Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse isn't just a bookstore; it's the heart of Anacortes's literary and…read moresocial life, a true haven where the maritime air meets the comforting scent of old paper and fresh espresso. This isn't a sterile chain shop--it's a warm, sunshiny hub built from beautiful wood tones, welcoming you to slow down and stay awhile. What immediately strikes you is how wonderfully curated the space is. Despite being "jam-packed" with thousands of quality used and collectible books, the store manages to feel open, airy, and inviting. The selection is fantastic, especially their deep cuts in Pacific Northwest History, general fiction, and esoterica. Browsing is a delight thanks to the meticulous organization that makes finding that hidden literary gem feel like a genuine discovery. The "Coffeehouse" part of the name is equally crucial. Serving delicious, locally-sourced coffee (like Olympia Coffee Roasters beans) and boasting a pastry case filled with unique treats--the legendary rosemary sea salt rolls, figgy bars, and baked goods are must-tries--it perfectly complements the reading experience. The friendly, attentive staff, who are clearly passionate about bookselling, are always ready to offer a recommendation or assist, often going above and beyond. Whether you're looking for a quiet, bright nook to get some work done, a comfortable chair to sip a vanilla bean latte, or an engaging evening out for a poetry reading or live piano music, Pelican Bay delivers. It's a bookstore with character, clearly beloved by locals and a mandatory stop for any visitor. It's the kind of place you'll remember long after you've left Anacortes. Highly, highly recommend!

Oh my stars! This bookstore.....is simply perfect!!…read more This is honestly the cutest book store I've ever been to. Great place for pictures, affordable great quality second hand books, and oh did I mention it's also a coffee shop. I mean could it get any better? No I don't think it could. I genuinely felt so happy the moment I stepped inside this store. It's just such a beautiful space that feels cozy and inviting. After walking around a bit I went to order a coffee. And I honestly don't think I've ever met nicer baristas in my life! They were all so sweet and kind and helpful! I tried out the fig leaf latte and the autumn tea latte and both were spectacular! Great flavor and smoothness. Overall I love this bookstore and it's well worth the drive! Definitely a hidden gem! I'll be back!!

Easton's Books is the quintessential used bookstore tucked away in an older building with towering…read morebookcases stacked full of various books. Each book section is clearly marked and no book section is small. Often topics will creep into the other areas. Being a used bookstore their stock is understandably inconsistent. Some books are rare little gemstones, one of a kind treasures. Others are fascinating because there are duplicates of random tomes, like yacht types from the 1980's, that made me wonder how they had more than one at all. The store feels old. A used bookstore, I suppose, should feel old. I enjoyed walking through the aisles looking up at all the various titles. The employees stayed by the front desk - a couple older men who were exchanging stories of tulip festivals long since past. While they didn't engage people walking through they always turned their full attention to any customer who needed their help. It is a fascinating store!

Honestly about as good as it gets. Pretty much only used books (as the lord intended), all…read morereasonably priced, massive selection. The philosophy section is one of the absolute best I have ever seen at any bookstore period, it's better than even a place like Powell's. I spent close to an hour in that section alone. I find the staff very friendly, if not a little eclectic, but that's perfect for a place like this. Love this place.

I stopped in to The Book Rack today and decided to have a light snack at the Cafe inside…read more I chose the Mushroom and Olive flatbread and Autumn Heat tea. The flatbread was nice and crispy with a good flavor for something pre-made and just needed to be heated. But the highlight of my visit was the Autumn Heat tea. The "Heat" refers to the spice level (one of the ingredients is Hot Honey), you can choose for it to be served hot or cold. I chose to have it served hot. I really enjoy spicy food and drinks. This tea was very spicy! If you enjoy spicy foods you should give this one a try. Otherwise, I recommend you pass on this one! As normal, the staff are very friendly, knowledgeable about what they sell, and polite. Always a pleasure to shop at The Book Rack.

Mostly, a staff that is patient with an oldster trying to navigate the website. Before that, they…read morewere also very helpful, whatever I was after. I am now housebound, and I appreciate their help via the phone. Selection is good, especially for a small town store, and prices are not out of line with any others.

Love this bookstore! It has a great selection of books for all ages and genres as well as gifts…read more I've stopped by here last year and this year during mini vacations and bought some cute greeting cards. The staff is usually friendly and kind, adding to the cozy atmosphere.

Great bookstore! Helpful staff and good selection of books and gift ideas. Always happy to special…read moreorder

We love to see a bookstore thriving!! This is so much more than just a bookstore (and adjoining…read morepaper/confectionery/novelty shop). Its a community hub! I recently moved to Bellingham and Village Books (and paper dreams) actually really swayed me to move here. Its a book palace, 3 stories of well organized selection. The front facing books are well chosen, and the used books are interspersed with the new books. There are quite a few staff picks sections, all of which are super interesting and worth looking over. Three days before Christmas 2025 I was there trying to pick out a horror book for a friend of mine. Horror is not my genre (more of a fantasy and literature gal myself), so I for sure needed guidance. The shop lady spent so much time reviewing the whole horror section with me . When we couldn't find the main book we decided on me buying, she spent the time looking everywhere for it. She enlisted the help of two additional staff members. When she was needed for another task, she made sure one of the other shop ladies had me covered. I ended up ordering the book, which came in a few days and they texted me when it arrived. Easy peasy! I will never forget that experince, especially as the store was jam packed with x-mas shoppers. Village books in fairhaven is the spot! My only note is that their bookclubs could be better. The bookclubs are during the day and don't have different genre selections (they are mostly nonfiction). There is a silent reading bookclub that I might try. They could be cultivating different types of communities (ie book clubs geared towards romantasy, sci-fi, literature, etc.), but maybe that will come with time.

I really wanted to love the store. I'm long time book lover and one who worked in the book…read moreindustry for over 20 years. This store seemingly has it all; great selection of books, both knew and used, lots of old wood, and a staff that seems knowledgeable if a little bit unhappy. The last part can explain why the vibe is just off. It just doesn't feel comfortable nor welcoming, and if I had to put my finger on the cause, I would say it is likely due to management. I witnessed firsthand how the store manager ignored customers in line waiting to pay because he was on the phone. You never ignore the customers who are right in front of you. I wish the store all the best, but I'm gonna take my book shopping business elsewhere.

They have a very good variety of things in here. It is much larger than it looks like. And there is…read morea downstairs. There are lots of books and also some other things like crafts. They were friendly and checkout was quick. The prices seemed typical for a small, independent bookstore. I did buy some craft things that seemed like a better deal than a large store would have.

Great selection and staff. It's a warm and inviting store and staff were pleasant and helpful. I…read morelike supporting small business so I bought a book. The shop dog found my group suspicious so we didn't get any dog interaction.

Lots to look at in this cozy bookstore and cafe in Friday Harbor. Decent selection of books,…read morepuzzles, games, and souvenirs. Found a great adult coloring book here! Everything is neatly organized and clean. Staff was friendly as well. Will be visiting again next time we are on the island!

What a lovely bookstore! Everything was organized with signage so it was easy to find what you're…read morelooking for. They have a great little nook of children's book with stuffies of popular characters. In the back, there is a little cafe that sold coffee, tea and pastries. I thought it was sweet how when you purchase a book, they give you a complimentary bookmark with the store name and logo. The bookmark is good quality with some thickness.

A cozy little bookstore to browse around leisurely on a cold morning. Staff was very friendly &…read morehelpful. Introduced me to a small Vermont local artist named Beth Mueller, super cute!

Amazing books and staff, with a drop-in book club, espresso bar, fine art prints, and baked goods!…read moreAn old fashioned jewel.

Stopped by to pick up a present for a niece we are visiting in a week. Wasn't sure what a 2 year…read moreold would like. Visit prior during a Mt Vernon sip and shop event some time ago. Really like their selection of interactive toys. Stuff I grew up playing with. Was greeted right away and was very helpful. Browsed for awhile with any questions we had answered. Ended up with some building blocks and a stuffed animal. Price was reasonable as well. Plenty of parking near the river walk. Friendly staff. Good selection. Definitely will return.

Love Love Love Kids Stuff! SO many cool toys, art supplies, games and books. The entire upstairs…read moreis dedicated to books and there are a lot of great toys to help your child's development. Every time a birthday, holiday or just plain fun rolls around I stop in there. Plus complimentary gift wrapping and you can feel great shopping locally!