
Excellent SciFi/Fantasy Section
Regular visitors are particularly impressed by the depth and surprise finds in this genre corner.
Book Selection & VarietyPositive
Customers consistently praise the wide and diverse range of genres, from out-of-print treasures to new local-author titles.
Discover Secondhand Rows: Mt Carmel’s Book Lover’s Haven
Secondhand Rows is more than just a book store in Mt Carmel, PA—it’s a literary playground where every shelf holds the promise of a new adventure. From the moment you step inside, you’ll sense the thrill of discovery: from dog-eared paperbacks to pristine first editions, the collection spans decades, genres, and philosophies. Whether you’re a sci-fi aficionado, a local-author enthusiast, or a treasure hunter seeking out-of-print gems, Secondhand Rows provides an inviting, community-centered environment that keeps readers returning time and again.
A Universe of Books: Unparalleled Selection & Variety
At the heart of Secondhand Rows lies an astonishingly broad catalog. Customers consistently praise the store’s deep, diverse inventory—“I found a few out-of-print books during my visit, and prices were reasonable,” one visitor noted—while others rave that it’s “the best selection of paperbacks and hardcover books in Pennsylvania!” Whether you’re researching a term paper or seeking an obscure fantasy novel, you’ll find your niche amidst the countless genres on display. From classic literature and cozy mysteries to biographies and cutting-edge social commentary, this store’s curation strikes the perfect balance between timeless works and modern local-author titles.
Atmosphere & Layout: A Cozy Treasure Hunt
Secondhand Rows captures the magic of serendipity with its unique, maze-like layout. Floor-to-ceiling shelves line the walls, interspersed with snug reading nooks that beckon you to curl up with a volume until closing time. “This is the type of used book store I like—it is packed with books from ceiling to floor,” one fan shared. The warm lighting and vintage décor conjure a living room ambiance, encouraging leisurely browsing. You never know what you’ll unearth: a signed copy by a best-selling author, a quirky children’s book, or that elusive volume you’ve been chasing for years.
Staff Friendliness & Personalized Service
More than a retail experience, Secondhand Rows is a friendly gathering place. The owners and staff are renowned for their hands-on customer care—ready with recommendations, reading suggestions, or even a chat about your favorite characters. One shopper recalls how the team located two editions of a rare book, then sent photos via Facebook Messenger so she could choose her preferred cover before visiting. Their genuine enthusiasm for literature fosters a sense of trust and camaraderie, transforming casual visitors into lifelong patrons.
Trade-In Program & Value-Driven Pricing
Secondhand Rows’ trade-in program stands out as a customer-focused service that promotes sustainability and savvy shopping. Bring in your gently used books and earn fair store credit toward future purchases—an economical way to refresh your personal library. Patrons appreciate the balance of quality and affordability: “Every time I frequent this excellent establishment, I find gems and even authors I didn’t know about,” one loyal reader noted. Whether you’re trading old favorites or hunting for rare finds, you’ll enjoy consistently reasonable prices and the thrill of getting more value for every dollar spent.
Unique Finds & Highlights
Beyond its extensive stacks, Secondhand Rows surprises guests with an array of delightful extras:
• Excellent Sci-Fi/Fantasy Section: Regulars celebrate the depth of speculative fiction, where surprise discoveries await around every shelf.
• Dragon Pins & Trinkets: Tucked between novels are whimsical accessories—dragon-shaped enamel pins, quirky bookmarks, and one-of-a-kind tchotchkas—that make perfect gifts.
• FB Messenger Photo Service: Busy book lovers can request photos of sought-after editions before making the trip, guaranteeing the right cover and condition.
• Bakery Neighbor: Located right beside a cozy bakery, readers can pair their literary haul with freshly baked treats, creating an unbeatable afternoon outing.
Convenient Location & Hours
Nestled on Mt Carmel’s charming main street, Secondhand Rows is easily accessible and surrounded by local shops and eateries. While its core hours cater to weekday and Saturday traffic, some customers have expressed a desire for extended opening times—especially on Sundays, now closed for upkeep and rest. The staff encourages checking their social media or calling ahead to confirm current hours, ensuring your visit is both seamless and satisfying.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a die-hard bibliophile or a casual browser, Secondhand Rows offers an experience that goes beyond mere transactions. With its expansive book selection, inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and inventive extras (dragon pins included!), this Mt Carmel treasure trove is poised to become your favorite literary escape. Drop in, trade-in, and discover why so many readers consider Secondhand Rows a must-visit destination in Pennsylvania’s Anthracite region. Your next great read—or the perfect gift—awaits!
Other
- Identifies as women-owned
- Identifies as veteran-owned
Payments
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Planning
- Quick visit
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Service options
- In-store pickup
- Onsite services
From the business
- Small business
- Identifies as women-owned
- Identifies as veteran-owned
4.7 out of 5 stars
Based on 21 reviews
Review data
5 star reviews
- 90%
4 star reviews
- 0%
3 star reviews
- 5%
2 star reviews
- 0%
1 star reviews
- 5%
- Monday:
- Closed
- Tuesday:
- 10AM-5PM
- Wednesday:
- 10AM-5PM
- Thursday:
- 10AM-5PM
- Friday:
- 10AM-5PM
- Saturday:
- 2-5PM
- Sunday:
- Closed