Atomic Books

I enjoyed my visit to Atomic Books. I found a lot of books that I had never heard of and there's a lot of locally themed items there too. Staff is friendly and the store has a real chill vibe to it. Street parking was easy. I've been seeking out locally owned small businesses, I'm glad I found this one. I'll definitely be back.

I highly recommend this Cool book store. They have a variety of books, from fiction to nonfiction as well as occult and some science fiction. I would come back again for Tolkein's series. They also sell lots of goods and some cute miniature or figurines from Japan.

really cool bookstore that highlights comics, graphic novels, magazines, and manga. there are some novels and nonfiction, but the star of the show are the illustrated books. also some cool stickers and trinkets there to pick up at the register

This place is a true neighborhood gem! It's worth a stop if you like comics, graphic novels, sci-fi, or quirky books about science. They have something for everyone! It's so well organized and has a lot of unique titles. The books are all new and the prices are reasonable. The staff and patrons are both friendly. Would highly recommend!

really cool book/record shop in John Waters section of Baltimore

horrible customer service.i called the store for an order that hasnt been shipped in 12 days , after they didnt answer my email for four days.They told me they will eventually get back to me , told them my order number , didnt even look it up.I said i may be moving so i need my books , i dont have time , they said neither do we and hung up on me? The person on the phone was so short with me for no reason.I am so suprised this is how people treat customers.

I have been to almost every comic shop in maryland and by far this shop is the most organized and caring. EVERY comic book being in a sleeve without Nickle and diming you makes the world to collectors like me And the staff always has a smile on there face and even some jokes under their belt. Keep supporting amazing stores like this so book worms always have a place to go!

This is the best book store in Baltimore! I have been a customer and a regular of eightbar for years and I have always had a wonderful experience. The owners and the employees are super passionate and knowledgeable about all things books, comics, pop and sub culture. You will always find what you are looking for and if you don't they will order it for you.

This is a great bookstore packed floor to ceiling with fiction, non-fiction, how-tos, cookbooks, manga, comics, illustrated books and more! All the books were reasonably priced, and service was quick and efficient when checking out. We had time to kill before a dinner reservation nearby so we walked in to see if we could find a book to bring with us to the beach. After searching through the shelves and seeing all that Atomic Books has to offer, my husband and I both found something that piqued our interest. I love shopping small and supporting local, and Atomic Books has classic Baltimore charm mixed with the unique punk vibes of Hamden. The next time I'm around grabbing a bite, I think I'll stop in and buy another book to enjoy.

If you're looking for a great selection of books and comics, in addition to an on-site bar, Atomic Books may be your destination. Located in the Hampden section of Bmore, Atomic Books would easily satisfy the inner book nerd in you (*raises hand...). Upon entering, the ambiance was chill with music playing over the speaker with just enough volume to not get in the way of perusing the incredible book collection. The books are sectioned according to genre, which makes for ease in looking for a specific topic. They have a magazine section as well with titles you won't find in an ordinary newsstand (a magazine titled "Bomb"?.... I'm impressed). The cost of the books varied, but was not so to bust your budget. They also have a selection of comic books in addition to t-shirts and items with the Atomic Books logo. The staff were pleasant and customers who came in seemed to be locals supporting a great small business. I liked that. And don't forget I mentioned a bar....located in the rear....serving adult libations. Can you imagine yourself purchasing a favorite book and settling in at one of the seats in the bar sipping on your favorite drink? Or playing the video game back there? I could and would have...if I had the time! All in all, a cool neighborhood bookstore/bar to chill out, grab a book, and a drink.

Went in to Atomic Books just to peruse and left with a book I didn't even know existed. Atomic Books had an incredible selection of books running the gamut of genres. I did a pass through the entire shop then spent most of my time in the music section. I was pleased that the offered so many books featuring punk bands and music. I bought a book about Crass and the Thatcher years in England. Price seemed reasonable for a harder to find book. My wife and I also grabbed some stickers. The person working the register was nice enough. Didn't really go out of their way to greet us or help us out. I am totally fine with that as I could work my way through at my own leisure.

Brilliant in nearly all aspects... Bonus points for a knowledgeable (and fun) staff. The requirement to hit 85 characters seems silly in most cases...

I love atomic books. I think it's great to be able to support a local small business for buying books instead of a giga cooperation. This cute cozy nerdy store is absolutely jam packed with reads. They have an ever changing curated section that their book clubs are reading, their staff recommends, and what's trending. Making picking a books easy if you can't decide. I've only ever had positive interactions with all the staff, and they have a great loyalty program! The books are competitively priced to online retailers. I don't know what more you could ask for for a local book store. But wait there's more! There's a cute little dive bar in the back where you can cozy up with your book, read, drink, and socialize. It's WONDERFUL.

Such a cool spot! Wow, so many great finds inside. Novelty gifts, books and comics that you can't help but impulse buy. I can tell it's a local favorite, too! If you're in the area, surely go!

What's not to love about a comic book store that has a bar in the back. It's a divy hipster bar in Hampden. The crowd is a little order and it's cheap drinks and beers with usually a live show. The staff is friendly. I've heard John Waters (creator of Hair Spray) does signings here on occasion! It's a fun spot. They do have regular fiction books as well!

BEWARE WHEN ORDERING ONLINE **SCAM ALERT**** I ordered 2 books from here that were never sent. After a huge go around and trying for 3 days to reach someone I managed to get my order canceled. Now today my card was charged for the same amount... not sure what games they're playing or if they thought I wouldn't notice but this is blatant fraud. Don't waste your money or time, find another place to buy from. Trust me it'll save you loads of stress and money.

Awesome shop with a great selection of novels, art books and comics. They also have cool novelty items like a capybara finger puppets!

This was my first visit here. I've been in Baltimore all these years and I finally stopped in. They have a mask policy so I ran back to my car to grab one, just a note to anyone planning to go. I was impressed by their diverse selection of books and comics. I was able to get what I wanted and then some. I was going to rate this review a 5 star but I honestly felt like I was watched the whole time I was in the store. I would move from one side of the store to the next and still notice it. I just ignored it and kept shopping. My wife also noticed it without me mentioning it.

I really wanted to support a local bookstore and not go to a major chain or Amazon. Unfortunately, this store won't be the one getting my business. Not only are customers not allowed to drink a covered coffee and are forced to leave it at the front register, but they also don't have a bathroom for customers to use. Those blanket policies with no room for individual discretion are par for city life in the US, which is a shame. So I have to run out of your store and not buy anything to SUPPORT YOU because duty calls? Your loss, really. The other sincere issue with my experience was the attitude of the woman who relayed these policies to me. Utterly unfriendly and her tone suggested I was a complete moron for even daring to bring a coffee into the store or asking about a bathroom. "There's a sign on the front that says there's no bathroom." Oh, okay. But maybe USE YOUR DISCRETION to allow customers who are clearly not going to ruin your bathroom? Or maybe employees actually do defecate in a bucket all day and this store legitimately has no bathroom? I doubt it, but that's possible. Could have been why she was so damn mean and salty, perhaps? Or maybe it was because I was the only customer in the store, the store is going under, and she's pissed that she'll be jobless soon? News flash - if you provide good customer service rather than JUST products, people will come back. I can get your books ANYWHERE. That's not why I come to YOU. What you provide that's special is yourself, not your products. Some business owners don't understand that, and then they wonder why no one comes back. It's truly not about your product, especially when they're generic products like mass produced books. It's about the person and ethos behind the product. Wish you understood that. Either way, great job driving a customer away. I won't come back, nor will I encourage others in my wide network to go, as I normally would for a business that treats their customers well. There's more than one reason Amazon is taking over the world, and shop employees/owners like this are definitely one of them.

Came in to inquire about renting the back room and could hardly get answers to simple questions from Rachael, who was dismissive, snotty and bereft of customer service skills. Kudos to the young lady at the counter who tried to rescue the negative interaction but ultimately that flier went in the trash. I'll spend my money elsewhere.

Atomic Books is a great little bookstore on Falls Road in Hampden. It's definitely on the smaller side, but it's well laid out and has a great selection of books, comic books, and graphic novels. While they can't have every book you might want to buy (not enough space), they will order books for you! They also have a little hidden bar (Eightbar) in the shop where they sell local and craft beer, wine, ciders, meads, and more, which I need to check out next time I stop by! Atomic Books is also special as it collects fan mail for John Waters, which he picks up from the shop regularly. Atomic Books is a special Hampden spot. Check it out and buy local!

The store has expanded their hours, as follows: 12-6 p.m. on Tuesdays & Thursdays, 12-7 p.m. on Fridays & Saturdays, 12-9 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 12-5 p.m. on Sundays (closed on Mondays). Also; their bar (Eightbar) will be open from 5-9 p.m. on Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. on Fridays, and 4-7 p.m. on Saturdays. A vaccination card must be shown in Eightbar. Atomic Books has raised a good point about ordering way ahead for the holiday season, since they're already contending with a significant problem re: supply-chain strain (manufacturing, distribution, shipping and labor). Many of their items are selling out quickly and it's highly doubtful they'd be able to restock this year, if ever. Also, they might have to cut off all mail order in December because of what happened last year (it took weeks for their Priority Mail packages to arrive at the destinations). Another point they've raised is that UPS & the USPS are adding surcharges to shipping as of next month and the USPS has slowed First Class mail for as much as five days.

LOVE IT‼GREAT PRICES I GOT A FEW BOOKS FOR UNDER $1 I love them they're addictive I hope they continue to make part 2 in some of theses book love the pictures.love the vibe great service was a quick in easy check out

Came here and spent $20 but didn't have much time, came back the next day and looked around for about an hour, bought a $5 drink, and was planning to come back at the end of my day in Hampden since I didn't want to carry the books around while shopping. However, one of the employees loudly publicly shamed me for "reading all their books" and asked me if I was planning to buy anything on my way out, while I was holding the $5 drink I bought. I read exactly 10 pages of one graphic novel. It wasn't just me being sensitive - another patron left when I did and said the employee was really rude to me, so they felt like they had to leave too. What do they gain from publicly embarrassing someone who has bought multiple things from their business for flipping through *10 pages* of a book? I don't see myself coming back now.

Atomic Books was a definite Baltimore must! I don't need to remind you that John Waters gets his mail here. A perfect stalking.... I meant local hub for all things literature! It was my first time here and I immediately feel for it. It might have helped that we were in the car for hours and I made a b-line for the bar in the back. Yes, you heard me loud and clear. There's beer here. I was quiet happy to see a little couch with Waters and Divine head pillows. And I couldn't resist playing a couple rounds of Ms. PAC-MAN. When my friend showed me how to start it. I was only one point away from the win. The bartender last Saturday was a super sweetie and helped me select the right sour "Sorry Chick" to quench my thirst. It was delicious! She also complemented me on my outfit. It's like she wanted me to move in with all the love I felt. I spotted a cheap book rack and immediately went for the pickle book. I was tempted. There was a family in the back who was also trying to convince me about the book. I should be in a "Cookbooks Anonymous". I admit I have a problem and that's the first step. The array of books had so many of my favorites. I focused a lot on the illustrated comics. Liana Finck's new book "Passing for Human" was in the mix. She's one of my favorite cartoonist for the New Yorker! I also enjoyed the John Waters x-mas card wall. Buscemi one will always be my favorite. There was also signed books of all his novels. A real must see for all fans! You can also pick up your "Baltimore: I actually like it" t shirt for 25 bones, Tip: We didn't know but word on the street is the record store (True Vine Record Shop) next door is amazing and Waters loves this area so spend some time walking around.

One of my favorite bookstores in all of America. Thanks to John Waters I first learned about this amazing bookstore. Today I received another package from Atomic Books and once again, top notch service! Not only were my items neatly and securely packed, everything looked pristine as though I went into the store myself. I might be on the West Coast, but I can truthfully say Atomic Books is an amazing store and you should absolutely support it. They always do a wonderful job shipping items out and all around great service!

I enjoy shipping there, even though I had to wear a mask on 8/14/22 They say you can judge the quality of a bookstore by the quality of their restroom. This store has no public restroom That tells you a lot :-(

Atomic Books is a beloved bookstore in Hampden in Baltimore. It carries a variety of new comic books, magazines, other books, zines, and gifts. If you're into unique books, go here. They have an amazing selection! The staff are helpful and they often host events throughout the week for the community. If you go in the evening, there's a fun bar in the back with a few games and couches to sit on.

Honestly, it had something for everyone. My one wish was that things were more clearly labeled so you could tell which section you were in. Definitely look in the sale books. They're either overstock, damaged, ect. I got a book for $3.98 today, all because of a small rip in the cover. Saw a few books they had on the floor for $10-15 cheaper. Always look there!! The pin machine is honestly super cute. For a $1, you get a mystery pin!

Atomic is my go to for comics! I love the wide selection they have from superheroes to weird, indie graphic novels and of course, good ol' books.

**Review for Eightbar** I love that this bar is in the back of a book store! I love that there are comics all over the bar top! And I love that they have a set of Cards Against Humanity for spontaneous drunken mind play! The drink selection is nice with a mix of local favorites, seasonal treats, and unique things like spiked sparkling water. Now I was on a bar crawl when I came here, but it was only the second stop so I was coherent enough to judge and remember. It's a great atmosphere. Makes me wish I was into comic and graphic novels. Bring friends, hang out, read stuff, drink stuff, you won't be disappointed I promise.

I wandered into Atomic Books for Free Comic Book Day and I was very impressed. They have a super unique and specialized collections - lots of local zines and books from independent publishers - stuff that you wouldn't find at a Barnes and Noble. They even have some free things (like local magazines and zines) that you can take! It's always fun to go to Atomic Books and see what they have stock.

I went in hoping for a John Waters sighting (circa 2016) and left with three new books, including one about "fucking apostrophes." Absolute treasure of a place and informative, friendly staff.

One of the coolest book and comic book shops I've been to, especially here in the city! The interior is pretty big and honestly it seems like they carry almost every major title or comic as well as smaller titles as well. The wall and shelves of different graphic novels and mangas are enough to have one browsing for hours and hours. I also like the way different books are spread throughout the store depending on the topics that are relevant at the time. They also even have a table dedicated to local authors and creators, some of the books are even signed! Don't forget to check out the back area where there are plenty of seats, few arcade games, and a BAR! That's right, during certain times you can not only grab books but you can also grab some great local beer and just relax for a bit. This place is a local gem.

An institution in the Hampden neighborhood. This is a comic store that is choosey about its comics, a bookstore that's selective of its books, and an independent zine store that sells a myriad of artists and unusual stuff. And it has an enormous selection of graphic novels. The book shelves for instance contain art books, pretty much everything Vonnegut has written, and all three Wildwood books by Colin Meloy. I love the selection of books laid out on the tables in the middle of the store. They are eye catching and appear carefully curated. They attract you to really cool books you might not pick off a shelf or find online. I almost always want several. The rumor is this is where John Waters gets his fan mail and it makes sense. This store is just smart, a tiny bit weird, and as others say here...geek heaven. Oh there is a bar in the back too.

I took my daughters on a walk today to go to Atomic books as we'd been wanting to check out the store and buy some new books for our little family. We waited outside the store as their were others already inside shopping. When it was our turn to go in, I was told that children under 10 weren't allowed inside the store. Yum it's a book store! I have been waiting for the last 2 weeks to go here with my girls and had every intention of making a large purchase today but I suppose I'll looked elsewhere for the books i I wanted to buy. Very disappointed with my first experience here and I'm not sure I'll go back.

This is actually a review of Eightbar, more so than a review of the shop. Yes, Atomic Books is a comic book store. Yes, they have a cozy little lounge. No, not a bookstore with coffee, but a comic book store with a bar. Yes, a bar - with wine, cider, and great choices for beer. Adrienne - I'm not sure that's how you spell it - is fantastic. I went on April's first Friday - the first Friday in the month - and she held down the rush like none other. On this particular Friday, they had a Coney Island Brewery takeover. I started with the hard rootbeer - for no good reason. It was exactly what I expected - sweet, just like rootbeer. Adrienne served it over ice, which helped. Whew! what was I thinking? Clearly, I wasn't because my next drink (which was after 7 when the even started) earned me this fancy mug. And in true fashion, I wanted to try everything so I tried the Hard Orange Creme Ale. Thank goodness my friends joined me and helped me finish it. That was it for me and beer. This place has some decent wine choices - given the size. I started with a rosé from California, which was fine, but this Pinot was much better - even though it came in a can - almost three glasses worth. Perfect for sharing. Check this place out next time you are looking for a cute and relaxing spot. Just a note, you have to buy the books and then you can bring them in the lounge; they also don't let you bring the drinks into the store. Probably a good plan, given how clumsy I am.

Atomic is a solid book store, with a bar in the back to boot. Good layout, open space. Always on point with the selection, ranging from local zines, comics, artbooks, NYT Bestsellers, to fun cash wrap novelties. A perfect blend of book store and comic store. I went when it was up the road and I continue going on Falls. I appreciate you, Atomic.

I stopped by to check out one of my local bookstores. I'm an avid reader, but a healthcare worker and can't bring physical books into my workplace, but I work long overnight 24h call shifts and do all of my reading on my phone through my library app. Yes, I get it--on the face, it seems like I'm a bad book-buying customer since I can't actually use them, BUT after reading them, I always purchase my favorites in hardcover from small local bookstores such as Atomic and keep them in my home. I take pictures of the old ones I've read and the new ones I'm going to read whenever I have a chance to go. And I'm a sucker for the little cards and pins sold by bookstores, so I usually walk out having bought a bunch of merch anyway, which are much more expensive than books overall. Booksellers in other corners of the DMV area are usually pretty kind and appreciate the business, even though the things I buy aren't always books. Today was one of my usual visits, and I was taking some pictures with my husband at the beginning before browsing the merch. The employee came over and seemed to intentionally make us feel uncomfortable about it, then again after checking out, said some things that seemed to also imply we weren't welcome, suggesting that I was taking pictures to be an 'influencer' without buying anything. He questioned me, asking more and more about it, and definitely not in a nice or curious way--he genuinely seemed to want me to feel bad. But at the same time, he was ringing up the $20 worth of stuff we were buying (mostly quirky greeting cards, things on which I suspect they have a high margin). I get it, that's not a ton, but it's more than the $10 paperback that I took a photo of. We were there for ~30 minutes and not in anyone's way, as far as I could see, and paid before closing, so I felt hurt by his passive aggressive tone. I get that not every customer is the same, and probably a lot of business is lost towards people buying books online. But that wasn't my intention, and being nice to people is better for business than his judgmental tone. This place probably would have been cool if I didn't feel him hovering over my every move after that. I was curious about the bar in the back, and definitely would have stayed longer and certainly would have bought more without this experience. If he said something like 'no photos allowed, sorry,' I absolutely would have apologized profusely and stopped, but I don't think that was the case, to my knowledge. He reinforced my decision to temper my purchasing (and not buy the book I was considering adding to my collection) with the second set of comments in the checkout lane. At that point, I almost said 'forget it' and put my stuff back, but I was too shy and hurt so I still bought it. At first glance, it reminded me of my favorite comic/graphic novel store that closed years ago, and I desperately missed. I'm disappointed I didn't find that in Atomic.

I am new to Baltimore and stopped by this store while exploring the city a bit. They had an amazing selection of books available to browse curbside, and I picked up three used cookbooks that were like new for $12! I didn't know until I got home that they were allowing customers to shop by appointment, but I absolutely cannot wait until I get the opportunity to take a look around inside the store!

Rachel was awesome and I highly recommend this independent bookstore. I ordered a John Water's autographed BLU RAY of "Female Trouble" but recieved in error "Polyester". Rachel sent out the correct BLU RAY in a super fast hurry. And today I was told I could keep the autographed copy of "Polyester". Now that's customer service and when I'm in the neighborhood I will definently be shopping there. Keep up the great work. A loyal customer now for sure!

What a quirky fun space. It's everything you would expect from a hampden bookstore with a twist. The back doubles as a comic book bar. (At least it appeared to be comics to me) but bright colorful complete with video game and beer. I immediately thought of my best friend and how she would adore this little space. Well done Hampden Village Merchants!

Cool comic book store. Great vibe and knowledgeable staff. Lots of stock and everything is marked and labled in such a way its easy to find tour way around. You can find some cool kitchy stuff for fun! Check out the bar in the back....reminds me of the old speakeasy's ....a bar somewhere totally unexpected.

Atomic Books is the famous eclectic bookstore in Hampden, and it is a treasure trove of weird books and magazines. They have an unparalleled selection of graphic novels, and the odd assortment of pop culture knickknacks making this the perfect place to do some shopping for gifts for that special oddball in your life. Be sure to ask about their Big Spender card for returning customers. They have a bar in the back, which is a really neat idea but I have never once been there when the bar itself was open. Wish it was open whenever the store was.

Shop full of toys. Didn't stop you from being nasty to my children who don't have a disrespectful bone in their bodies. Can't wait to shop your Everything Must Go, Closing sale.

Not sure what reverse world the lone negative Yelp reviewer entered in his visit to Atomic Books, but as a browser and shopper of this establishment for years, I've never had or seen this kind of experience. YEARS. I have always been treated with courtesy, helpfulness, and even when I'm broke and just browsing, polite conversation. This is without a doubt the best independent bookstore in Baltimore.

On our last trip to Baltimore, my boyfriend and I checked out Hampden. I wanted to check out this book store specifically. Being a fan of the great John Waters, it was a must-see destination for me during our jaunt to this neighborhood. It's where he collects his fan mail. After visiting, I can also say that Atomic Books is a great spot. It's not just limited to only books; there are comics, music, toys, art, and other random awesomeness. I'd definitely recommend it if you are in Baltimore.

I love this bookstore-you'll find many things that you won't find in the chains, including SIGNED John Waters merchandise. I wish that they had a bit more selection, but given the small size of the store, the selection is great. The store has friendly staff and there's a bar in the back that looks like it would be a fun hangout. My only complaint is that there is no customer restroom. How can you have a bar and no restroom? If they had one, I'd go to the bar, but I'm not going to have a couple of drinks and then have to walk a block or so over to find a restroom.

I love bookstores. Wanted to check this one out for awhile now. But while there's a large, good selection, I didnt feel as welcomed as some other bookstores I've been to...almost like you walk in and you've interrupted someone's busy day. There was no offer for help, or if there were any questions etc after browsing for about 30 minutes which could be good and bad depending on why you're there and well...as much as I'd like to love it, I didn't. But to be fair, I didn't hate it either. Just would stick to larger chains (which is NOT something you'll usually hear me saying!) Or online books. Good aspect is that there are books here that you would not find at many of the bigger chains and a decent sized wall of zines. P.S. the sign asking you not to take a photo of stuff unless permission is obtained is well....in this day and age...kinda old, especially when I may want to spread the word about cool stuff they sell there but of course I respect a privately owned business' request.

I was in Hampden near Atomic Books tutoring some kid intent on spending her 18th birthday in middle school; She was complaining/explaining that the only reason she couldn't read aloud was because she couldn't identify with the material I'd given her. so we ran over to Atomic Books, by-passed the porno and the surprisingly extensive comic book section and headed straight for literature. She didn't want any stupid artsy fiction book or anything publiched by mcsweeny's. She didn't want any counter culture magazine either. She wanted something she could "relate to." We left with a true crime book about child killers.

I'm a quest to find Baltimore themed post cards - but not ones that look like any other touristy kchatchkey you can get in [insert state here]. I wanted something unique to the city that I could send a few friends overseas. A friend recommended Atomic Books to me because of their selection of everything quirky and not-normal, so I swung by yesterday. Blown away. This is such a fun space filled with books, knick-knacks, zines, magazines, post cards and comics - everything your alternative Baltimore self would ever need. It's one of those places you walk into not needing anything, then 30 minutes later you have bags of stuff you just can't live without. Not only did I find the post cards I was looking for (John Waters themed!), but I left with some local zines and the latest edition of Bitch Magazine. Added bonus! (I love added bonuses!) Atomic Books shares a space with Celebrated Summer Records - so take the extra 15 minutes and browse the very back of the store. There are great hardcore, punk and indie records if that's your thing. 5 stars! 5 stars! 5 stars! I'm a very happy girl!

All the five stars go to one thing and one thing alone: That framed Christmas card John Waters sent out with a picture of Steve Buscemi made-up and dressed as John Waters. One less star because they won't let me have it.

My friends and I were in Hampden for wonderful brunch at Golden West. One of my friends wanted to check out what I thought to be a comic book store (Atomic), only to find out that there's so much much more there! Tons of neat books on crafts and DIY, and the zine selection, both DIY and commercially pressed is awesome. From obscure Brooklyn literary journals, to all kinds of magazines on design that you'd be hard pressed to find at a B&N or normal bookstore. There's also a record shop in the back, which was not quite my taste, but if you're into punk 45's, this place has tons more than DC's Red Onion and Crooked Beat. There is however, no soul or funk in their collection, which is fine as I was not expecting it anyway. There are gifts and knick knacks too, though mostly what you'll find are books (all new). The staff were super super super super super friendly and definitely serve as testament to how amazing Baltimore can be.

:This is a great little bookstore in Hampden. It is a cross between a comic book store and an eclectic bookstore - lots of little various toys and comics, anthologies and really interesting books. The space is very deceiving, so beware. You will think you have walked into a sparse ship that you can cover in matter of minutes, and hours later you are still perusing book somewhere in the shop. I also like their selection of magazine, some I haven't every seen before. This store is right in its element in Hampden and is a must-visit.

I love this place it's really the only store you can find Burroughs, Kerouac and comic books under the same roof, not to mention super cool toys and Collectibles.

A great locally owned store offering urban vinyl collectibles, plush and other designer toys. A large bookstore is located in the back of the shop, with alternative magazines in the front racks. The staff seemed disinterested in its customers, however, this is typical for these types of shops (Giant Robot, Kid Robot, Super 7, etc). Does it make it right, no, but this is a shop to wander and explore, not to be hounded by clerks.

This place is wonderful. I could spend hours in here just browsing through all of their books and comics, their zines and cards and fun knickknack and the small but juicy music and dvd selection. They also have the best magazine selection in the whole area. They have everything you like to read, and some magazines you've never heard of! My favorite time to come here was always on Sunday afternoons, after brunch across the street at the Golden West. The Avenue is such a great place for a great, lazy afternoon with friends.