This place is great. The owners are fantastic. It's family run, which we should all support more often. It's got anything you could imagine, but the quality of all their products is just better than what you would find at Staples or OfficeMax. They accept all major credit cards and don't have a limit on how much you need to spend to use one. A Cambridge institution! read more

The nicest people in Boston that I've met!! Gale is such a sweetheart - never turning anyone away and always there with a helpful hand. They have a great selection of anything you need, the prices are great and the company is awesome. I would recommend this to anyone in a heartbeat - even if it was just for the conversation read more

University Stationery - The left building with the yellow pencil is where the store is!! Masslive News Photo - Office Equipment Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Looks nice and I have heard good things about then, and was able to stop one when I worked in the area years ago, but their hours are just too restrictive: only M_F 9 Am 0 2:30 PM ??? Unless you work in the area, not really convenient. read more

If you are just you, go to University because they've got everything you need and if they don't, they can get it for you. Fast. If you are an office manager or other person responsible for the supply ordering for a company, you need to explain to your CFO or controller that NO volume discount from a disgusting conglomerate like Staples (whose CEO made more money last year than probably every single one of his employees, combined) is significant enough to trump AMAZING personal service (first name basis, sometimes same-day delivery if we're desperate) and a real, honest-to-goodness small business who really delivers and really makes you feel good about spending your money with them. We couldn't be happier and every time the Staples or WB Mason reps call, I tell them "thanks, but we have used the same mom-and-pop [technically bro-and-sis] outfit for 20 years and have NO PLANS TO CHANGE. EVER. GO AWAY NOW." We love University and the administrators here would be dragged kicking and screaming from the building before we ever switched. Not for nothin'. read more

This place is a hoot ! I love talking with the owners. They have the goods from greeting cards to USB drives, novelties, gifts, etc. You get great service here every time. It's not like going to Staples, or Walgreens, and wondering, oh, will they be able to help me find what I need without calling somebody else in to consult... Service is so rapid and friendly, you'll enjoy chatting with the staff and owners with the time you saved. read more

Just had an amazing and typical experience at University Stationary with my heroes, Gail and Barry Seidman. They just helped us find and install a part for an Automatic Numbering Machine. We had looked online for replacement pad and ink and we saved money and our sanity by checking in at University, before we ordered. The part was a 3/4X 1/8 inch felt pad. Online it cost $7.95 plus shipping. At University, it cost $2.95. Barry helped me install it and Gail made a copy of the directions for my machine which I had long lost, from a newly boxed version of my gunked up model. This is something that big box stores would like to emulate but cannot fully pull off. They will have many excellent employees,who give their heart and soul to their work but corporations are organized to value and reward profits. As good as the employees will try to be, their corporate masters worship the "bottom line" and never care about the product/s they way people like Gail and Barry and their staff do. This small store values their customers and really understand the needs of the people in the the field they service. read more

What a great place! While stocking up on supplies here, we noticed an inexpensive St. Joseph, about 9.5 cm tall -- just the gift for our friends trying to sell a condo. We bought and mailed it and, within a few weeks, the condo was under contract! Just sayin' Thank you, University Stationery! A Central Square landmark. read more

As the office manager for a boutique financial firm sometimes last minute projects come up. We have a very important client meeting tomorrow and I needed to get a special binder that my supervisor prefers for all presentations. Typically I order from big box stores like Staples however needed the binders the same day. I called around to many places and as it was after 12 pm I was unable to order them from WB Mason. I found University Stationary online and called to see if the binders were in stock - they were in their warehouse and Barry said he could have a courier deliver them to us in a few hours. We received the binders before we knew it and I was so happy to present them to my supervisor as she really didn't want to get another kind. The customer service was above and beyond and really helped me in a pinch. I will definitely order from them again! read more

I'm about to write a raving review about a cramped office supply store, so it must be all about the customer service. :) As mentioned by others, the store is essentially a hole-in-the-wall crammed to the rafters with every kind of office essential you can imagine. You can't really run in here and expect to grab something on your own and book out. Good thing, then, that the owners seem to know exactly where everything is and can come up with the perfect solution for your needs! I found this place when I was looking for a filing box for business cards (which, oddly enough, none of the Huge-Ass Stores seem to carry) - I called on a Saturday, got the owner at a home number (I think?), but she was helpful and told me to come in during the week. When I did, they immediately hooked me up with the perfect item and tacked on a 20% discount, then foisted free pens on me as I left. I don't buy office supplies frequently enough to know if they're competitively priced, but manila folders were priced the same as at a Huge-Ass Store, and having employees who know what they're selling and value my business is totally worth a few extra pence. Super Bonus: The owner thinks setting minimums for credit/debit card use is total BS, and any store who does that "should be reported immediately to the credit company for violation of their contract". Yeah, what he said! read more

This place is awesome. The service is great and the price is surprisingly low. I have been looking for a pocket size index card holder and some binder inserts for business cards. I couldn't find them at Target or MIT Coop, after reviewing all the great Yelp reviews, I decided to give this place a shot. Thanks to Yelp, I found exactly what I was looking for and at prices a lot lower than I expected. It's hard to find things in this store, but don't worry, they will help you to locate the item. I love Mom & Pop places, but I have to admit most of times, I give in to Wal-Mart or Target for its prices and selection. Or sometimes I avoid mom and pop, because if the store is empty, I feel bad not to get anything and walk out. Anyway...both of my usual concerns do not apply to this store. The price is great, the service is great but not too attentive that makes you feel bad not to get anything. And on top of the already great prices, they offer 20% discount to students. And it's 5 min walking distance from MIT dorms. Bottom line: This place is awesome! Check it out before you shop at the big buys or Coop. read more

Great selection, affordable prices, love the staff/owners. The shelves are stacked to the ceiling, wandering the aisles is magical, cross between Olivander's and a broom closet (it's tiny). They have a dedicated moleskine carousel, for those in NEED, but also a heaping selection of scientific/analysis formatted notebooks. For those of you looking for a frugal brianstorm, legal pads are $.99 (not the cheapest, but local stationary store good vibes are priceless). read more

The friendliest, most helpful people...they will lean over backward to get whatever you need in the way of office supplies, always with a warm smile. I enjoy going into a real mom & pop store rather than the cold, untouchable chain stores. It's always fun just to browse around. I sometimes even leave with a hug! read more

I needed some nice stationary to write a letter, and I came upon this little store. Even though the store is small, it seems to have a much better selection of things compared to Staples or the Coop. The owner greeted me and helped me find what I needed quickly. Because I only wanted one sheet of paper, the owner offered it to me for free (I insisted on paying though)! Growing up with large chain stores my whole life, I felt the service and charm of the store was truly unique. Plus the prices aren't much different than Staples and probably cheaper than the Coop - I did get a good deal on a Moleskine notebook. I will definitely return there anytime I need office supplies or stationary! read more

I am writing this review having never bought anything here even though I lived blocks away for five years. It wasn't after I'd moved to DC when I returned for a visit that I finally walked into this store. Before a lunchtime meeting, I realized that the zipper of my suit pants were mad at me and would only stay up for about 2 minutes before drooping inevitably down. I walked down the street hunched into my jacket trying to mentally engineer a solution until I bumped into University Stationery. I walked in and asked, really begged, for A safety pin - no not a box, but I will buy a box if I need to, all I need is one... Surprisingly they didn't sell safety pins or were out of them. As a very nice older lady rooted through her desk drawers for one, she told me the story of how one day a poor young man had walked into the store asking also for a safety pin, because he needed them to hold his pants up. She chuckled at this story, but in the midst of telling it, had miraculously dug out not one, but two safety pins (just in case). I thanked her profusely and triumphantly safety-pinned my pants together. If you're reading this, don't go to the Coop. The nice people at University Stationery will find whatever you need, even if you need your pants put back together. read more

They were nice and friendly in the store when I shopped there. I am writing this though, because I am disappointed in their biodegradable pen selection. I even provided suggestions for products they could add, which I would buy, but they turned those suggestions down. I have been trying to buy more from local businesses instead of online, but I will probably choose online retailers with more innovative product selection. read more

I really super love these guys. I cannot imagine why anyone would ever choose to go to an awful box store knowing that everything you need for your office or school work is here, and there are smiling faces at the register. Oh, and did I mention that their prices are better on pretty much everything and they even have a few cute toys to distract you. Yay! read more

I love shopping here. echoing the other reviews, they have unbelievable service, and lots of useful stuff. They can also order almost anything. Definitely ask for what you're looking for, it's pretty hard to find it yourself. Part of what makes it fun is that they seem to genuinely love stationery supplies! read more

University Stationery is a great place to buy lab notebooks and pens and pencils. The store is packed with stuff, literally, and sometimes things can be hard to find. The staff is inviting and helpful, though, and will make sure you find what you're looking for. They provide a student discount and always give you something free with your purchase. read more

Incredible people, diverse selection, great location, and awesome student discount. Go here before you go to staples, office max, etc. It will be an easier and more enjoyable experience! read more

I love this place. They've gotten me out of many-a-jam. I feel eternally prepared with these guys on my side. AND they deliver! Also, they guarantee that their prices either beat, or match Staples. It's so important to shop locally and keep these guys going in our ever-changing community of Central Square. They've been there for 3 generations, I believe. It's our civic responsibility! read more

Update: This place looks much bigger and more spacious when I walked in this afternoon. I needed a shipping box for my college textbooks. Previously I looked at Staples, OfficeMax and CVS but they were either too expensive or in Staples case, they sold it in bundles and did not sell it in stores. Wasn't gonna wait and not gonna deal with the hassle from the big store companies. I didn't think about this place until it came to my mind. I emailed them to see if the shipping box was available. They said I could pick it up after 10:30 the next day. It was less than $5 and very affordable, especially for the college student. This place really cares for the customer and deserve some praises. Love this place and would go back again for my textbook shipping and college supplies needs. read more

Outstanding customer service. I needed 21 log books within 24 hours. After hours of scouring the internet and calling every major chain retail and getting replies like "I dunno, can you hold?" I stumbled upon this gem of a store. Within minutes Gail had called her warehouse and made this come together for me. Many companies aspire to this service but very few provide. read more

I've only been here once so far but I really enjoyed it. It's run by a group of friendly older men and women who have very amusing and endearing banter with each other. They are extremely friendly and considerate and very much willing to do discounts! I got a good deal on a set of moleskin notebooks and have a wide selection of pens. I'd definitely recommend servicing them over a big store like CVS or Staples as they're local and have pretty much the same prices. read more

I've bought some fun office supplies here, like staplers that look like ladybugs and finger flashlights. Stop in sometime, if you're lucky enough to be there when they're open. read more

Nicest people working here! Very helpful and helped me find exactly what I needed :) Definitely will be back the next time I need supplies

You will be impressed! Without a doubt, the best customer service ever. Barry, the owner, is very friendly and helpful. I'll never shop at another Staples or Office Max again! Also, the owners are very supportive of local college students and are very generous to MIT. read more

A neat little stationary store - I'm amazed by how much stuff they have crammed in here. I came here once to buy staples for my beloved shark stapler. The proprietor educated me on the differences between Tot and Cub-sized staples, and sent me on my way with the proper ammunition for Sharkypoo. read more

Fairly big stationery store. They have lots of school and office supplies, but not so many cute pens/pencils or cards. You will find unique things like wax seals/stamps. read more

I went in. And the salespeople were still the nicest, most knowledgeable salespeople I have ever dealt with. I'm buying a spiral book binding machine for my office. I had questions. Lots of questions. Some questions the nice people at University Stationary couldn't answer. Instead of making something up, or telling me they didn't know, they arranged for me to take a look at some of the machines. I don't think five stars can express how thankful I am to have found this place. They are still the best! read more

I've always been a fan of small, independently owned businesses and University Stationery is certainly among my favorite in Cambridge. Don't be fooled by their small size, as this place carries everything from erasers to Peoples Republic of Cambridge t-shirts. If they don't have something in stock, the cheerful employees are always more than willing to order it while offering you a brief conversation on the side. University also offers a student discount. I left my ID at home one day, but my brass rat was sufficient proof of (then) student status to get my discount. read more

Great variety, great pricing, lovely people. Highly recommended.

This place is simply the best, hands-down. Their customer service is simply unparalleled. They are helpful, courteous, and will even offer you something that is cheaper as an alternative. How's that for honesty! Don't be fooled by the small square footage--they have a huge selection, which is much better than the big box stores, and if they don't have it, will promptly order it for you. Aside from standard everyday office supplies, I have gotten envelopes for wedding invitations, arts and crafts supplies for my kids, favors for birthday parties (which were not only cheaper but also more appreciated than the standard bag of junk plastic from Target), and birthday gifts for kids. If you are thrifty this place is great because they tack on a discount if you are from MIT. read more

University Stationery--Such fabulous, personalized, professional service at a competitive price! Gail and Barry know the business inside and out. They know their product lines in depth and they treat their customers as individuals. For example, I walked in this week, unannounced, and Gail said "I bet you're here for that special calendar you ask for every year. We have it for you." She went and got it and put it in my hands! How did she remember? You can never get this kind of service at the discount chains and it is just wonderful to experience. There is kind of an old world CHARM to University Stationery, and it is a great place to find creative gifts, too. read more

If Diagon Alley had an office supply store, it would look like University Stationery. The tiny shop is stuffed store-to-ceiling with office supplies, which the friendly storekeepers will gladly fetch for you. If you need only one of an item, they'll open a package and sell you just one for pocket change. SO CHARMING! read more

This place is great. The prices are very reasonable, and there is a huge selection in a relatively small store. They have the Pilot G2's that I like, in both pencil and pen versions! The owners are super nice - I just feel good going here. I'd pick this place over Staples any day! read more

Fantastic place. It's small, but they manage to fit a ton of stuff in it; I've never been unable to find something I've needed. The people who run it are really nice and extremely helpful. Shopping here is such a different experience from shopping at a large chain store! read more

This store is the best. The owners are great and will order anything that is not in stock. In addition to the common stationery items , they'll bewilder you with novelty items at the register, such as handerpants. read more

I wanted a pen, they had pens. Maybe I'm just an easy customer but they deliver.

This is among the last of this breed of stores. It is a small shop (although quite packed). The proprietors are friendly, helpful, and most importantly, have a deep knowledge of the products they sell. This is a very high quality shop, and there aren't many left like it. I buy all of my stationary and office supplies there, in part due to the very high quality service, but also in part, just because I like having stores this good around. read more

It's like walking into a time capsule. They have excellent service, and an even better selection. They keep around the real office products that you can't seem to find at big box places. read more