I went today to pickup a book at Wellesley books. When checking out, at the front register of Wellesley Books on Washington St. Wellesley, the woman who is tall and in 60s put on the so sweet fake attitude. I said it was a hard book to find. She said it's popular and everyone loves it. Be sure to come back and tell us what you thought of it. When I brought up a historical fiction book I had just finished, related to current times, her attitude totally changed and a condescending disapproval shown through clearly. I don't go to book stores for that and I will not go back. read more

Classic independent bookstore. Staff was super friendly, space is bright, great selection. Basement has used books but we didn't have time to go through them-will be back read more

COVID-19 review: Nice local bookstore. They are currently doing curbside as well as I store shopping. They are monitoring the number of patrons and kindly requesting people make a reservation when possible or waiting until there is enough space. Everyone is asked to use hand sanitizer when entering so that merchandise can be handled. There are barriers between the register and customers & I was asked to hold the books UPC out so the staff never touched my purchases. The credit card swiper is on the customer side as well for completely touch less purchasing. Great job! read more

Wellesley Books - All the cool YA books - Bookstores Near Me - Wellesley, Massachusetts

Good bookstore vibe. Nice people. Very efficient in finding a book I was looking for. Answers the phone directly (no menu to go through).

I thoroughly enjoy browsing here. I do wish that there was more shelf space, and that some of their sections (e.g. history) were expanded and organized in a way that would make it easier to browse volumes all on a given topic. The teens and children's sections are plentiful. read more

Great bookstore! Friendly staff with endless selection of new Fiction - a great place to spend an hour or two while you're in Wellesley. Be sure to check out the discount selection in the basement - the staircase is toward the back of the store, and had a lot of books that I had just been considering upstairs! read more

Wonderful bookstore! They were excellent throughout Covid, and even wrapped and delivered a birthday present to my house during the pandemic! They're always happy to give advice and are incredibly knowledgeable about books, reading levels for kids, and popular lists. We are so lucky to have this shop in Wellesley!! read more

I love the Wellesley Booksmith. There's a wide selection of new and used (check out their basement!) books and other media, and they also sell little witty tchotchkes and gifty design items. I have bought stocking stuffers here for the past few years. They're independent, and there's not much better than that in the world, and I've enjoyed their visiting authors nights for the past nearly two years. The staff pulls no punches, and will tell you whether a book or an author is honestly good, or if it's/they're honestly just a hyped-up money-maker. Besides being a local independent bookseller, they sell books written and published by local authors. I have found several Wellesley-specific books that have helped me to learn more about my immediate surroundings. This is the exact kind of value I'm looking for - the value of a local relationship. The hours aren't always ideal, but so what? It's not the internet. read more

This a a great little LOCAL book shop. The staff is friendly and will help you find the book(s) you're looking for. It's a great place to shop for gifts, since the displays of books are very organized, and they have a section of jewelry and small non-book gift options as well. (A solar powered waving Mona Lisa statue had me laughing - for an example of a small non-book item.) I stopped by looking for a specific book but I didn't see it on the shelves. An associate found it for me quickly, brought it to the register, and gift wrapped it for free! There is no downside to shopping here, and you can feel good that you're helping the local economy by doing so! read more

Purchased tickets for a meet and greet with Bobby Orr in October. Unfortunately we were in a car accident on the way there. Now, January 16th, I called and they had 3 copies I bought, signed! They are being shipped as I type this. I can't say how impressed we are with the service of the bookstore. We missed the event, but will be able to enjoy the books. Thank you so much!! read more

Understaffed on a busy Sunday. One woman trying to do everything. No way to buy books displayed outside without going inside. Very inconvenient for older, covid compromised people who can't go inside stores. They make a big production of letting people in and out of the store but when I offered to pay for my books without going inside, all of sudden it wasn't so important. A little pompous and always overpriced. read more

This is a super little bookstore! Picture one of the bigger stores and then subtract all of the sub par books, you'll end up with Wellesley Booksmith. I had to be careful because just after a few minutes I had a large stack of books in my arms to add to my already growing stack of Christmas book schwag. The staff is also very knowledgable and helpful. They tend to remember you and can suggest books that you might enjoy which is always nice. Parking in the BACK (and lots of it). read more

One of my favorite bookstores of all time. It's small, but the staff has carefully chosen its stock and almost always has what I want (and will happily order what they do not have.) The staff is very helpful and pretty knowledgeable. I am always surprised by how familiar the staff is with their stock and with current literature. They can often tell you right where something will be without even looking it up! In the back is a nice area for little ones -- a small table is surrounded by kids books placed at their level so they can browse and read on their own. There is a bean-bag like bear to lounge on, too. They have all the popular kids books, and a good selection of educational, non-fiction stuff for children as well. Downstairs is an area for used books, where you can find some great deals. Up front are great gifts and other non-book items. Finally, like all Booksmiths, they have lots of events and programs, all of which are listed in a newsletter. When authors come, they have them sign extra books so you can still find an autographed book, even if you missed the event. The Booksmith is everything your local bookstore should be and more. It is a book store that loves books and the people who read them. So come support your local bookseller! It is not just a store -- it is a community. read more

The Wellesley Booksmith is the perfect place to shop for children's books. I've been a fan of the Brookline Booksmith for a few years now, and was eager to check out the Wellesley branch since I heard they have an excellent children's section and my husband and I are expecting our first child in about 5 weeks. We stopped by today and the store was absolutely wonderful. A very sweet woman showed us around the children's section and pointed out where the board and picture books were, signed us up for emails, and told us all about the special book signings and readings that the store has. It makes me so happy that a store like this is only one town over from where I live. I look forward to shopping here for many years to come. read more

I love this book shop. I have "weird taste" in books, often seeking out books that are not currently on the best-seller lists, but that have some je ne sais quois that makes them stick in the reader's mind. I find that the staff-curated shelf of "staff picks" books always has something that I'm intrigued enough by to splurge on. The staff is helpful and there are a lot of cute gift options and kids' books. I would park in the back lot, as this area of Wellesley is busy and on-street parking can be hard to find. Good place to stop into when you want to buy a little something for yourself, (but not a frappucino or pedicure.) read more

Very good bookstore. Key word, "very good".... not the BEST though. Having a bookstore, and preferably a small, locally owned bookstore (such as this) is always pleasant, and something I wish my little town of Westwood still had (Annie's Book Stop closed in the 1990's). This store in general is updated, new and just keeps on going. They are consistently drawing in customers due to many events they hold. The discount basement is like a treasure chest and in general, I have always been able to find exactly what I am looking for (if I'm actually in search of something). In general, staff are friendly and do a well job keeping the store organized and clean as well. They have the books organized by topic in the store (no shock, right!), and continue to maintain every department with a fair amount of selection. They also have a full section of gag type gifts in the back, as well as art stuff and other gift ideas. Parking is also available in the back of the store (and the front, but the huge lot in the back is easier). No complaints with Wellesley Books. I really like coming here, and will continue to do so in the future. I hope other locals do the same, as I want to keep the local bookstores still around, especially with the industry going almost completely to online (which saddens me to this day!). 4 stars for Wellesley Books. read more

See all

The place is cliquey. There's really no denying it. I go there often, because they do have good selection, and they will do special orders. However, the people are not very friendly to people who are not their friends. I was worried the cashier wouldn't ring me up today and just keep talking to her (must have been) regular. She didn't say hello, she just cashed me out and vaguely asked me if I wanted a bag, while the other person kept nattering on about some sob story that she "didn't like to talk about." Sure. It's a good place, lots of different books, great used books section. Just don't expect to make friends if you're not 50+. And I'm a local, and a regular. Way to connect with the neighborhood, guys. read more

Wellesley Booksmith prides itself on being an independent book dealer that can provide the services that all the major sellers do. The store itself is rather small, but they do have an expansive selection of children books, bestsellers, and titles for young readers. I came here on a Thursday night for a reading and book-signing by one of my new favorite authors. There were chairs set up in the downstairs area of the shop with a table set up with light refreshments. The event itself wasn't highly publicized which I found odd, but the space itself was small, so I could understand. A small space made the event much more intimate and we were given the opportunity to ask questions about the book.. The event itself was fantastic. But the staff leaves much to be desired ... I came to the event early (with a copy of the book to get signed that I purchased from Barnes and Noble since the price was much cheaper than what Wellesley Books offered). I perused the racks and ended up purchasing some cards and tchotchkes. As I was leaving with my signed book, I showed my receipt to one of the staff working there to ease my conscience as I play-by-the rules and that I didn't swipe the book. I then had to deal with the snide comment and look about purchasing a book from one of the major booksellers. When I first showed up, I stood in line and was ignored before one of the staff asked, "do you have a question?" No, I just like to stand and stare. I can deal without the rude staff and the stuffy atmosphere. Overall, will I be back? Nope. Although I'd like to support the local independent shops, if they can't compete with the major sellers such as B&N and Amazon, why should I? Cheaper prices, larger selection, and much better service. Saving a dollar here and there over time adds up. read more

I called the store looking for a particular Moleskine planner that nearly every bookstore in the Metrowest area was sold out of. Wellesley Books happened to have ONE left which they held for me and even discounted because the exterior wrapping was a bit worn. I also picked up holiday cards as well while I was there, they have a wonderful selection. I will most definitely be back! read more

This hometown book store has made living in Wellesley a real pleasure, and has honestly been one of the most formative experiences I've had growing up. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and have THE BEST recommendations. If they don't have a book (they will), you can get it in a number of days and some recommendations of what you may like in the same genre. A number of staff readers write recommendations that make shopping very easy, and their small gifts are useful and luxurious instead of just tchotchkes. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. read more

I love this bookstore! In my opinion, they have done an amazing job managing customers, making sure everyone is masked and providing sanitizer upon entry. So grateful to have had access to this store when libraries were closed. Keep up the good work!! read more

Anywhere my little furry friends are welcomed is good with me. I like being able to take my small well behaved dogs into a store and they are welcomed. When I lived in Wellesley for a short time I could actually walk to this store from my home. I enjoyed going here and browsing the complete selections they had. I enjoy how this locally owned store treated its customers and showed them by their welcoming manner. Often I would purchase new book and when done I could trade in those for resale in the used book part for credit. I know people can do this online but there is something so satisfying as going into a store and actually holding the book in your hands. Flipping through the pages, reading snippets throughout to decide if it is interesting or not. Some if this is lost just clicking through pictures of books on a screen. I have been trying without luck to find another bookstore similar to this in Boston or surround and I have yet to find one that has the cozy feeling this little store has. It is e easy to spend a bundle here but it is fun to browse too. When I lived down the road I used this store as my go to hostess gift or birthday gift store because they have nice small gifts that are thoughtfully stocked and I could most times find something brilliant to take as a gift. read more

Great local bookstore. Privilege that Wellesley can still support this style of retail. Nice kid's section.

I love this little shop. They usually have the book I'm looking for, and if not, they are more than happy to order it for me. What's cool is the used book section in the basement: tons of gently used books at a great price. There are also a fair amount of gifts, greeting cards and paper products which makes it a one stop shop! Friendly staff, too. read more

Great local bookstore with employees that really know their stuff! They have specialists in all areas when it comes to recommending books. My kids love coming here. It's always welcoming and comfortable. They also sell lots of fun extras for kids and adults. DOGS ARE WELCOME INSIDE and they even provide treats and water!!! read more

I know it's all about amazon and yes, I give them a lot of $. But support the local guy too. Great when you actually want to IRL browse. Super nice people. Great place to pick up a gift. read more

It's a great local bookstore. For a serious shopper, they cannot compete with B&N but if your looking for bestseller or children s' book, you have plenty of options. There's a free parking lot behind the store. read more

The Wellesley Booksmith is really good if you want to get a child a cute little present or a fun book for them to read. (the whole back of the store is dedicated to children books) If your looking for a cute card or a planner or something small and charming this is a pretty good place to check out. However for books and service is a bit on the meh side. The book selection is small mainly due to the size of the store, but they do carry more popular books and best sellers. Once in a while they will do a sell on older books they want to get rid of, to make room for new books. You wont find any unusal jems, just stuff thats popular or from well known authors. What really brings the place down is the service. The service is either ok or just plain bad. Once I called looking for a book and the girl I was talking too, told me to hold on a minute so she could search for it. I waited for a while on the phone until another girl came on the phone asking if I needed any help. I said someone was helping me. So she left and then a few minutes later she came back on the phone asking me again if I needed anything and I said another girl was looking up a book for me, and then she left. A few minutes after that the girl came back on saying she was supposed to be helping me. Why didnt she say that from the start, I'll never know. Apparently the first girl didn't want to help me and asked the other girl to help me, which apparently nobody went over that with me. The other time I got a book there, that I had to call for they put it on hold for me and seemed to have their act together. They did what they were supposed to do. Amazing. This bookstore is very Wellesley. It has the atmosphere of people who all read because their educated and well off and they will all go down to the local Sarbucks to chat with their friend while sipping on their lattes. (sorry Starbucks) Everyone may be a little snippy and snooty and it might be cliquey but bring a friend while looking for that best seller and you will be fine. read more

My favorite bookstore. They stock only the best. The childrens' book section is the best anywhere!! The staff helped me pick out books for a read aloud in Boston. They also carry all the gardening and cookbooks you could desire and of course have all the latest books for many of the local bookgroups. Downstairs has the books you forgot to read. The events are great and much fun. They will also wrap a book for you and sell cards to go with. If you are a dog lover, you are bound to meet a friendly pup. I love shopping here. read more

Great independent bookstore on the main street in Wellesley. The selection of current books is quite good in adult fiction and non-fiction, and my children tell me that it's very good in children's and young adult literature. If you're looking for books that are not new or are not classic, you might have to go elsewhere, although there's a chance you can find older books and great gems in the used collection in the basement. The store really shine in the people who work there. Here's the reason for an independent like Wellesley Books, very friendly, very knowledgeable staff who love books. Just tell them what you're interested in and someone there will be able to make better recommendations for you than the Amazon prediction algorithm. The also carry a lot of cool gift stuff. read more

Funny things happen when you're expecting your first child. Like you become concerned with reading while its still int he womb. On the advice of other Yelpers - we did a prenatal visit to the Wellesley Booksmith. The staff there was incredibly friendly and was ready to make fantastic recommendations . The store has a large well stocked children's section and regularly offers activities targeted at parents. The atmosphere in the store was very relaxed and welcoming. Stop by when you get a chance. read more

Quintessential independent community bookstore. Large selection of best-sellers and special sections. Knowledgeable, friendly staff--they're very patient and you're welcome to sit and read a bit before you buy. read more

I was really excited to see a fairly large local bookstore at Wellesley. They feature lots of employee reviews that are HAND WRITTEN, which I just loved. Also a used book section downstairs that's fun to rummage through. read more

I love this bookstore. Its great. The people that work here are super helpful. They offer great advice on books and will order anything that do not have in stock. They wrap your gifts. They surprisingly have a great card selection. Sometimes better than Paper Source. They also have some great small gift ideas, interesting games and stationery. They have a wonderful childrens section in the back of the store and a used book area in the basement. I am always amazed at the great authors they bring into the store. They are the perfect local booksmith, a real part of the community. I gave it four stars because the book selection in comparison to Brookline Booksmith is a little weak. Check out both! read more

This is the best bookstore I've ever frequented: great variety and selection in a fairly small, but uncrowded store; it clean, bright, and well-organized. They have a good-sized children's section, again with great variety from picture books, old and new classics, popular series, poetry and science, and usually an excellent seasonal/holiday display of books. The whole staff is excellent (not just one expert in the store) and can help anyone find appropriate titles -- and not just popular/publisher's recommendations, they really know their stuff. Downstairs, there is a great selection of top-condition used books at a discount. They also have clever/contemporary non-book things like toys & games, cards, gifts, or Barack Obama action figures. Basically, it is always a pleasure to visit this store. read more

Love this bookstore! It is independently & locally owned. If they don't have it, they'll get it for you. I especially love the used bookcellar & the buy back days. They have a great kids section also. Very helpful, accomodating staff. read more

I love this bookstore. They care so much about the community - they provide free author visits to schools. Their customer service is outstanding. This is an all-around amazing bookstore that cares about their customers and the growth of young readers/aspiring writers. I highly recommend. read more

If you like ambience, charm, and a personalized concierge service when searching for the perfect literary gift or self-indulgence, there's no better place than Wellesley Booksmith. And as icing on the cake, the store's events for children and young adults are unsurpassed; they manage to lure the best of the best to the wider Boston community. Hospitality, intelligence, and the personal touch will make you actually enjoy instead of dread the shopping experience. read more

The store has a nice selection of books and gifts...what is lacking is service. Their sister store, Brookline Booksmith, is much more customer-friendly.A few years ago when Wellesley Booksmith opened, there seemed to be knowlegeable and helpful staff abound. But now it seems some of the staff seem irritated or frazzled if you ask a question or need a suggestion. They pretty much ignore you unless you seek them out. Not very friendly. So, those are my only complaint. I think with a new staff--this place would be awesome! read more

Most amazing bookstore I've ever been in! The employees are all wonderful, and I always feel at home when I walk in. Finding books and getting recommendations has never been easier! read more