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    Uncharted Books

    4.3 (63 reviews)
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    Denyce M.

    I am old school when it comes to reading. I do books, the paper kind. Electronic forms of reading for pleasure have no interest for me. I love the intimacy of holding a book, the feel of the pages and my eyes caressing the words. It's not that I can't read books online, I just don't get the same level of pleasure from doing it. The last time I was in a bookstore was in NOLA several years ago. I loved being in there, just wandering around, looking at the titles. I prefer used book stores because of the smell. I like the exploration of new titles, pulling the books off to read the notes, occasionally finding some handwritten note that makes me chuckle. I haven't had the opportunity to do that recently until this little gem opened up. I am very big on supporting local and this place has my support. I love that there is a place in the neighborhood that allows me to just gaze upon rows and rows of books. The shop is small, but well laid out with a nice selection of books across multiple topics. I think there is probably a topic to meet most people's reading pleasure. I have been in the store twice and my biggest concern is that I am going to become a hoarder of books. What made me happy the first time I went in was The Queen pulling a book off the shelf of a collection of Mad cartoons and me finding a book about Lady Jane Grey (great read so far). What I love about having a store like this in the neighborhood is that I get to find books like this I may not been aware of at a decent price and I don't have to travel far to do so. And it is down the street from the Hopleaf, so I can pop into Uncharted Books after having some bubbles. The staff is very nice (on both visits) and you can totally wander around and take your time. The store itself is very tidy and the books are in good condition. I guess they have events that happen in a secret room behind a door that looks like a bookcase. I would like to check them out...wonder if I can bring drinks :-) So glad Uncharted Books has opened. Welcome to the neighborhood and thanks for giving me back the ability to just wander among books again. Lovely way to spend some time. Please support this business so I can have a place to go and get used books. I thank you.

    Alyssa R.

    The staff is incredible! I came in with a genre and they helped me find 3 books that I cannot wait to read. There is also the sweetest dog there keeping an eye on things. This place is going to be dangerous for me; I worry for my wallet.

    Michael B.

    Three floors of books. You'll find what you want here and then some. Uncharted Books is a bookstore by the Jack Kerouac Alley in San Francisco's Chinatown. Its long history with the Beat Generation makes it an interesting place to research as well. The bookstore itself is a relaxed place with THREE FLOORS OF BOOKS (if I didn't make it clear earlier). The top floor has an exclusive rocking chair and a room dedicated to the Beat movement. If I had more time to spare in SF, I can see myself spending days reading books in the rocking chair on the third floor. It's an astonishing, satisfying place with a lot of history behind it. Staff is helpful and kind. Book selection is phenomenal. Highly recommend for those looking to buy books in the city. FYI -- No used books though, everything here seems to be all new. 5/5.

    New Andersonville location!!
    Kathleen C.

    FYI as of July 1 this spot moved to its new location in Andersonville!! I've never been to its old spot but its new building is super cute and lovely. Sweet Ramona (?) the precious bookstore dog awaits you . This bookstore is mostly great used books with a small new section, too. In the back room they have a fun grab bag section of mystery bags of books labeled with categories for like $5-10 which is cute. Prices seemed super fair! Go to this book store

    Ramona
    Melanie S.

    Sign on the door: "I assure you we're open." Uncharted Books should get an automatic five stars just for a Clerks reference right out of the gate. I love bookstores, specifically used bookstores. I love the randomness. I especially love the smell: faintly musty, but not in an unpleasant way. As soon as you walk in, you're sure to be greeted by Ramona, the store's resident dog. The friendly owner, Tanner, will also immediately thank you for coming him. And there's deep sincerity in his voice. Uncharted Books sells only used books, but many of them are "like new." Prices vary, but overall are very fair. Plus you're supporting a local, independent chain, something we could all stand do a little more. The variety of books runs the gamut, but UB specializes in contemporary, literary fiction. I bet you'll find an unexpected treasure. It's pretty hard not to. Don't miss the basement--many other goodies abound: art and music books, science fiction and other quirky reads, and interesting artifacts like mummies and statues. Uncharted Books hosts free events and is conveniently located near the Logan stop on the Blue Line. If you're a bibliophile (or even if you're not), be sure and check out this literary haven.

    Book Love!
    Crystal R.

    BIBLIOPHAGIST is the perfect term to describe moi! I love, love, love books this place only only ignited my flames of passion. Uncharted Books should also be known as Uncharted Territory of Awesomeness. Look around places likes this are far, few and in between. As soon as you walk in the melodies of life happen to be playing in the background and simultaneously putting your soul at ease. The place is decorated in pure vintage form. You will find an array of used books that range from classic literature to non-fiction. Score! The atmosphere encourages you to relax, take a seat, and explore your creative juices. This lovely gem of a book store also can host private parties if needed. Also, you can sell your books here as long as you comply with the store's requirements. Oh how can I forget to mention the prices were also very reasonable...This place has stolen my Book Worm's little heart!

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    Ask the Community - Uncharted Books

    Do you also buy?

    Hi Susan! We purchase books from noon to six on Mondays and Tuesdays. If you'd like more info about the kinds of things we're able to purchase, we have guidelines posted on our website. If you still have questions, definitely give us a call. :)

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Uncharted Books

    It's a nice space, they're alway throwing events and readings, and Ramona is a beautiful store dog!

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    What a gorgeous location to have a bookstore! Sandmeyer's Bookstore sits in Printer's Row and is a…read morevery lit and airy environment. The selection is not too bad, considering they are recovering from a flood. There are so many titles and a vast array of topics available. I found some classics, fiction, a wonderful selection in their non-fiction area, and translated books. They also provide you with lists of books that have won prizes or coincide with different regions in the USA and the world! I thought that was very helpful. It's a medium-sized store, but their displays are quite prominent. Everything is easy to grab (no ladders or staff needed to get to the high books). All the areas are labeled and it's visually pleasing. The staff was nice, too. Checkout was easy and they were friendly. Prices are standard of paperbacks and hardcovers. You are paying for an indie bookseller (I paid about $40 for two books, which includes tax). I wasn't at all disappointed with the price. They also have a loyalty program for those that are regulars. I really am happy I checked out this spot. It was beautiful and friendly. There was a lot of books and totes to chose from, it was hard not to leave with more in my bag!

    Uncharted Books - bookstores - Updated May 2026

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