is pretty much what they've become to me. I see a book in the store, look up the author and the book online, and if I can get it at my library or on Amazon, I will get it because I don't wanna waste money with people who say they buy books and don't buy them., full stop! Bye...

I have came here several times but never reviewed. There's a lot of street parking but a very busy…read morestreet. This bookstore has been here for a very long time so it is a little older. It's a pretty good size they have plenty of books, kid activities, and music. They do not have a public bathroom. The prices are pretty reasonable. We were able to find a few things here.

0.5 mi•Telegraph Ave, Elmwood

Recent purchase of random selections.

Ad Hoc@ Home + French Laundry set for $49.95 before tax!

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Thomas Keller love: both for less than $50!

Sleepy Cat Books

4.7(93 reviews)

Some places, some people, and some creatures have soul. A place that stops your tracks - you'll…read morefind all of that in this sweet little bookstore. A lovely selection of book, extremely thoughtful human, and officially our favorite cat spokes-creature out there. A delightful range of books and ideas for reading in this store right near Berkeley's campus. I hope you will visit. Places like this are so important to our community.

The bookstore itself was small, but had quite a few decent selections in terms of books. I…read morepersonally enjoyed looking at the postcards and stickers available. The real star of the show was Lyla and her owner. Both are the sweetest and most charming and soothing individuals I have ever met. I would love to see Lyla again. I miss her already.

Interior

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Clio’s

4.1(133 reviews)

3.4 mi•Adams Point

After a long walk around Lake Merritt with my niece, I was on a mission to find a restroom. She…read moresuggested we stop by Clio's Bookstore & Bar, describing it as part bookstore, part reading lounge, and part bar. I expected a quick pit stop--I ended up wanting to stay. This place is an absolute gem. The atmosphere is eclectic, cozy, and full of personality. The shelves are lined with books spanning more eras and genres than I even knew existed, making it feel like a literary treasure hunt. Every direction I looked revealed another fascinating title or beautifully aged collection. One of my closest friends is a librarian, so I found myself snapping photo after photo to send her because I knew she'd be completely enamored with this place. I didn't order food or drinks during this visit (I rarely drink), but I already know I'll be back. The ambiance alone is worth experiencing. It's the kind of place where you can lose yourself browsing vintage books, settle into a chair with a good read, and simply enjoy the unique energy. From what I could tell, many of the books are also available for purchase, which makes it even more tempting to return. I also noticed that Clio's hosts community events, so I'll definitely be checking their calendar before my next visit. Whether you're a book lover, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates unique spaces with soul, Clio's Bookstore & Bar is well worth a stop.

Came to Clio's for book club and we were actually having a really good time. The place is super…read morecute and we all ordered drinks from the bar. Since the only food they really had were $24 charcuterie boards, we DoorDashed some food. A lady came over and told us we weren't allowed to have outside food, which okay, fine -- but there are literally no signs anywhere saying no outside food or drinks. What really bothered us was that other people came in with outside food and were eating it and nobody said anything to them. If that's the policy, then it should apply to everyone, not just certain tables. Such a shame because we really liked the place and were having a good time. We were buying drinks and would've definitely stayed longer. If outside food isn't allowed, just put up a sign and enforce the rule for everyone.

3.1 mi•Grand Lake, Lower Hills

Blackberry sage shrub

A Friday night at 10pm, busy and loud. Nice bartenders.

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Interior

Walden Pond Bookstore

4.4(258 reviews)

After all these years, Walden Pond Books is still a place I like to go into to see if I can find a…read morebook to purchase and read on BART. I always find a good book to read. Good reason to take BART and walk over is the Grand Lake is a great place to sit around as if we are tourists from a planet named Saturn.

I was browsing Grand Avenue past the Grand Lake Theatre and landed in here. I'm much more of a…read morelibrary goer than a book store spender, buuuut, I love books regardless. That ended up not being what I browsed, though. I went over to their small but sufficient record selection. They had top albums and artists, like Stevie Wonder's Songs in the Key of Life. I kept looking and looking and found The Internet's Ego Death for $32. Yep, found what I needed and almost left but checking out their used albums they had Kendrick's good kid, m.A.A.d city and Drake's Views for about $27 or $28 each. Idk what a good used album price is really going for these days, but I was happy with my selection, went to the counter and checked out. I can't really say much for service because I was in and out so quickly and there didn't appear to be many employees, which I get that these days.

When my kids were young, they played in the little Playhouse. My granddaughter found her own spot.

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Kingstone Bookstore

4.0(89 reviews)

4.1 mi

I love this place so much !! Truly unique items I don't see at other places near me, I literally…read moredrive 1hr to come here. The store owners are super kind and sometimes add freebies. They stock this place w/ new inventory all the time. Prices are so good as well.

My go-to supplier for Sonny Angels, Smiskis, and mofusand figurines on top of so many other cute…read moregifts for friends (or yourself). From plushies and keychains to blind boxes and decorations, there is a reason this business has rightfully earned so much of my money. They post a lot of helpful content on their Instagram account to keep you up-to-date on what is in stock. The staff is super friendly and do their best to give you a heads up on when new shipments are coming in. They are definitely worth making the trek from the El Cerrito Plaza and prices are reasonable to original price compared to other retailers (and arguably a better deal since you do not have to deal with shipping). Love them so much

Sunday Series Smiski

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Mugs

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

9 reviews that are not currently recommended

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

Ginger Wentworth W.

0

1

0

12 years ago

I live near this store I read so much that I'm forced to go in sometimes. But I have to say-- though I dress nice and act conventionally, am the age and gender for this kind of literate customer base, the staff of this store is unfriendly, not only to me but I see them giving the cold shoulder to lots of people. How must it be for somebody say, chewing gum in a tube top who misguidedly appears, I wouldn't like to see. One day, at the end of many shopping hours-- I had to pee. I'd just paid for my books, the salesperson was entering my name in the frequent buyer register. So I leaned toward her and most apologetically I said, "I'm sorry to ask this, but-- could I use your ladies' room?" She looked up and she said, "Our WOMEN'S room is for the staff only." That's what she sternly said to me. At first I thought she was kidding, since it was so like a kind of 1980's joke about feminists, and because she was so indifferent to my actual situation 'as between feminists' and also-- how disgusting was it back there? Not all pastel colors? And may I just say to anyone who doesn't know this, Mrs. Dalloway herself was exactly the kind of person who'd have to use the bathroom everywhere she went, being totally absent-minded; and just the type not to understand things like the kind of scolding this woman was trying to give me with her terminology regulations--whatever the parallel snobbery might have been in those days. What good is this type of thing? read more

Grace T.

Elite 23

265

260

466

2 years ago

Ms. Dalloway's Bookstore in Berkeley's Elmwood neighborhood is a charming spot that offers a decent selection of books and gifts. Located right on College Avenue, the store has a cozy atmosphere that invites you to browse at your leisure. The variety of books available is impressive, covering a wide range of genres from fiction to non-fiction. Whether you're looking for the latest bestseller or a classic novel, you're likely to find something that catches your eye. Additionally, they have a nice selection of greeting cards and miscellaneous gifts, making it a convenient stop for last-minute presents or just a little something for yourself. One of the highlights of Ms. Dalloway's is their occasional book events in the evening. These gatherings can be a great way to engage with authors and fellow book lovers, adding a community feel to the store. read more

Amanda B.

0

3

0

8 years ago

I love this bookstore! The employees are very friendly and are always willing to help find books and make recommendations. Their gardening selection is particularly extensive and you could definitely find anything you may need to satisfy your green thumb. I love their selection of fiction and poetry -- you can always find something new and interesting to dive into (the staff picks also help with that). The first time I walked into the store I had never read Mrs. Dalloway, so that was the first book I picked up. Walking in after reading that book leads to a wholly new experience and makes you appreciate the mannequin of Mrs. Dalloway housed in their front window much more. The store is also filled with little plants and other items that make the browsing experience especially pleasant. read more

Marion B.

0

10

0

20 years ago

The owners of this shop apparently read no more of Virginia Woolf than the opening sentence of "Mrs Dalloway". Then they must have seen "The Hours"...They obviously never read Virginia Woolf's scathing comments on Americans with literary and other pretensions. And how twee can you be...This place is a joke. There are real bookstores, like Pendragon, Diesel, Walden Pond, the Spectator and others in Oakland, owned and staffed by people who know and love books, rather than silly twits attempting fake Brit bibliophilia, garnished with social climbing aspirations. read more

posh g.

2

38

0

18 years ago

So lovely -- my favorite bookstore. Clean, organized, and with only the type of books I like (literature, fiction, gardening, architecture, etc). It's not for everyone, and they don't have sci fi, or a business section or comic books, etc., but to me, that's the beauty of it. It's a little pricey, but I guess that makes sense given how small and nice it is. I like to support local vendors, and this is a place I will go back to again and again. read more

Dariya P.

30

7

2

7 years ago

One of my favorite bookstores located in the cutest neighborhood. They have a very extensive collection of gardening books as well. The staff is extremely helpful and if they don't have something they can order it right away and you get it within two days. There's also a very extensive children's section that is kind of a separate room. read more

june b.

92

124

0

16 years ago

A lovely small bookstore. They have a great selection of literature (and none of that computer programming for dummies junk). Also, a good selection of kids books and some gardening and design.. I like that it is a small independent local store, and would choose this over boarders/B&N any day of the week. read more

Jay P.

0

9

0

11 years ago

Just a cute neighborhood book store. Lots of titles friendly staff. very charming.

kate m.

20

5

0

19 years ago

Just terrific in every way- lovely people, lovely shop.

Mrs Dalloway's Bookstore - bookstores - Updated October 2026

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Pegasus Books Downtown

4.1

(241 reviews)

The way brick and mortar bookstores are dwindling these are becoming unicorns…read more I have to admit that the last few books I bought were all online - one because it was independently published and no bookstore carried it - but the other two I didn't even bother looking after that first hunt. We need to support these bookstores. Let them know what you want and they might hear you for next time. I liked the cards and other items they had in stock too. Its great to pick up before you make a decision. Right now I have a few books in my 'to read pile' and once those are finished I will come back here for some more. Great to have this in the neighborhood.

A really good bookstore in Downtown Berkeley!!…read more I came in here looking for a calendar, and ended up browsing through the books. It's a classic old school style bookstore, with very friendly people working here. I didn't spend as much time in here that I wanted to, definitely have to come here again!!

Moe's Books

4.5

(481 reviews)

I fell in love with this bookstore. I'm sure my sons regretted we went in because I spent time…read morehere. They have so much new and used selection. All types of books. I'm a non-fiction bookworm and this place is a heaven. The value for most books is reasonable and lower than a regular book store. I loved how organized it was on each floor and there were posted guides if you wanted to see more what floor to find them. They have a top floor with staff by appointment for special books. Other than that there's no staff interaction except at payment. I also loved they had table and chair seatings in random places be use you will get tired of checking out everything. Yes, I left with 7 books, no regrets and wish I could've taken more. I will def be back! They have straits and elevators but I recommend taking the stairs as they have interesting frames on the way and shop on lower level by stairwell.

Moe's is iconic for plenty of reasons, but one staff member today isn't one of them. I've shopped…read morehere many times, but this was my first time trying to sell. I came in with a big box of books and a man checking out customers pointed me to the counter by the window. While I waited, I set my box on an empty part of the counter. The man who'd be looking at my books told me I'd have to wait 4 minutes. His tone was hostile, so I just told him I was waiting. When it was my turn, things got sour fast. The offer felt low, so I asked if there was any room to negotiate. Right away, no. Fine. I asked if there were other options, and he said I'd get more in store credit. Since I hadn't decided between credit and cash, I asked if he could write the offer down so I could come back another day. Again, an instant no. He said he was "too busy." I don't know what kind of training Moe's gives its staff, but this gentleman could use some customer service training. Maybe Moe's could stock a few books on the subject and encourage him to read them. There are plenty of other great bookstores nearby. I'd recommend Pegasus Books for your book fix.

Tally Ho Books

4.1

(10 reviews)

Let us set the stage…read more It's 1986. You head to the local bookstore with a mission: find a gift for a friend. Your friend is a mystery buff, and you are a Town-loving nerd, so you want to pick up something that combines these two criteria. But you don't know a book like that personally. Nevertheless, you are unfazed because you have faith in the fearless bookstore staff. You know they'll help you. The cheerful Tally Ho! front window, studded with irresistible and thematic front covers, catches your eye from across the street. It's quarter to closing time o'clock and the place is packed. You are by nature distractible when it comes to beautiful units of reading material. And boy howdy, do they ever have the most beautiful and attractive books. How do they fit so many books within these walls? Will you remember your quest, or will you get sidetracked by the Richard Scarry bags and the Edward Gorey books? Not to worry; the friendly co-owner recognizes the book-trance on your face, and immediately collects the information. They are methodical and efficient and hella smart, and within two minutes, they are showing you the exact spot on the shelf wherein lies the perfect cozy local mystery novel. There is a line at the till, so you get the opportunity to take in the very wide selection of books in the center display. It would be impossible to leave without this graphic novel, right? Oh, this magical realism book was so important to the community, you get that one, too. You do manage to exercise discernment and restraint within the gently used book section, but the smug feeling dissipates when you notice the fistfuls of funny cards you've pulled from the rack. You hear the co-owner tell another customer not to stress about it being closing time o'clock. It feels great to pay for a small stack of books and greeting cards, you think to yourself, as you reemerge onto the sidewalk. But then you remember it's actually 2026. The oasis you just exited is even more rare and precious today. You hear your spouse say, you know, they only just realized that Richard Scarry and Edward Gorey are actually two different people. Your hand finds theirs. You realize that you haven't exhaled that fully or laughed that hard in weeks.

If I could give it zero stars I would and that's just based on customer service. I work at the…read morehospital down the street come in often to check out books. NO ONE EVER GREETS YOU OR EVEN GIVES A SMILE. first impression terrible and I rather give my money to other local places than to people who think they're too good to at least offer a smile to people walking in. This is the person I got today who didn't even bother to turn her head towards customers, you all have got some Serious training to do and if they don't like to greet you're in the wrong job.

Womb House Books

5.0

(8 reviews)

Every time I try to convince myself that I'm on a book-buying ban, I get pulled right into Womb…read moreHouse whenever I'm in the area. You'll feel like you stepped into a turn of the 20th century time-capsule the moment you walk into the store. It's really warm and inviting. As the name would suggest, you'll find curated selections of mostly female authors. Although I did score some vintage copies of Freud and Lacan. The owner is really nice and personable and knows her stuff so she'd be able to give you good recommendations. Shout out to Jessica!

This is such a magical space. I was taking a stroll during my lunch break and happened to walk in…read more It smelled divine, the staff member was so kind, and the energy of the shop felt like a warm hug. I could have spent hours looking through their amazing book selection and enjoying the ambiance. I'm so happy they're in Oakland.

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A very good, very local bookstore located on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland!!!…read more Along with books, there are all kinds of collectibles in here, so although this store is small, you should spend some time really looking around in here, there's no telling what you might find! There was also a pretty good selection of vinyl records in here!! They greet you coming and going in this store, very friendly!!

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(41 reviews)

I stopped in here today on a whim. The employee repeatedly brought up fascism and claimed we are…read moreliving under a dictatorship, insisting that I take flyers about the current political climate. The irony is that a bookstore like this--framing itself as "revolutionary" and openly promoting ideas about dictatorship, fascism, LGBTQ issues, and modern-day slavery--would not exist under an actual fascist regime. In such systems, only books that praise or reinforce the ruling ideology are permitted. That contradiction made the messaging feel more like extreme leftist propaganda than serious critique, to the point of being almost comical. I still purchased a gift for a friend, but the anti-Trump rhetoric was truly over the top. I'm just a normie trying to buy a book.

wonderful sales people, they have an unmatched selection of Books on on revolution, art,…read moreliterature, fiction, women, history, science, LGBTQ, which go up against the status quo censorship, and MAGA world view.

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The best selection of books on war and the military in Oakland. Covers many wars historical and…read morecurrent, many countries armed forces. Both old and new editions. Great place to browse.

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