I went in to browse and found some lovely books for my grandsons and a birthday card for my sister. What a large assortment of stunning items for almost everyone I know. Free membership that doesn't expire. Discounted items (including book shelves of them as well) from holidays and their book selection offers. Helpful, kind present people working there. It's downtown Schenectady so street parking. (Best to go on Sunday) read more

Open Door Bookstore - Free reusable paper bag for purchases. - A paper bag features a printed line drawing of The Open Door Bookstore & Gift Gallery storefront in Schenectady, NY, including trees and shop windows. - Bookstores Near Me - Schenectady, New York

The Open Door is Schenectady's locally-owned independent bookstore and gift gallery, serving the capital region for 50 years. We carry a wide selection of literature for adults and children, including those of local and regional interest, as well as an expansive variety of toys, gifts, jewelry, stationery, personal accessories and home goods. Located in the heart of downtown Schenectady on the Jay Street Pedestrian Mall, they are around the corner from Proctors Theatre and many restaurants. There is lots of parking. The knowledgeable staff is wonderful to deal with in person or by telephone. The store even offer a frequent shopper rewards card. I had to pick up a book I ordered. Like many people, I prefer to support small businesses rather than Amazon and large mall bookstores whenever I can. The store was packed with great displays of books and gifts artfully arranged. I am always impressed with the space and attention devoted to books etc. for children. Before I checked out with the book I ordered, I selected a children's board book, three greetings cards, a stained glass frame for a 5 X 7 photo, and an adorable pair of llama socks for my young granddaughter. Great retail therapy! read more

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The best! Wonderful selection and friendly staff. Great events too! A mainstay of the Capital District.

i just got little post its from this brand called knock knock. i'm a big fan of them. i'm glad they carry them! i really liked all the soaps they carried and the cute glassware. very friendly staff too. read more

This was a super great bookstore! The staff was friendly and was knowledgeable on recent best sellers, and they were able to recommend books based on our interests. They also had a fantastic clearance section, including both fiction and nonfiction books. I really liked some of their specialty displays, such as their banned books table! I'll absolutely go back next time I'm in Schenectady! read more

Very good selection of books along with publications signed by the authors. Very good selection of bargain books and a nice staff goes along with this little store with so much to offer. read more

Adorable small bookstore with a wide range of books and cute gifts. I went before Christmas and they had lots of great gifts- little fancy jam/condiment sets, decorative home items and ornaments, fashion socks, jewelry, toys for kids. It's in a beautiful old building and down Jay Street were some other cute shops and restaurants. Definitely worth a visit. read more

I really wish I could like this store. I love supporting local independent businesses. Almost every time I visit, there's an issue. Often it's them not allowing customers into the store 10 minutes or more before their posted closing time because the registers are closed. This time I made a special trip to use my earned reward. Paid for parking. Browsed and selected a book, was told my reward expired yesterday. There was nothing they could do. Rewards are good for 60 days only, and last month had 31 days so it expired a day before I had anticipated. Seriously? A regular customer earns a large reward and no exception can be made? I explained that I would be a lost customer, obviously a frequent one because of the size of the reward I had earned. My family will no longer be able to support this business. Loyalty goes both ways. The owner really should allow for a small amount of flexibility for frequent and regular shoppers. I hope she sees this and considers it. It would have been SO easy to keep a regular customer happy. read more

This spot is one of my favorite independent bookstores in all the land, a great place to go for books and beyond! The shop is split in two, with books and reading goodness on one end and a busting-with-variety gift shop on the other. From the huge children's section, great local picks, and staff recommendations on the shelves, to the jewelry counter, kitchen goods, foodie gifts and home decor tucked in every corner, I love that this place has so many unique treasures that cover everyone on my list.* *including myself, because it's darn near impossible for me to leave without spotting something I adore for my own home each trip, too. read more

This has long-since been one of my favorite locally-owned, independent bookstore-gift shop hybrids in the land. And talk about street cred: this 'lil shop has been holding things down as the anchor on the Jay Street pedestrian corridor for close to 45 years! It's longstanding presence is a testament to what sit on its shelves. I might be a little biased, since I grew up in Schenectady and have been going to the Open Door since I was just a wee one, but it's always one of the first places I think to visit when looking for a unique gift. Sure, I love Target and Marshalls just as much as the next guy, but when it comes to selecting a thoughtful, unique gift (locally-made is a plus!), there's no comparison between the big box stores and little guys like this - you can feel the TLC that's put into every display and product selection, and it's just an entirely different shopping experience than what we're used to in the Amazon-era. The Open Door has two components: book store, and gift gallery, and both are worth exploring. It would be hard not to find a gift for the bookworm in your life on the bookstore side of the operation, with wonderful selections ranging from local titles to the hottest YA novel lining their shelves, and trinkets, small toys, and plenty of book accessories hiding like Easter eggs up and down the aisles. If you really want to tap into all your sensories, then you must make your way over to the gift gallery side of the shop where you can roam up and down the aisles, never at a loss for something new and fun to admire. Soaps that could double as whimsical works of art, other worldly-looking blown glass jewelry handmade in the Catskills (one of my favorites!), funky socks with attitude (and ego-boosting sayings like, "You're not obsessive, you're compulsively awesome!"), tea, coffee, sake sets, new favorite mugs, candles, lotions, potions, Rifle Paper Co. whimsy nicknacks, local artisans galore, and everything in between. The bottom line: The Open Door knows what you're looking for before you do, and those are my favorite kinds of shops. Next time you're shopping for a gift, don't hesitate to give the Open Door Bookstore a visit! These days, it's more than an errand or jaunt to Schenectady, it's a destination: with ample/easy parking (meters by City Hall, or public lots offering the first two hours free!) it's easy to just park the car and make an afternoon of it. Grab lunch or a tea at The Whistling Kettle, an açaí bowl at Raw, enjoy some latte art at the Happy Cappy, or just stretch those legs and take a stroll down Jay Street, because there's plenty of window shopping to do on this hidden (not so hidden?) pedestrian-only promenade. read more

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This book shop is what my book shop dreams are made of. Thoughtfully picked books, excellent sales, kind people, welcoming vibe. Found a few cookbooks I've never heard of before which was quite the treat and picked up a great kids book for a gift. Would recommend to anyone who likes books or likes someone who likes books! read more

Personal attention makes shopping a pleasure. Mar 2023 * Solo When I wish to speak to knowledgeable book sellers I always go to the Open Door. They listen to my thoughts and needs and their suggestions are always welcomed. They are competitively priced but it's interaction with the staff that makes the difference. I've found some real gems and they have a wide selection. I'll definitely return. Leisurely browsing is encouraged. Kermit A read more

They are the very best! I recently bought a rather hard-to-find book by a famous musician and my dreams came true! Open Door was so kind, they even threw in a book for my son. Long live Open Door Bookstore!! read more

Cute gift store combined with a bookstore - who could resist? I bought my mother a glass cat here that was very pretty and had a nice back story. I love all of the displays, everything seems so carefully placed in the gift section of the store. Lots and lots of books with some harder to find titles and a lot of diversity in the children's section. I could roam around for hours! Definitely worth checking out if you visit the area. read more

Really excellent indy bookstore at the corner of the Jay Street walk, a nice location and a nice small store. The gift shop didn't send me much, but the bookstore side is full of what I'd call a lazy-Sunday-reading selection - nice trade paperback fiction, the bestsellers if you want them, a truly decent children's collection (although not the equal of the Little House, better in many ways than the larger section at Barnes and Noble), a good if small local interest section, and the requisite comfy chairs and soothing music (soft but not too soft jazz on our recent visit). The children's area has a small but nicely selected toy section, featuring some Melissa and Doug, Ravensburger, etc., and because perhaps of the adjoining gift store there were some fun stocking-stuffer type gifts like one used to find at Borders before it got too big, then too bankrupt, to care about unique little items. The staff selections and selected reviews are usefully attached around the shelves. I do accept one pays full price for an indy bookstore these days, it's the price of admission, so it's not the price that's keeping me from giving it a fifth star but just a lack of the extra-level of selection or having a truly unique section, something that would bump it up to world-class. But it's best-in-class so far in our explorations of area book stores, and it's a nice complement to the other indy bookstores. The closeness of the location means we'll be back frequently. read more

Open Door Bookstore - Bookstores Near Me - Schenectady, New York

Wonderful reason to drive to Schenectady - this store changes each season and the new additions are delightful both in books and in gifts

This is one of my all-time favorite bookstores anywhere. Wonderful recommendations, extensive kids section, unique gifts, cards you won't find anywhere else. read more

Love their selection, love their staff and I love the overall feeling of comfort you get when you walk in. It's like a wave a relaxation!

Just like the previous reviewers, awesome little bookstore. This one is kind of tucked away, full of great books at great prices. Nice friendly staff. The book my brother wanted was literally pointed right at us as we walked through the front door...Too funny. read more

The one time my son and I were able to go to the Friday story time, we were warmly welcomed and encouraged to participate. The storyteller could tell my son was feeling very shy and gave him the space he needed to feel comfortable. Customer service has always been great and the items they stock are well curated. While I think this is a really nice bookstore, its gift store is even better. Many of the items are from local artists or companies that pay fair wages. The children's toys are good quality and so sweet. I was thinking about only giving four stars because they aren't open as late as I'd like, but decided on five because they do extend their hours during the winter holiday season, which is really when I do most of my book and gift shopping. read more

The Open Door Bookstore is exactly what you want from a local independent bookstore. The shelves in this intimate shop are filled with a surprisingly eclectic array of books. Browsing is such a joy that you will usually end up with an armful of books you weren't expecting to find, and most of which you have never even heard. The friendly staff offers personalized recommendations far superior to the typical chain store and its online brethren. Not only is this little store a treat for booklovers. It's also packed with gifts; stationery, artisan gifts of every variety, and a wonderful hand-picked selection of children's toys complete the scene. And, what better place for such a bookstore as Jay Street, in the heart of downtown Schenectady? After you've made your purchases, head down a few doors to Ambition Coffee House to grab a sandwich and start paging through your new books! read more

This is one of my favorite places to go. The staff are extremely well informed about all genres and have wonderful suggestions. I love the discount program and have often taken advantage of it. There is a great selection of books and the gift shop and children's toy section are interesting and I have been successful in finding wonderful gifts there. They will order anything not in stock. If you love supporting local businesses, this is an excellent choice. read more

Support your local neighborhood bookstores! And this from me who is really excited about receiving a Kindle for Christmas.... But seriously, Open Door is great. It's been around since I was little (I used to beg my mom to take me there!), and it's still a place I go visit just about every time I go "home" to Schenectady. The staff are all book-lovers, of course, so if you're having a hard time finding something, they will help you find it or order it for you. For the past few years, Open Door has offered a frequent buyer's card. After you fill up all the squares on the card, you get 25% off your next purchase (I think...) for up to $75. I especially love the discount books section. It's very browsable, and I've found some great books at surprising prices. Like $6 for a book that would normally be $25. On my latest visit, I didn't mean to buy anything, and I still came away with a couple books! Their gift shop has some beautiful jewelry and great gift items for many different price ranges. They have many unusual/unique toys for kids and infants, too. As an aside, there will be a day where you can purchase e-books from Open Door and other independent booksellers, so watch out for that. read more

I just visited this store for the first time yesterday and it's a great little bookstore. The staff was very friendly, the inside was very neat and clean and the selection was pretty big. It was a little expensive, though. I will definitely be coming back here! read more

This is one of my favorite bookstores and a staple in downtown Schenectady. As a little girl I used to play in their window, the atmosphere there has always been cozy and welcoming. Christmas season keeps places like this alive so think about picking something up from them! read more

Such a great bookstore, and adjoining gift shop with just the right degree of quirky. Very helpful staff. Took home a bargain book, local tee, the perfect mug and several cards and did not break the bank. Had to use extreme self control to not buy one of everything read more

I love this book store and it always has nifty little finds that always make you smile :) The store is a half book store connected with a gift shop that has tons of things like pottery, jewelery, purses, tea items, etc. The only downside is the staff doesn't really greet people when they walk in and none of them really ask you if you need any help and just stick to themselves mainly. read more

I've been coming here since I was a little girl. Its a quaint little bookstore tucked away in downtown Schenectady. They have a little bit of everything. The staff is always friendly and helpful. Its always a surprise come in, they always have new things. read more

Fabulous bookstore and gift gallery, with a committed and knowledgeable staff. The local section is beyond compare, and the discount books are phenomenal. The staff is very kind and knowledgeable, and, most important, literate. You won't find that any many of the chain bookstore (I worked at one, most worked for the paycheck, not the love of books). The store hosts a variety of book signings and events for kids, making the Open Door a truly community-based bookstore, which everyone should patronize. read more

Long before the revival of downtown Schenectady started, this place was source of unusual wonders. It was one of my favorite places to go throughout my childhood and remains great to visit. I've moved to a big city, but among all of the quirky bookstores of Chicago I haven't found its equal. And that's saying something. read more

Love love love this bookstore and the customer service! Great selection and excellent events!

Love the local businesses in Schenectady! I am never disappointed. I always find something different to buy either a co-worker or everyone on my Christmas list! Only one downfall is I end up keeping something and having to go shopping again! I did hear it is for sale and please don't leave us! I have been shopping here for years and want to continue! read more

Independent bookstores are my weakness! I love to check out the gifts every time I am visiting Schenectady. It's like walking through a treasure chest! I find the most unique items. Check out the mention on PeterGreenberg.com http://www.petergreenberg.com/b/Off-The-Brochure-Travel-Guide:-Schenectady,-New-York/399827041113180322.html read more

Great small town book store with lots of great books. You don't feel rushed or hurried in any way. There prices are ok but I love there kids gift area read more

They're a great, local business. I always love going in. They have a great staff and a nice location on Jay Street. They have an excellent selection, including many different genres. It's important to support local business, and this is a wonderful one. read more

Great store but the hours are horrible. Difficult to make it there with a regular job since they close so early.

I came into the bookstore to check it out because I have never been on Jay street before because back in the day it just wasn't a place to really go. But I went inside and it's a small to decent sized place. It has all that you would most likely need and then some. They have what's nice an overview of certain books that may not be popular but come with recommendations from some of the staff. They have a nice wall on the right hand side with a bunch of on sale books from all genre's. Pretty good sales too like half off and they seem like good books not the books on sale because you haven't heard of them or are not interesting books. In the back they have also other things like old school and some current toys for kids and also a good number of books for the kids as well. They even have some local products for sale like jam, honey, and other silver wear. In the next room attached has ecofriendly cards for most occasions, hand made items, lotions, soy candles, and dabbling in a little jewlery also. I really enjoyed walking through this place in the downtown Schenectady area. Great to see good businesses coming in like this one. Jay street does have great potential and glad to see this place there! read more

Keep our local businesses alive, support Jay Street businesses! Open door rocks! Cards, gifts, music AND books!