Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Shelf Life Books

    4.5 (114 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
    Updated 2 weeks ago

    Shelf Life Books Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Shelf Life Books

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Aleece T.

    Absolutely amazing location, fairly large shop with a ton of options, and cats! Need I say more? It was my first time ever visiting Richmond, VA and we found this main street of shops because I was searching for vegan options to try which lead us around the corner to Tiny Vegan. After we got some treats there, we walked around the corner to find this bookstore which was a pleasant surprise! So many cool people browsing books (I made a new friend while in there) and it was such a positive vibe. Their IG is worth following too. They share latest books and stuff. After (or before) you visit, go get coffee nearby and enjoy a stroll through this fun area of shops and more!

    2nd floor used books
    Grisel L.

    This bookstore is amazing! It has the new books on the first floor and tons of used books on the second floor. There are several rooms upstairs to browse through. Everything is organized and there are some books on display to view. On this visit, they had a dedicated table for Halloween themed books and Young Adults. The extensive collection of books they have upstairs is impressive. Lots of Booktok books and favorites were available. They have a couple of house cats to entertain yourself with that make the visit even more fun. If you are looking for a specific book, ask at the register. They have their inventory in their system. On this visit, I found a couple of great books for a bargain. To check the price, you open the book and you will see it written in pencil. Overall, I was impressed with this bookstore and plan to return again. Plus, it's in Carytown. It can't get better than that. Buy a book and stroll through Carytown.

    Heather B.

    This is seriously the cutest book store ever! They have store cats too. There is a wide selection of books and the pricing is very reasonable. They had some old books too, books from the 60s ect. There is two stories worth of books. Everything is very well organized. It was nice to overlook the street below and hearing the sounds of the beautiful hardwood floor creaks below you and people turning pages as they read a book or checked it out. Staff were so nice! At times I saw them helping out other customers.

    Visited by the shop cats! So friendly.
    Abby S.

    If I could live in this bookstore I would absolutely choose to do so. The staff are so friendly and helpful, and I've never brought a question they couldn't help with. They are so passionate about the materials, which is always a plus. Their free bookshelf (outside) can have some unexpected goodies - I even found an advance proof copy there! By far the greatest attraction (other than the cats, of course) is the value. I've picked up probably 15 Stephen King books there - filling out a collection - and they are always wonderfully affordable. I've grabbed first editions (some new 2014 and some older ~1990s) all for under $20. I almost didn't want to post that so no one else would snatch them up!! But this store deserves all the business. I really try and go every week, they constantly restock. Haven't had any experiences on the selling half (because I hoard my book collections), but I know everyone is just lovely here. Cannot recommend it enough!

    The facade may seem small but a whole treasure trove is inside, including a second floor!
    Nicole M.

    Wow. I absolutely adored visiting this bookstore. It had a wide array of new and used titles over a whole slew of genres. The first floor has employee picks, specific highlighted genres (I visited close to election season so there were some thoughtful choices on current history and hot topic issues), and a blind date section where you pick a book at random that has the genre and a one liner description (plus some "take me if you like cuz author or book" notes). The second floor is where you can really get lost in the deep cuts: books on just about anything, from children's books and music theory to history and autobiographies. I walked out with a blind date book for myself and my partner (which we've both read and loved!) plus a couple books that piqued my interest that I needed for my collection or were recommended by the staff.

    Mackenzie C.

    What's not to love about this bookstore? A wide variety of used and new books, book buy backs, and of course the two adorable cats (: this place has two floors of books to sift though. The books are decently priced and the atmosphere is quiet and cozy. Staff at the register was very friendly hand welcoming too!

    Jahmelia B.

    This bookstore is cool. I stopped by on a whim out of curiosity and feel in love. There are so many cool books here that you wouldn't see at franchise bookstores. They also had a ton of diverse books. The store is small upon first glance but it feels a lot bigger as you are strolling thru the store. They also have a nice comic book section too! Great place to buy books.

    Trent B.

    Loved the place, your typical hipster bookstore, great selection, great people!! Books are organized, both used and new. Will return!

    Dianna B.

    Absolutely love used book stores. This one is wonderfully funky and cool! The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, going beyond what they need to do to be of assistance. There is a huge selection of books here, up and down stairs, and some are in multiple places!

    Heather B.

    Very cool bookstore - we stopped in and looked around. Very crowded with people and books as well! No employees said hello, maybe they aren't big on customer service? I don't know. Anyway, very crowded environment, went upstairs and visited the local artists room, which was very cool. Thought they had a cat named WonTon here but alas, we did not see the cat. Darn. Anyway, eclectic bookstore, lots of books squeezed into not a lot of square footage. Judging from the crowds and lack of walking space, it's a popular spot. Worth stopping in, not worth special trip.

    Ansh P.

    I'm sad that they're closed to the public because of COVID, but it's such a cute bookstore right in the heart of Carytown. When everyone can go back to bookstores, make sure to check this place out! When you walk in, you can just tell it's a welcoming place. I do think it's a bit cramped, but it definitely adds to the ambiance of the place. Even though it would worsen the aesthetics, I think it would be nice to have clearer directions about where you can find different genres. Since there are two floors, it took a bit to find my section of books. Beyond that, the staff was super nice, and went out of the way to help us find a good read for my friend! If you're looking for a cool and funky bookstore, this definitely would be #1 on your list. Can't wait to go back when COVID ends :)

    Pretty tile on the way in!
    Jessica H.

    This is a great bookstore with an awesome hip vibe, right on Cary Street. Tons of used books, an awesome old location, and I would have browsed for hours. I love going upstairs and taking my time looking through every section. Only taking off a star for our last experience there. Unfortunately, they are really strict about their "no bags" policy. My husband carries a camera bag with him, and he didn't feel comfortable letting this out of his site. Thus, they refused to let him wander around the store. I kind of think they shouldn't be worried about a guy who is carrying a lot of camera equipment potentially stealing some used books, but what do I know. I feel like they could have offered to check his bag or something as an alternative. Instead, we just ended up leaving a lot quicker. Also, they weren't very friendly about it, a little condescending. So beware- don't bring a camera bag into Chop Suey Books!

    See all

    6 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 0
    Love this 10
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ansh P.
    78
    50
    64

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 3

    9 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Berkley M.

    Berkley M.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Errick P.
    292
    70
    39

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Charlie B.
    117
    137
    96

    7 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joe B.
    586
    979
    5722

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sam W.
    3
    37
    0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kari M.
    40
    29
    2

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jim B.
    518
    193
    7349

    13 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Devin B.
    81
    21
    21

    10 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Shelf Life Books

    Do they have children's books?

    A great selection for all ages!

    View All 3 Questions

    Review Highlights - Shelf Life Books

    More practically, it is simply easier to park in Carytown than it is Shockhoe Slip, which is saying a lot.

    Mentioned in 16 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Small Friend Records & Books - Stickers

    Small Friend Records & Books

    4.4(17 reviews)
    1.0 miThe Fan

    This is the cutest little bookstore. It is a few steps underground and you can find parking in…read morefront of it. It is a very small place, but it is well-organized by genres. They also sell records and have a bargain section for $1 by the register, but those have to be paid in cash. I saw a lot of great books there and was able to find a Wally Lamb book. There were tons of books for such a small space and the books are fairly priced.You can bring books to sell, but only until 4pm. It is worth a visit.

    I popped into Small Friend on a Thursday afternoon. They are tucked downstairs of a cute old…read morebuilding, and are located to the left in a small, neat room. I really appreciated the many genres of books they housed, and how many of the novels centered around magic, anarchy, protest, diverse cultures, etc. they had a great selection of stickers and little trinkets as well, which is fun to look at. I was a little confused because they are a new and used bookstore, but I didn't see used prices on any of the books I picked up, just the sticker prices. They even had signs about them buying books, but I didn't understand really where I could shop used if I so desired. The man at the register was quiet and didn't interrupt my browsing, but was kind when I greeted him and offered to help another guest while I was there. Since I generally don't find myself on Main Street and mostly shop used books, this isn't my fav store in the area, but it's definitely convenient for this part of town and has great stock!

    Photos
    Small Friend Records & Books - Mitski new album early release party

    Mitski new album early release party

    Small Friend Records & Books - Stickers

    Stickers

    Small Friend Records & Books - Entrance, stairwell down from the street

    See all

    Entrance, stairwell down from the street

    RVA Book Bar - Inside

    RVA Book Bar

    5.0(3 reviews)
    2.7 miDowntown

    I can't let Women's History Month come to an end without giving a shout out to a business that is…read moreowned by a black woman. I visited The Book Bar last month during a trip to Richmond. As an avid reader and lover of literature, book stores are kind of my jam. I visited on a Sunday afternoon. The store was pretty empty as there was only one other customer there at the time. The cool thing about The Book Bar is that they sell books and wine! They also have a bar where they do wine tastings. Although I didn't indulge in a wine tasting during my visit, the wine tastings are free! Although they sell books here, this isn't what you'd expect from the typical book store. I think of it as more of a community space where you can buy and/or read books, sip wine, and enjoy good conversation. They also host events here, including author visits. In addition to books and wine, they sell products from other local businesses. I picked up some banana pudding cookies from here made by The Sweetest Thing RVA. Finally, I can't end my review without acknowledging the excellent customer service I received while there. I was immediately greeted by the staff upon entering the store even though she was helping someone else. Then, the employee proceeded to assist me when she had the chance. She asked me what I was currently reading and if I had a favorite genre. I told her that I like historical fiction and she recommended a book for me. The cool thing is she recommended a book that had references to the city of Richmond, which made the book a nice personal souvenir to remind me of my visit. I can't wait to return! Please check them out!

    This brand new bookstore downtown is a VIBE. RVA book bar focuses on black, indigenous and people…read moreof color authors, so it's a great place to buy your next read. When you walk in, you'll find a beautiful, welcoming space. I may have visited too soon after grand opening, as the owner Krystle just restocked her shelves. I went looking for a specific book, which she didn't have at the moment (but could order if I wanted!) and bought another that caught my eye. There is also a whole section for treats, self care items, and goodies. I plan to be back and get some work done with some wine from their selection.

    Photos
    RVA Book Bar - This is such a cute spot

    This is such a cute spot

    RVA Book Bar - Love the setup

    Love the setup

    RVA Book Bar - Inside

    See all

    Inside

    Bargain Books Richmond

    Bargain Books Richmond

    4.6(11 reviews)
    6.2 mi

    I have never personally been to a bigger book selection in my life. Almost worth making the trip…read morejust to come to this place only for the books if you love books. Almost. They even have a decent number of CDs although they are priced higher than many Goodwills. Staff seems to be all volunteer. The staffer I encountered really knew his books like nothing else and he really understood vintage vs newer and how many different categories were integrated with each other. He also understood how some other volunteers might improperly categorize things and where to optimally try to look. He could tell that I had a sense of the different array of things in the store too. I was a bit surprised when he told me that he was here only part time. He was trying to see if he could give me a discount as he could tell I a bit surprised about the CD price. Even told me if I got one more CD or DVD that it would be $1 more. However, it was near closing and I just kept the purchase I had decided on. Two of the three CDs I got turned out not to be a win for me. Lol that is how it goes. He told me he worked here part time. He may've assumed I would come back here regularly. That person can feel free to reach out via private message if he was looking to build something more outside of the store. He was staying professional- and I was starting to get tired from a long trip and didn't want to hold him up from near closing time. He noticed my unique choose your own adventure shirt (with quality choices on the back) stuck out to him as did several other people in public.

    Highly recommend this shop. My boyfriend and I went NUTS and both found a pile each of awesome…read morebooks for a steal. I'm halfway through the first already. All the books are great prices. I found some treasures. Not just books but DVDs, video games, crystals, and other stuff! Almost every book is under $6. The younger girl who was working was really nice and helpful. They have comics, kids books, old and new, something from almost every genre and type. It's a pretty massive place and it was fun combing through their genres!

    Photos
    Bargain Books Richmond - View from the front door- aisles and aisles of books!

    View from the front door- aisles and aisles of books!

    Bargain Books Richmond - Mix of classics and newer novels

    Mix of classics and newer novels

    Bargain Books Richmond - Older vintage stuff

    See all

    Older vintage stuff

    Barnes & Noble Booksellers - Ranger's Apprentice

    Barnes & Noble Booksellers

    3.9(24 reviews)
    2.8 miWillow Lawn, Near West End
    $$

    This is my comfort bookstore. I remember coming to the children section as a kid growing up. And…read morecall me crazy, but Barnes & Noble just has that B&N smell (they should make a candle). This is my go to of the ones in Richmond. It's closest to me too. Like most B&Ns, it's located in a strip mall so there is a bunch of free and easy parking out front. This B&N is just one level. And everytime I come to this one, I am always able to find the book I am looking for. I've noticed that B&N has a lot of gifts nowadays. You can find everything from puzzles to legos to notebooks. I know they've always had this, but it feels even bigger (maybe something to do with their Paper Source partnership). So if you're looking for a book and some cute gifts to go with it, this is the perfect place to do that. It's organized pretty well too. I typically don't need to ask for help when searching for a book. I've gotten everything from fiction to cookbooks to travel guides from this location. It's never too busy (unless it's a holiday like Christmas). They also have the Starbucks corner like most B&Ns do. I'd recommend coming to this location.

    Excellent Customer Service, Very Professional helpful caring Staff I interacted with by phone &…read morein-person! Thank you for your willingness to help customers & maintain organization & cleanliness & a serene atmosphere in Barnes & Noble at Libbie Place!

    Photos
    Barnes & Noble Booksellers - Check out this poem in Tea Time Magazine!

    Check out this poem in Tea Time Magazine!

    Barnes & Noble Booksellers
    Barnes & Noble Booksellers

    See all

    Shelf Life Books - bookstores - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...