Second Story Books

I purchased What Every American Should Know About the Middle East by Melissa Rossi from the Dupont Circle location of Second Story Books, and both the book and the overall experience were wonderful. The book was in great condition and incredibly insightful. The staff were very kind and knowledgeable. One of the employees in particular was especially helpful in locating the book — I truly appreciated her kindness and warm smile. Places with such a welcoming and intellectual atmosphere definitely make you want to come back.

Meh experience. Books never fail to excite me, especially stand-alone bookstores with their unique personalities and life is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you're going to get, variety of books. First thing off here was the energy. I walked in late evening like an hour before they close and the fluorescent lights felt jarring. Next was the paranoid sales rep. She immediately instructed me to put my bags in the bag check section they had going on, which was a literal weight off my back, and left me eager to enjoy my book adventure freely. However, the way she communicated was unnecessary and unwelcoming, almost suspicious. I looked around for a couple of minutes and just gazed around the front. There were limited editions of quite expensive texts. I'm sure this would be exciting for some but it wasn't what I was looking for. I retrieved my bags from bag check and had ordered an Uber. I asked them for their exact address and although I did appreciate the two male employees that were helpful and normal, the female continued to give attitude, it was strange. Won't be going back.

Well organized and the staff was helpful. Decent Spanish selection. Very interesting collectable copies

We never miss a stop at Second Story Books! Well organized with plenty of used books to peruse. We were pleased by the selection we found, especially given the good condition of the books we bought. Booklovers, don't miss out!

Excellent used book store. They also will take books for store credit.

I like this store overall and make a point of visiting at least once during my annual trips to the District. For a relatively small space, they pack in a good inventory in history, philosophy, nonfiction, poetry and art. Fiction has been surprisingly less strong, but then again, I'm in the area only one week a year (in terms of stock turnover). In any case, I have been pleasantly surprised by multiple finds here over the years. Prices are higher for basic paperbacks but this is also one of the most high-rent areas of the city. My interactions with the staff have been generally courteous, if not minimal and slightly distant (on their part). I don't often ask questions because I've worked in the book business for years and know what I'm looking for. In the past, I'd overheard staff occasionally mutter under their breath about customers, but I hope that behavior has been curbed. You will be well served to stop in. Take note of their stringent bag policy and be prepared to check it at the front counter. They are not responsible for loss, etc., so try to skip bringing a bag altogether.

Used bookstores are the best bookstores. One of my favorite spots in DC, I can spend hours in here. They have lots of cool vintage maps/posters and art prints too!