Glad I got to check out this beautiful Black-owned bookshop in Oak Park this past weekend. The inside is well organized, every section is labeled (fiction, nonfictions children's, religious/spiritual, cooking etc.), and they also have tons of community resources and products from local businesses. It's obvious that this shop supports progressive ideas and values community and solidarity, they are proud to uplift Black authors and speakers. The workers were really nice and it was lovely walking around and checking out all the various options they have. The location is great at 40 Acres right across the Plant Foundry and around the corner from Old Soul. If you have been in yet, definitely come check it out and support a local business. read more

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I had a great time stopping by underground books today! The selection was great. The value was also great. I got a new book I'm very excited to read. The service was also excellent with the workers being so friendly and quick! I will definitely come back. read more

Underground Books - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Cute little bookstore. Lots of local authors. Friendly staff. They have everything you're looking for... Fiction, non-fiction, children's books, cookbooks, notebooks and accessories and more. Their items are reasonably priced. If you have a few moments in your day, definitely stop in! read more

Underground Books - One of the tote bag designs - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

Excellent selection, helpful and friendly staff. My main draw is the whole vibe or atmosphere. It's a great place to browse and relax.

Great store! I just wish they'd bring back the white long sleeve Oak Park T-shirts people really like them good seller too. They were always sold out then I heard they were discontinuing them. When I wear mine, I get asked all the time. Where did you get that? read more

Dropped in on my lunch break and was able to pick up a couple of gems to add to my collection. The staff was kind, knowledgeable and very helpful. Can't wait to crack open one of my new books. read more

Underground Books - Gems - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

The moment I walked in I felt at home. This is such a historic and charming bookstore. Superior customer service by Hayla and Malaya. There is a wide variety and selection of amazing books and novels that can keep you there for hours with cozy sitting areas. I really love the children area and to top it a selection of soaps, candles and scented oils. The value is beyond superior and a slice of heaven for book lovers. Stop on by but plan on being for hours. You will LOVE it! read more

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Love this bookstore in Oak Park! I appreciate how they have a lot of the NYT bestsellers but also some hidden gems on their shelves to discover. It's a great community space, and you shouldn't overlook their gifts/apparel section (my Underground Books mug is quite nice). read more

For all my book lovers, don't walk, run to Underground Books. I loved the book selections and they have a variety of genre and books that speak to the full human experience. The prices are great and the staff are amazing! I will be returning and looking forward to using the books I use at work and my personal life. read more

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This spot is so cute! You walk in and it's bright and welcoming. Straight ahead and to the left are books with a good variety for children and young adults as well as fiction and non-fiction lovers. If you head to the right they have a market and the check out area and the market has a good variety of snacks as well as some fun products from local business owners. We spent about an hour browsing and ended up distracted by the candles, there were a lot of fun scents to smell. There also had a local pop-up while we were there giving out samples and selling puff corn in different flavors. It was cool to have so much local love here. They have some seats where you can sit for a bit and read or meet up with a friend and the staff were really nice and welcoming while we were here too. We'll have to stop in more often, I could see us getting a lot of gifts especially for our friends with kids here. read more

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A variety of great books to choose from and the staff was friendly. They have a great children's book section. The store felt welcoming, peaceful, and warm. There is a comfortable area to sit and read. Anyone searching for their next favorite book to buy, should visit and support Underground Books, a black-owned non-profit bookstore, and keep an eye out for their next community event. read more

Late Sunday morning, my wife and I walked in after she ate at the nearby Fixins restaurant with her friends. I was delighted to get lost in this bookstore that carries books dealing with the African American story which are showcased here, unlike in the chain stores. Sure, you might find a better price online, but to me that runs contrary to the books we go there to peruse , buy, read and carry within our selves. There are books that that speak to oppression elsewhere in the world. The young ladies who worked in the morning made sure to welcome customers, and make friendly conversations in passing without interrupting the book store shopping vibe. We're definitely going back to the store and the area. I highly recommend the store if you're thinking about it. read more

A neighborhood always needs a good bookstore for a community. Underground is such a place. Current reads both non-fiction, fiction and Children's literature. The component of 40 Acres Market is great featuring merchandise from minority-owned artisans such as; Classy Hippie Tea Co., Natural Annie Essentials, the Sivan Collection and Harlem Candle (just to name a few). IA plethora of greeting cards for every occasion and board games that are unique. I highly recommend shopping here for the Holidays. Support #smallbusiness I discovered this place when I was dropping off a Book Fairy book they were kind enough to exchange with me to #payitforward. Expect to sanitize your hands upon entering and if you are need of assistance I have had the pleasure of speaking to 2 very nice staff members. I'm sure I will be returning often. Respectfully Reviewed read more

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A group of friends came in right after me and immediately sat on the couch, talking about how much they love this place and how often they come here- it's clear to see the impact this place has on the community. Extremely sweet and kind staff, gorgeous book shelves/displays, cozy reading environment and a gift shop section (features handmade goods)! I'm a Sacramento native but I can't believe this was my first time coming here. This is without a doubt where I want to put all of my book money from now on :) read more

Underground Books - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

Amazing, amazing! My favorite bookstore! Not only does Underground Books have a great selection of books and other products, it also transports you throughout history. It's such a special place for me because it's the only bookstore that embraces Black culture and Blackness. I love it! From books by The Obamas to empowering Black children books, it has a focus on creating opportunities for Black creators and artists. I love how they also have local products like amazing-smelling candles. I could be in there for a while, it's that great! They also have AH-MAZING customer service, a relaxing ambience and great prices! You gotta come to Underground Books! :) read more

Underground Books - Amazing local products like this amazing-smelling candle! - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Friendly, helpful and welcoming staff. Great selection of books. Reasonable prices. Beautiful atmosphere.

Stumbled on this bookstore and it is so adorable. I have a 7 month old and they had an amazing selection of children's books and puppets! The staff were incredible and made us feel so welcome upon entering. Everything was very reasonably priced. Certainly a great spot to cozy up and read a book while supporting local businesses! They also featured loose leaf teas, candles and food that appeared to be from other local businesses. Definitely worth checking out :) read more

B L A C K O W N E D!!! I AM HERE FOR IT!!! Underground Books is located on the corner of Broadway and 35th street. It's between the Old Soul at 40acres which is on Broadway and the Guild Theater which is on 35th street (if that makes sense) It's in such a great location. Parking is good but also keep in mind it depends on when you go and what events might be happening in the area. As this is a popular area, it's down the street from McClatchy Park and a stone's throw from Esther's Park. This place is THE place to go. They have so many awesome items. That are All thinks Black (as in people)!! Black (as in people) T-shirts, bags, greeting cards, books, stationary (all Black). They even sell snacky-snacks!! Prices are at a great price point. I definitely have to come back when I have more time to really look and let them take all my money!! The staff ARE SUPER friendly and helpful. I absolutely LOVE this place. read more

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I came to the area to go to Fixins (next door) and while I waited I came across this place. I fell in love as soon as I walked inside. The vibe I was great and the guy and girl at the front counter were nice as well. I was impressed with all the different books. They have a section of kids books too which I loved. I got my god daughter a book called Shades of Black which shows all the different skin tones and hair types of black children to show how it's ok to be different but love ourselves. There are several authors and genres. I will definitely be coming back here and suggest you do too read more

Great store!! So many good book options featuring mostly Black authors and Black characters, along with a selection of LGBTQ+, indigenous and other less commonly featured stories. There is a little YA section, mystery section, fictional and nonfictional sections, and a pretty big children's section. They also have a sale section. They have drinks, snacks and local merch for sale in the other half of the store with some cool shirts. They have a pretty seating area too. It isn't a massive book store but it's an impactful selection. Staff was friendly and prices were fair. Location is great in oak park. read more

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Finally after months of anticipation, the remodeling is nearly complete and Underground Books is back open for in-person masked browsing. The store is absolutely perfect, beautifully arranged and offers a wide selection of reading material. Beyond the books, this store hosts events, community programs and resources adjacent to The Guild Theater. Don't miss the 40 acres market offers snacks and gifts in addition to the books, located on the other half of the store, where the merchandise and snacks are being sold, great gift finds if you're looking for the perfect gift. A wonderful store that I hope to visit more in the future and participate in the many author and speaker events. I've attached a picture of my haul, and again, can't stress enough how good the selection was. Make this your new go-to book stop! read more

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Awesome little book store with plenty of books and gifts to choose from. We enjoyed our visit and left with some good reads! We wish we could have visited before the pandemic so that we could see the events. read more

Amazing! Came across this shop today after a trip to the plant nursery. My sister spotted it first so we decided to take a look in. Bookstores are my happy place, especially local bookstores, so I was excited to see what they had to offer. Underground has a great selection of books with an emphasis on African American literature, an awesome kid's section, & super friendly staff. The interior is gorgeous with the cozy feel that you can't help but love. Everything is beautifully arranged and the atmosphere is very inviting. Next time I'm in the area I will definitely check back in. It's great because it's right next to a cafe so you can buy a book and head over to grab a tea or coffee. Would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys reading and books. read more

Great vibe, and good book selection. While the website can use some work for greater accessibility to all the wonderful things going on there (i.e., book purchase and event notifications), when you go in Mama Rose (owner) makes it worth your while. I chose to visit due to the low number of African-American bookstores left in America (54...). I'm glad I made the visit. I made a new friend, saw GREAT books to read, wished there was a way to support audio books and still support Black bookstores, met a great personality in Mama Rose, got to interact with literary scholars (prepping for event), and got cultural guidance, due to the bookstore being a pillar in the community. read more

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My wife and I visited the bookstore on 2.12.22 around 2pm to look for a book. While my wife shopped, I approached the front counter to ask a question about the puzzles that are sold at the store. I stated that I purchased 2 puzzles from the store and the pieces do not fit well with each other. I also stated that some of the connecting ends of the pieces fall off of the pieces and some of the pictures on the pieces curls up. I then asked if they had received complaints about the quality of the puzzles they sell. The answer was no. I replied that I put together puzzles all the time and the quality of the puzzle that I purchased from Underground Books was poor. I mentioned that I had an unopened puzzle and inquired as to what the return / exchange / store credit policy was at the store. One of the ladies behind the counter said that the receipt stated that all sales are final, which is after the fact. I said that the puzzle quality was poor and I should be able to return it for a refund, exchange, or store credit. A lady stated that they don't 'typically' take back sold items. I asked what does 'typically' mean in this context. It is either you do take back items or you don't. I was then told that they don't take back items because of Covid-19. Huh? She said they didn't want people returning items because they could be bringing Covid into the store from their home. I stated that there may be someone in the store, with Covid, touching books right now. I asked if they were making people buy books that they touched. I asked if they sanitize books after a guest touches the book. Each reply was no. The lady then stated that they "will take this under consideration". Take what under consideration, I replied. She then repeated herself, further escalating the situation. She never asked for my name and phone number so that, while taking my situation 'under consideration', they could contact me if they decided to side with me. She never stated that a manager would get back in touch with me. Just "we will take this under consideration". The clerks missed an opportunity here and seemed condescending during this interaction. If my wife hadn't intervened, I would probably still be discussing this with the clerks. For the life of me I cannot think of a reason why they would not take back an unopened puzzle for store credit. The purchase does not come off of their ledger and if I don't use all of the store credit, they come out ahead. Regardless, they would've had a happy customer. I understand books not being exchangeable or fully refunded, as they can be read and exchanged for another book. But a puzzle? I think some additional training is in order. read more

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I enjoy supporting Black owned businesses, this bookstore is beautiful & phenomenal. Staff is warm and welcoming. I love the other support of them having other black owned businesses. Very dangerous for my wallet. I will be returning! read more

While visiting Sacramento, CA, my daughter took me to this wonderful bookstore. Underground Books is beautifully arranged and decorated with books and gifts for every avid reader! Autobiographies, social commentaries, children's, cooking, journals, cards, gifts, and so much more. I HIGHLY recommend stopping by if you're visiting Sacramento!!! You can also shop online at https://www.sthope.org/underground-books-home. read more

Underground Books - Tote and t-shirt from Underground Books! - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

Wonderful book store located in Oak Park. They have a great selection of diverse books, and it was amazing to be able to browse through. Staff was super friendly and helpful, and they have a good selection of cute kids books as well. Will definitely be back read more

I adored this location. I'm from out of town and was visiting a friend. She wanted to show me around her neighborhood so we walked to a cafe nearby. A door or two down we passed Underground Books and went in because we are a sucker for books (as any good person is). There only seemed to be one woman working and she was very kind. She asked if we wanted help but we politely declined since we were just checking the place out and had nothing in particular in mind. The place reminded me vaguely of something I had seen on a television show before but I could have been thinking of another place. There seemed to be some sort of a meetup on the other side of the store happening, which seemed really lovely, and love that this establishment is offering the opportunity to join a community. If you're curious about this spot, give it a chance. Who knows... you may end up leaving with a new friend! read more

My first time at Underground Books was when I attended the Black Women Tell Tales writing group. I wondered around that book store like a kid in a candy shop. To see such a variety of books written by black authors was inspiring; especially to me since I was struggling with my literary voice. Mama Rose mild manner and helpful demeanor educated me on some of the Authors. The atmosphere is inviting and calming. read more

Perfect little gem for African American literature both fiction and non fiction. Helpful staff, ( helping locate books as well as offering suggestions) it has a perfect ambiance for a book store. This is a book store with a little something for everyone. Children adults . On our first visit we left with books for my son (10 years old) , he wanted a book series that had 4 books in the series and the store only had 2 of the 4. They were able to place an order for the other 2 and they were ready for pick up within a week. My daughter ( 5 years old ) left with about 2 books and she had the hardest time picking only 2. She originally came to the counter with 5 books!! I left with a book to read for my own enjoyment. I've decided to make this a month outing. Come to the area grab some food and then grab a good book to read. read more

I was a first time visitor to Underground Books, it was a nice looking store. The staff was nice I had the opportunity to meet the owner Mother Rose, she was awesome! read more

This is such an awesome local book store! Great selection of books, and they have super friendly staff! They also have a legit selection of snacks, which I wasn't expecting at all at a book store. It's the only place that I've seen Rap Snacks! Even if you don't buy books often, come check out their snack section! read more

Love this spot. It's super charming and the prices are great. Took my niece and she was amazed. REPRESENTATION MATTERS! She can't wait to go back! Thanks to the staff too! They're great. read more

This bookstore is owned by Mayor Kevin Johnson's mother (a doll!) and stocks books that are by or feature African Americans. It's very comfortable inside and the prices are very reasonable. There is a $1 stash of books in a treasure chest in the back corner. The staff is extremely friendly and they will always chat you up about other upcoming bookish or other artistic community events. When I first was a customer, they took my name as I paid and now, every time I go back in my name must pop up in their computer system since, after looking at the screen, they will always give me a peppermint or other small mint. I think it's great that they actively trying to build relationships. From seeing stuff in their displays they also frequently have book signings or talks with the author. I've never been to one, but I think it's wonderful that this small bookstore can bring in big names. I love this independent bookstore in Oak Park and I wish that more people would stop by. read more

Underground Books - From: http://kcra.cityvoter.com/underground-books/biz/25052 - Bookstores Near Me - Sacramento, California

My favorite bookstore in Sacramento! Mother Rose was the kindest person and was very patient with me as I paid her in mostly quarters. Love everything about this place from the book selection to the community events to the people. I will continue coming back here for as long as I live in Sacramento! read more

A must visit for books, gifts, yummy scents, and just plain old good company. Oh! Forgot to mention, outstanding service!!

I love this place. It has such a cool and inviting vibe. Their selection of books for young readers always pulls me in.

Great selection of books all at reasonable prices. Staff was friendly and helpful. I bought an armful of books and could have easily bought more. It's good thing to support your local bookstore. I suggest for all book lovers and horizon broadeners to visit this store! read more

Very easy online ordering process. The book arrived within the week (just in time for the birthday party!), and picking up was a pleasant experience. Ideally, you'd bring your order number. However, I didn't have mine. The person working was very relaxed about it and looked up my order. They introduced us to the limited browsing section (eyes only!) while we waited, and we ended up buying a children's book on display. Highly recommend this shop! read more