
2nd & Charles
2nd & Charles in Harrisburg is a vibrant bookstore offering a vast selection of new and used books, comics, and collectibles. Customers enjoy the clean, well-organized atmosphere and appreciate the unique themed displays and imported snack section.
What people love about 2nd & Charles
Free Book Bin
This unique, no-cost leftover-book initiative delights customers and encourages frequent visits.
Text Message Service for Trade-Ins
Real-time trade-in notifications stand out as a convenient, customer-friendly touch.
Imported Food & Snack Section
Unexpected gourmet and imported snacks extend the store’s appeal beyond media, surprising and pleasing visitors.
Themed Curated Displays
Dedicated, rotating themed areas showcase fan-favorite genres and encourage exploration and impulse buys.
Key Themes from Reviews of 2nd & Charles
Product Variety & Selection
PositiveCustomers praise the wide range of new and used media and collectibles, making it a one-stop destination for diverse nerdy interests.
Buyback / Trade-In Value
NegativeMany customers feel the store offers poor buyback prices, prompting them to seek better resale options elsewhere.
Staff Friendliness & Knowledge
MixedWhile most shoppers highlight welcoming, knowledgeable staff, a few encounters with untrained or rude employees leave a negative impression.
Store Atmosphere & Cleanliness
PositiveThe store’s spacious, well-organized, and clean environment consistently receives customer praise.
Transaction Efficiency & Wait Times
NegativeCustomers experience frustratingly long wait times during special promotions and at checkout or trade-in counters.
Pricing & Value for Purchases
PositiveShoppers appreciate the discounted prices on books and media items, often finding excellent deals on purchases.
Store Policies & Communication
NegativeShoppers are frustrated by unclear or restrictive policies—from missing directory aids to credit redemption rules—that hurt their experience.
About 2nd & Charles
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Harrisburg, PA, 2nd & Charles is your ultimate one-stop destination for all things literary, musical, cinematic, and collectible. As a renowned Book Store, Used Book Store, and Rare Book Store, alongside its roles as a Comic Book Store, Magazine Store, Music Store, DVD Store, Collectibles Store, Gift Shop, and Toy Store, 2nd & Charles combines deep inventory with a passion for pop-culture treasures. Whether you’re a casual browser or a dedicated collector, you’ll find yourself immersed in an environment that celebrates the thrill of discovery at every turn.
A Treasure Trove of Media & Memorabilia
Step inside and prepare to be amazed by an unparalleled selection of new and used titles. Shelves overflow with bestselling novels, rare first editions, and gently loved paperbacks—all priced to delight bargain hunters. Comic aficionados will marvel at a massive comic book section, complete with vintage issues, manga, and graphic novels spanning every genre imaginable. Vinyl collectors and gamers will appreciate rows of retro games, soundtracks, and records. And if DVDs or Blu-rays are more your speed, you’ll discover blockbuster films alongside indie gems. From horror to romance, hip-hop to classical, 2nd & Charles caters to every taste, making it easy to lose track of time as you browse.
Exclusive Perks & Services
2nd & Charles elevates the typical shopping trip with unique amenities that keep customers coming back:
- Free Book Bin: Located just outside the entrance, this charming, no-cost clearinghouse offers an ever-changing selection of titles. It’s a community favorite—so whether you’re hunting for a mystery thriller or a sparkly romance, you never know what literary gem you might score.
- Text Message Trade-In Alerts: Say goodbye to missed notifications. When you bring in your pre-loved books, games, DVDs, or vinyl, the store’s real-time text service pings you the moment your items are processed. No more endless waiting by the counter—simply receive your offer and decide on the spot.
- Themed Curated Displays: From a spellbinding Harry Potter table to an “evil Disney” showcase, rotating themed displays breathe new life into fan favorites. Astrology buffs, tarot enthusiasts, and niche genre fans will appreciate the thoughtfully assembled sections that invite exploration and inspire impulse purchases.
- Imported Snacks & Gourmet Treats: Unexpectedly gourmet, the store’s snack aisle features a rotating collection of imported goodies—perfect for fueling an afternoon of literary treasure hunting or for picking up a quirky gift.
Ambience & Atmosphere
Clean, spacious, and immaculately organized, the 2nd & Charles storefront creates an inviting backdrop for your browsing pleasure. Wide aisles and clear signage guide you through the labyrinth of bookshelves and display cases, while dedicated staff members—most known for their friendliness and deep knowledge—are on hand to recommend your next great read or hard-to-find collectible. Soft lighting and comfortable seating areas encourage you to spend hours discovering new worlds or revisiting beloved classics.
Value & Community Impact
Shoppers consistently praise the store’s value-forward pricing, often walking away with multiple books or media items for under ten dollars. Regular promotions—like “Penny a Page” events—bring together book lovers for social shopping days, though these can draw lines during peak hours. For those looking to clear space on their shelves, 2nd & Charles offers competitive trade-in options, though some customers note that sell-back prices can vary by market demand. Still, the convenience of instant in-store credit and the alternative of real-cash payouts through the text service make it a preferred choice for many.
Plan Your Visit
Located at the bustling crossroads of Harrisburg, PA, 2nd & Charles is open seven days a week, welcoming bookworms, cinephiles, gamers, and collectors alike. Parking is convenient, and the store’s central location makes it easy to combine your visit with local cafes, restaurants, or a stroll along nearby Riverfront Park. Whether you’re seeking a rare collectible, a free gem from the book bin, or simply an afternoon of browsing exotic snacks and eclectic media, 2nd & Charles promises a rewarding experience every time you walk through its doors.
Ready to dive into a world of stories, sounds, and surprises? Head over to 2nd & Charles in Harrisburg, PA—and prepare to explore one of the region’s most dynamic and community-driven retail experiences.
Unique Details About 2nd & Charles
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Other
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Parking
- Free parking lot
Payments
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Planning
- Quick visit
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Service options
- Curbside pickup
- In-store pickup
- Onsite services
- In-store shopping
Alternative Local Businesses in Harrisburg, PA
Contact Information for 2nd & Charles
Harrisburg, PA 17111
United States of America
County: Dauphin County
Phone: +1 717-564-2953
Website: Visit Website
Customer Reviews
4.4 out of 5 stars
Based on 2468 reviews
Review data
5 star reviews
- 65%
4 star reviews
- 23%
3 star reviews
- 7%
2 star reviews
- 2%
1 star reviews
- 4%
Working Hours / Hours of Operation
- Monday:
- 10AM-8PM
- Tuesday:
- 10AM-8PM
- Wednesday:
- 10AM-8PM
- Thursday:
- 10AM-8PM
- Friday:
- 10AM-8PM
- Saturday:
- 10AM-8PM
- Sunday:
- 11AM-7PM

