Tanglewood Books Is Rad

If I was any more in love with Tanglewood Books, they wouldn't let me shop there. They'd be worried the lovin' would go too far.

Seriously. This store - a second-hard book shop on Broadway, just west of Granville -has the best overall vibe. It's warm and friendly and bright and organized (which so many used book shops aren't). And it's got lots of new releases too.

Actually, a focus on new releases is one of Tanglewood's only downsides. (The other is an overly chatty, bearded staffer. If you're not good at extracting yourself from conversations that won't end, it's best to keep your head down if he's working the till.) I must admit, if you're looking for something really rare or way out of print, you're better off going downtown to Macleods, but for newer stuff, and a more pleasant experience overall, Tanglewood is where it's at. They're also into buying books, so if you have any hanging around, take them in and you may make some decent coin.

The store's been chosen as one of the best of its kind in pieces published by both and The Georgia Straight. There used to be two locations, but I was chatting with a cashier this weekend who told me the owner recently decided to consolidate. The other location has closed and all their stock has been shipped over, so the remaining location is packed right now. The same cashier told me they're also planning to open up some of the back storage-space to customers. Yay! More books!

There's a big Chapters practically right across the street, but it's worth running over to see if Tanglewood has what you're looking for first. You'll definitely save some money if they do. And if they don't... oh well. You might see something else you like. And if not, the store is utterly charming. It's a win win.

Tanglewood Books
1553 W. Broadway
(604) 736-8876