Mostly Books

Discover Mostly Books: Philadelphia’s Premier Used Book Store

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, PA, Mostly Books is a multi‐floor, wizardly haven for bibliophiles, collectors, and casual readers alike. As a well-established used book store, Mostly Books offers an ever-evolving trove of gently used fiction, nonfiction, rare ephemera, vintage media, and more—each carefully curated to spark curiosity and fuel discovery. Whether you’re seeking a beloved classic, an obscure paperback, or a unique keepsake, this locally cherished destination invites you to wander, explore, and celebrate the simple joy of finding your next favorite page.

A Treasure Trove of Selections Across Multiple Floors

Step through the front door and prepare to be amazed by the sheer volume and variety of Mostly Books’ inventory. Spanning two full stories and several secret nooks, the store’s shelves are packed with everything from contemporary bestsellers to out-of-print treasures. Customers routinely praise the “vast collection of gently used nonfiction and fiction books spanning many genres, tastes and for all ages.” Whether you’re threading your way through towering shelves of science fiction or meandering past memoirs, history tomes, and poetry, there’s always another title waiting to be discovered around the next corner.

An Enchanting Maze-Like Atmosphere

More than just a place to buy books, Mostly Books feels like a whimsical labyrinth built for treasure hunts. One reviewer sums it up best: “It felt like magic! Every time I found myself in what I assumed was the last room… I’d find a doorway or a staircase that led me to another room!” From the moment you navigate your first spiral staircase or slip into a hidden alcove, the store’s playful layout stirs a sense of excitement and possibility. Browsing transforms into an adventure, with each twist and turn revealing fresh surprises.

Affordable Pricing Meets Exceptional Value

While some bookstores hide their gems behind lofty price tags, Mostly Books delivers high quality at wallet-friendly costs. “Good prices for used books, records, DVDs, CDs in good condition,” notes one enthusiastic visitor, adding that “the prices are cheaper than you would have anticipated.” Whether you’re stocking up on summer beach reads, hunting for gift ideas, or simply indulging your own literary habit, you’ll appreciate the approachable price points and frequent deals that make it easy to walk away with armfuls of captivating finds—without breaking the bank.

Organized Exploration with Plenty of Surprises

Mostly Books strikes a balance between the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of an organized system. While some patrons delight in the “literal books strewn all over the floor” that underscore the store’s lived-in charm, others praise its well-labeled, genre-specific shelving that makes targeted searches a breeze. This blend of curated order and happy chaos ensures that you can bookmark your favorite sections—be it modern poetry or regional history—while still leaving room for serendipitous stumbling upon an offbeat novel or rare collectible.

More Than Just Books: Ephemera, Photo Bins, and Rare Media

As if an expansive book collection weren’t enough, Mostly Books also houses an impressive assortment of ephemera and media treasures. Treasure-hunters eagerly dig through bins of vintage photographs, postcards, and pamphlets—“great photo bins,” one customer quips—seeking snapshots of bygone days. For collectors of analog formats, the store’s extensive VHS collection, vinyl records, DVDs, and CDs offers even more allure. Fans rave about picking up anime on VHS or obscure manga volumes: “I think you may have a harder time trying NOT to find something to take home.”

Personalized Touches and Inspirational Displays

What elevates Mostly Books above a typical used book store is its heart and soul—infused by a dedicated team who treat every visitor like a longtime friend. Proprietor Sharon, in particular, has “a great eye,” according to more than one reviewer, whose skill in selecting standout titles shines through each curated shelf. Beyond her book picks, Sharon and the staff have crafted delightfully personal touches—like an uplifting MLK display and a wall of customer-penned Post-it affirmations—that transform shopping into an inspiring, community-driven experience. These small details reinforce a welcoming spirit and a sense of shared discovery.

Why Mostly Books Deserves a Place on Your Radar

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a devoted reader, or simply someone who cherishes the thrill of the hunt, Mostly Books in Philadelphia delivers an inviting, value-packed adventure that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. From the magical maze of shelves to the friendly guidance of its staff, this used book store masterfully blends variety, affordability, and personal charm. Next time you’re in the City of Brotherly Love, make sure to carve out an hour—or an afternoon—to lose yourself in Mostly Books. You’re bound to emerge with a new literary obsession, a vintage keepsake, or perhaps the kind of surprise that only a truly special bookstore can provide.