Gorgeous bookstore! Spent a good half hour browsing there this morning, and could've spent many more. Beautifully organized, colorful, and decorated space offering a wide variety of books, local gifts, and artisan goods + crafts. I bought "Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi thanks to the thoughtful "staff pick" recommendations they have on little notecards for various reads around the store. They even have a dedicated children's area with a little play space for kiddos, and a cafe serving up baked goods and beverages for purchase. Highly recommend visiting this local neighborhood gem. read more

This was my first time at a book signing and it will absolutely not be my last. Solid State Books is a pretty decent sized bookstore on H street near the Whole Foods and Black owned. On a Thursday evening it was very easy for me to find parking right up front and pay the meter for an hour. The event started on time and we were able to do a Q&A with the authors (who are now NY best sellers, woot woot). After the Q&A we all stood in line to get our books signed. Everything was well organized so the line went by quickly. Kristely at the front desk was super helpful and also helped me out with a glass of wine. This will definitely be my new hangout spot to come and enjoy a drink while I indulge in a new book or two. Thank you so much Solid State for a memorable experience. read more

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Solid State has so many books and such a good vibe! Spent quite a while in here one evening perusing the clearly labeled genres. They had an author panel going on when I wandered in which was interesting to listen to while looking around. Lots of people just sitting and enjoying the evening, playing chess, drinking coffee. Cute personal touch that their employees note which books they recommend and give a one sentence summary of it on the bookshelf. Very cozy and lovely bookstore. read more

Solid State Books - Inside - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I visited the Airport branch of a local DC independent book store. It was a small-ish store but had a lot of great choices for a traveler in need. The guy working there was quick to help customers, but I was just browsing. read more

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This is an interesting bookstore in DC. There's a vast selection of bestsellers, recommendations by staff, books for kids and adults. There is also a section where you can drink coffee/alcohol in the store as well sit down to eat donuts. It's pretty dangerous if you like the idea of reading and munching down a sweet donut. The staff was extremely friendly and were able to introduce me to new books. I did walk out of there with a book about being fluid so that's always cool to see. Their manga selection isn't big but I hope they can add more to their section. I did find that recommendation hilarious! read more

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Love his little book store! I wandered in here on a random Friday while in the neighborhood. A friend of mine had recently released a memoir, so first walked in with the intention of picking up her book here. The space is warm, inviting and brimming with books. I didn't even know where to start so I first checked in with one of the folks working to get a lay of the land. They were able to grab me the book I was looking for immediately, leaving me with ample time to browse. Even just one corner of the store can suck you in, packed in the best possible way with books you may have never considered of even heard of. A 5 mins drop off turned into 45 mins of of exploration and discovery. Independent bookstores are amazing as seem to become a rarer find these days. I would definitely encourage anyone to support Solid State - they have a wonderful range of inventory in a welcoming space with great customer service. read more

Really nice bookstore. A decent selection of books, but what sets them apart are the incredibly upbeat staff, and the seating space, so you can actually stay awhile. They offer coffee, but also alcoholic drinks. Happy hour every day till 7! A nice wine with a book is a perfect recipe for a relaxing night. read more

In a city full of indie bookstores, Solid State Books still manages to stand out as a premiere bookstore in the region. From an excellent selection of books to diverse and varied book clubs, you really can't miss this store for your next read. read more

The staff was rude - almost as if they were annoyed I was interrupting their conversation with my question - which made my experience shopping there unpleasant Store itself was beautiful though read more

Wonderful bookstore with a good selection. I found a fascinating Icelandic novel there, Salka Valka (which I'm reading now), and a Japanese stories book called Voices of The Fallen Heroes (I haven't read that one yet). The staff was very friendly and helpful. read more

Great black owned bookstore! So many options. Love that they have several book clubs that you can participate in. I wish there was a larger cafe with more options, but there's a few on H st to stop at before if necessary. read more

Excellent bookstore! Great selection of national bestsellers, local books, cards and stationary. There are a lot of personal recommendations made by bookstore staff which I love to see! You can buy wine, beer (many local) and cider as well as coffee drinks to hold as you wander around the store or work from their long communal table. They also have a bar where people were working on their laptops. read more

This bookstore has an amazing selection of books from diverse voices and backgrounds. The representation here is a breath of fresh air. I absolutely fell in love with the atmosphere and intention behind this space. I'll definitely be ba read more

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a nice place to sit and work! i ordered a glass of wine and sat at the bar and got some solid work done here before meeting with a friend for dinner. plus everyone who works here is so nice! read more

Solid State Books is a pretty nice and quaint bookstore in the city. My husband and I were looking for a place to do some work so we stopped by. The staff was friendly and helpful. read more

Great selection. I love a good bookstore and this did not disappoint! My niece found 4 books and I got 2 plus my husband got a game. We all left happy. read more

Usually love coming here to get work done -- my biggest and only critique is that the staff often leave the unscreened front door on H Street wide open all day. Today I had a very unpleasant experience that made me have to get up and leave because flying bugs (flies, gnats, mosquitos) were practically swarming around me and landing on my personal items. I'm home now, and I still feel itchy and uncomfortable. I love this place but I just really wish they would either keep the door closed or screen it in someway, because this is a clear issue that really negatively impacts comfort and experience of visiting the store. read more

I went in for a cup of joe, left with $100 worth of books and other items. I love this place! The coffee was surprisingly good, and the book selection was enthralling (clearly). read more

My favorite bookstore in the city - helpful recommendations, great space for children and adults and I appreciate that I can stop in with my dog. If they don't have a book in stock, easy to order and pick up later. Thanks for all you do, Solid State Books! read more

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I'm a big fan of East City Bookstore. But there was a book I wanted that they didn't have in stock, so I decided to try this place. They had the book! The store feels very open & spacious. And they seem to have lots of books in stock. I also loved a sign that was on display. I took a photo of it & am including it with this review. read more

Solid State Books - Love this sign! - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

SUCH A COOL PLACE! The kid section is another level! Our little one didn't want to leave! We will definitely be back. Also bought one of the coolest books I've ever seen - a "photicular" book. Such a great spot! read more

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When the products on offer can be found from many sources, it is the shopping experience and the staff that influence our decisions on where and whether to spend what's left of our disposable income. And after a few years of digesting a spectrum of attitudes and levels of enthusiasm/literary wisdom in District book shops, I had the bad fortune to observe something in Solid State Books that was wholly unacceptable. A young man appeared to be trying to ask several of the staff about questions he had sent by email and hadn't had a response for a few weeks. I gathered he was an author and had been asking for feedback and had some questions about publishing. A large woman came out from the back of the shop and the other staffers suddenly disappeared. The woman threw a book across the counter at him and began angrily accusing him of harassing and threatening staffers. She then said that she did not want 'people like him' in her store. I exchanged glances with several other ladies since we were all in shock at her level of hostility. The young man had been very polite in the store and when confronted, looked as though someone had just slapped him. After thirty years in law enforcement, since something was off and I occasionally refuse to tolerate a mystery, I waited a bit and then exited the store. I tracked the young man down, tapped him on the shoulder and asked what had happened. From what I observed (that day and on others), this particular staffer does not harbor pleasant sentiments toward certain demographic categories. As an older female, I was luckily not subjected to either the fire or ice treatment. Unfortunately for the young author, he seemed to tick all the wrong boxes for her. In any case, her behaviour was inexcusable. Especially when he asked her to please tell him specifically what he had done wrong and she refused. Which brings me to my opening statements: I won't be returning to this location and hope that the two owners consider some effective IDE training for their union shop. BTW, has anyone else noticed the curious similarities in vocabulary and syntax in the majority of the effusive reviews? read more

The people here are very kind and knowledgable. I hope people will continue to support this bookstore as opposed to the chained stores. BTW they also have the BEST DONUTS!!!! read more

I had a wonderful visit to Solid State Books because I was specifically looking for Malcolm Gladwell books! They have a very extensive collection in nonfiction, fiction, and children's books and toys, but I also called them in advance to make sure they had the book I was looking for. The staff were very pleasant and knowledgeable, so I very much appreciated it! Seems like a great place to bring kiddos since there's places to sit and browse books. They had a very diverse collection of children's books with BIPOC protagonists! Plenty of tables around as well to sit and work on a laptop etc. It's a very conveniently located nearby Whole Foods. I would definitely come back! read more

For as long as it took Solid State Books to actually open, it was worth the wait. It's by far the best bookstore in the NE quadrant of Washington, D.C. Here's why: 1) It's accessible: It's right next to Whole Foods on the west end of H Street NE with lots of foot traffic and close to many large apartment buildings. The free street car goes right by it from Union Station. 2) It's large: The space itself is MUCH bigger than the new Politics and Prose in the nearby Union Market District and with it a wider selection of books. They have a local section, a travel section, mystery, politics, you name it! If they don't have a book, ask the front desk and they will order you a copy! 3) It's kid friendly: The entire back left corner is for kids selling a wide range of kid books in a fun space. They have a little amphitheater for children to read on as well as reading nooks and passage ways to explore. Kids love it! 4) It's adult-friendly: In the front, they have a coffee shop brewing Ceremony Coffee and free wifi. There's window seating and table seating for parents as their kids enjoy the kid area. 5) It's educational: They have a great events team bringing in top authors to do readings and signings as well as a stellar kid program. Solid State Books is already one of DC's better bookstores! read more

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The community's 'picture-perfect' bookstore. The enormous selection of books covers the walls, windowsills & display tables throughout this hospitable & friendly shop of books. There is a special small area dedicated just for the little bookworms. Unless I missed it, there aren't any places to sit & read...so pick out your book, pay for it & find somewhere else to enjoy your good read. I like the small 'Staff Pick' cards listed under some of the books giving a quick overview of the author/book. There are greetings cards, buttons, & other reading essentials for retail. As far as prices, a few books I have saved on Amazon are cheaper by a good $15, yet you who doesn't want to peruse the old fashion way to pick out books while supporting this nugget of a local bookstore. & if you can't find a book that you are looking for, they will order it for you. You can join the mailing list to be in the know of upcoming book releases, such as First Lady Michelle Obama's book 'Becoming' on November 13, 2018, book signings & other events. If you are in the H Street Corridor you must pay Solid State a visit. Thank you Ariel for being so friendly & helpful. read more

Beautiful local bookstore with all the good book selections and plenty of copies. I was pleased to see so many hardcover books available. I went for a book signing event for Queenie which was pretty cool. Any bookstore who sells wine is just my kind! I will be returning to this bookstore whenever i'm on H st for more books, stationary and cool knick knacks. read more

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Best children's section in all of DC! I'm so thankful for Solid State Books. The staff is wonderful; they provide a wide selection of books; story time on Thursdays is spectacular for the kids (not to mention the kids reading and play area is so fun!). read more

I love that Solid State opened first as a small "pop up" space! I can't wait to see the full shop, as this preview is very nicely done. Twinkle lights and a fun selection of books and gifts made me wish that I had done all of my Christmas shopping here. I'll be back--welcome to the neighborhood!! read more

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Solid State Books is an indie bookstore, located on H Street. Owned by Jake and Scott, you can find a nice selection of biographies & m emoris, business & money, cooking/food/wine books, health & fitness, humor, history, graphic novels, etc. There are also great in-store events, such as readings, book-signings, and events for children. Interested in joining a book club? There are ones you can sign-up for to share your love of a specific genre, to encourage you to explore great reads, and/or to become more connected with your fellow community members. There are also a selection of gifts and greeting cards that you can purchase, too! A nice place to stop by while you're in the 'hood. +independent bookstore +in-store events +book clubs available +limited off-street parking read more

When one thinks of a Solid State, they think of matter like when water is solid it is ice. This is why I love Solid State Books. Solid State Books is a local owned bookstore and seller. It is a safe place for all people. They have a great selection. Often I would come here to read and teach my daughter how to read in the back of the bookstore in the children section. They also have stickers and pins for everyone. When you walk past Solid State Books, you will realize that they have a large table for all people to read and learn. My favorite book at Solid State Books is the Light We Carry by Michelle Obama! This is why I love this bookseller because they get all the new books. read more

Great selection of books and beautiful location. They have kids section that has a little hole in a bookshelf so the kids can walk through and the adults would have to crouch uncomfortably -- I imagine if I was a kid I'd think it was the coolest. Also we had some trouble finding a book and the staff went above and beyond looking for it for us (to no avail but still!), getting on ladders and searching the tops of all the bookshelves. read more

One of the only true bookstore + coffee shop bookstores in DC! Also some of the best programming among DC bookstores! Staff is super friendly, the collection is diverse, and they have an awesome kids section. I love this bookstore because it fills in a need in a part of dc without many other bookstores and its an open floor plan with so much browsing space which isn't the case at a lot of bookstores. They also have a discounted happy hour deal which is a slay. If you're a bookstore lover, def stop by read more

More than a bookstore, this is a cool neighborhood hangout. Great place to sit and read or catch up with friends. Enjoy a beer, coffee, some kombucha or a glass of wine with your reading material. There are also pastries and other light snacks for sale at the front. The community table in the front seats eight, and invites folks to hang out and stay awhile. The check out counter has a few seats that serve as a small bar top, for additional hanging-out space. The staff are warm, totally welcoming and absolutely wonderful. Oh... and there are books. Lots of wonderful, compelling, thrilling, titillating, enthralling, awesome, amazing wonderful books! But this is more than a bookstore... read more

Solace on Hst!! a bookstore (incl cafe/bar) that is cozy, inviting, and open late hours! closes at 10pm. This is my first time frequenting a bookstore that also operates as a cafe/bar. Terrific business model! Though they give so much to neighborhoods, bookstores (and libraries) are an endangered lot and I am glad that Solid has diversified its revenue source. I've had their coffee (yikes, $5 for iced but its going to a good place) and wine ($8-$10). What really made me fall in love is the spacious lounge area. You can read/study without being shamed for not purchasing a book- just get a beverage lol note: outlets are limited. I haven't really tested the extent of their collection but at a glance I know they have all the current hot reads. They have monthly programs for kids and adults posted. Warms my heart to see them building a sense of community. read more

Solid State Books - Menu- There is alcohol!! - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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4.5 stars. Sizeable indie bookstore with a good selection of beer, wine, and cider (as well as a few very tasty coffee options). I swung by on a Saturday when the store was packed for their morning story time. They had a nice selection of books. It's independent, so you won't find many cheap deals, but you will find a thoughtfully curated set of offerings and events. I got an iced coffee, which was delicious. And they offer a variety of alternative milks too! They don't do fancy coffee drinks, just hot and iced coffee, but it's good quality. They also had some nice-looking cookies and pastries. I was really impressed by the variety of beers they offer in the evening - seems like a fun spot for a date! read more

Solid State Books - This is not even all the strollers at story time on Saturday - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Wow, love this bookstore! Very cute and has tons of great books that I've been wanting to read. Tere's also a cafe with coffee, wine, and beer as well as a few pastries. Very cool to see that in a bookstore. Will definitely be back to read and chill with friends here! read more

It's no secret that I try to spend as much of my time as possible in independent bookstores, so I'm thrilled that DC is full of them. Solid State Books on H St. is a new favorite of mine. I stopped in last Sunday during the rainstorm (where better to wait out a downpour than a bookstore?) and was content to browse and relax for a few hours. Obviously, the most important part of a bookstore is the books. And the selection at Solid State is vast, encompassing a wide range of genres and topics. I spent most of my time looking at new releases and cookbooks. The gift selection is also pretty excellent -- they carry art prints, totes, cards, etc.; don't miss the stationery (the Appointed notebooks!). The front of the store is a coffee shop, with a few seats and free wifi. Honestly, what more could you want in a bookstore??? They host several free events each week that invite authors and speakers to the bookstore. A few nights after my first visit, I went back to see former OKC mayor Mick Cornett in conversation about his new book, The Next American City. The event impressed me. Even on a rainy Monday night, the bookstore was full, and the moderator facilitated a productive, thoughtful conversation on a subject that I didn't know much about. Events like these that foster creativity and community in a city that isn't exactly known for being literary are so important, and I'm excited to keep attending them and supporting this bookstore! read more

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I stopped by Solid State Books with a friend, and I was impressed by the store! It's not the largest bookstore, but they've packed the store with great books and other products. The outside of the store advertises that they have coffee, wine, and more. That made me think that they would have a cafe inside or at least seating to enjoy your coffee and wine. However, there's no seating inside. So any beverages you purchase - you'll be drinking them to go or drinking and shopping. I wish they had a few seats to enjoy the coffee they serve! But it's a really nice independent bookstore with a great inventory. read more

While the bookstore seemed quaint and had ample paper supplies and notebooks (which is what I had come in for), I found it difficult to enjoy my first visit to the store because of an employee having a loud personal problem on the phone. While she apparently needed to find her mattress that had been lost or poorly delivered by Amazon, the customers in the store did not need to hear the conversation that was not very nice to the other customer service representative that she was talking to and LOUD. I understand that we all have things that push us over the edge, but on this particular Sunday morning I couldn't handle the increased anxiety of her conversation and left. read more