Auntie's Bookstore

I stopped by Auntie’s Bookstore on a visit to downtown Spokane the other day to check out what a local non-chain bookstore would look like. I love the interior and the old-school design of the flooring. Stopping in at local bookstores is always a joy for me as a thriller author, as I like to connect with the community. I think this could be an interesting place for a book signing if they support it. The book stacks had an interesting design where each end didn’t loop around. I wouldn’t have expected that For a store like this, but it definitely allowed them to pick up more square footage for retail space so that was an advantage. When unique thing was the store appeared to be attached with open doors to other businesses. It was a result. They didn’t have a direct cash flow partnership, but they were all friends. That actually made it in need experience. The vibe was definitely Washington state and I made it a pretty interesting experience. The staff was nice and courteous. I didn’t have too many questions, but they were eager to answer anything I asked. It’s a fun bookstore and is worth visiting if you need books in downtown Spokane.

So many great books and novelty items to browse through. I love that its open late so you can enjoy after a shopping day downtown. There is no pressure to buy, but do look through staff recommendations 😉! Found some gems. I even founds some great art in the local artisans shop connected This was my nights haul! I live on a remote area and appreciate the animals, especially the birds. I also picked up Sandwich by Catherine Newman.

This is a wonderful bookstore! Connected inside is Uncle's Games shop and a Made in... Spokane(?) shop, full of wondrous works from local artists. The bookstore has wood floors, and such an easygoing, comfortable atmosphere with good windows light. Lots of things to peruse, books included! Something for everyone here. Drop by sometime, it's cool.

We have used Amazon for convenience. Nothing like taking my elementary aged child to a local bookstore for the first time. She asked the staff about the book and they told her the section and we went and looked by author's last name. She was so happy when she found it. Plus they are local. It is always nice to pay just a little more to keep local folks employed and local businesses afloat. I think I paid $19 for the book and on amazon it was $16, but the experience and helping local I think we're worth it. Great place. Will go again.

What a wonderful place to visit. My favorite sales person Candy always greets me with a big smile and knows me by name! Great place to find books for young and old and in foreign languages ... even attend an event. I love the little side stores: Uncle's Games Puzzles and Pottery Place Plus.

Love, love, love this bookstore. Quirky, fun and local. Also beautiful coop art store on back of bookstore. A must visit when in Spokane

Amazing bookstore. Friendly and great staff. Love that they'll bring your purchased books out to you curbside. Support local!

Such a cool bookstore! Huge variety, friendly service, and lots of bookish things too.

Huge selection of books! I loved the different genres and a lot of signed copies and sprayed edges! They also had more than just books with merch, cards, notebooks, puzzles, games, bookmarks, etc. They also had a full upstairs area that I didn't visit but was told there's a seating area to read. It looked like they host events as well! The other side is Uncle's which is the games side - def check it out!

Bookstores are hard to come by nowadays. But bookstores like Auntie's are even harder! We visited this super cute establishment yesterday. I loved every nook and cranny! I especially loved the children's section. The employees were super nice and helpful. I ended only getting 1 book. Wish I got more! When we come back to visit, I'll definitely come back and with my kids!

I liked this store! Well organized, the staff checked on you, and was very clean. They had a huge selection of everything. Even local people. Prices were normal for new books.

Beautiful book store! Come here with extra dollars in your parking meter because you won't want to leave!!! So much to look at! Even an art gallery attached. Next time I will plan for more time! Beautiful shop.

One of my favorite bookstores! I always stop by when I'm in Spokane. Great poetry section, small press section, and staff picks.

Maybe this is that only way for independent book stores to survive, just great books throughout. Love their many recommendations. Really great that they have recommendations for different people. Love that they have recommendations on each section. This is no Barnes and Noble, and will remind you what you are missing buying from Amazon.

A lovely bookstore with a huge selection! A great place to find new and interesting books.

Fantastically well-curated indie bookstore with a wide selection of books. It was so hard to only buy two books, I could have easily brought home a dozen after just a half-hour of browsing. Very friendly and helpful staff, a wonderful place to hang out and find new books.

Located conveniently on Main Avenue you can find Auntie's Bookstore, an independent bookstore. There is a section for banded books that explains why each book has been deemed "inappropriate." It's also located right across from the romance section. There is also a children's section in the back of the shop. I came by Auntie's for thank you cards. There is a nice selection of greeting cards sold individually and by the box. Auntie's is also the perfect place to pick up a notebook. There is a large selection of leather-bound notebooks in every color and size you can imagine. You can also find stickers, patches, and canvas tote bags.

I have been going to Auntie's Bookstore for a decade. The staff has become so rude. We come to this bookstore to support local business but the staff is just awful. It makes me not want to come back and support.

Truly the most magical bookstore... we have enjoyed visiting Auntie's for many years- starting with the Harry Potter midnight release parties!! This beautiful building in downtown Spokane has friendly staff, and an endless amount of books to browse. There is also a large children's section. Absolutely visit Auntie's for any book needs :-)

Lots of different options and sections. I love all the recommendations from the staff. The building is really cool. Will say Barnes and noble had a bigger selection. Great value too.

Loved this bookstore! They have a huge selection and I really liked their themed tables. The staff were super friendly and answered my random questions thoughtfully. Have been here twice so far in my trip to Spokane, will definitely come back again! Edit: I ended up selling a couple of books to them including one I had bought here the day before and for two books that were $20+ each I got $7.20 in store credit. If you're looking to support a local bookstore then definitely sell here but if you need the money I would do more research.

Everything a bookstore should be. The displays really draw you in from the great window displays to the walls of books and the table labeled 'Auntie's Picks'. As a bookstore lover, this store is one of the best.

I read the reviews and I so wanted to like this bookstore as much as everyone else. I walked in amped up and walked out thinking it was an okay bookstore. I'd classify it as a medium size bookstore with a little bit of this and a little bit of that here and there. I couldn't figure out how they organized their sections as for example the various books on baking bread were in the cooking section but it wasn't organized by last name or even subject. Like it said various broad categories like "Vegan" or something similar but found a general bread baking book in that section and a quick glance at the recipes confirmed it didn't align to the category it was in. I wouldn't say it had an amazing selection either. There was a very tiny selection for science that was probably a twentieth of the size of the children's selection. Now, I have no need for kids books but if you're in the market that selection looked robust. I also didn't have the warm, friendly experience people mentioned about the employees. It was a busy Saturday and very crowded. The employees were hurried, rushed, and the ones I talked with short and to the point. They seemed more exhausted than anything else. I'm glad I stopped in and it's a cute store, but I didn't leave impressed.

Bookstores are becoming dinosaurs of the retail world, which makes this place all the more special! The perfect place to browse if you have some time to kill in downtown Spokane. They stock an excellent selection of books and all sorts of other goodies like unique greeting cards, vintage t-shirts, and tons of little gifts and various accoutrements (enamel pins, bookmarks, stickers, etc.). Love that they have a "Hate Has No Business Here" poster on the front door, meaning that ALL are welcome. A great little bookshop!

Lovely bookstore in the heart of Spokane! I absolutely love this store, it reminds me of a small Powell's bookstore. The books are organized and there are many additional items including. A great selection of stationary, journals, and games! We had a nice time exploring the different options and I was really impressed by the book displays, particularly on multicultural literature and education as well as diverse voices. My only concern is the staff, not one of the 5 people we saw, were friendly or made us feel welcome.

Auntie's Bookstore is one of my favorite stores in Spokane. Entering the old building is like starting an adventure, books everywhere, like you walked into a thick forest of books. The staff have real smiles and are always helpful. But wait, there is more. Within the world of books is a subworld of games. The icing on the cake of my life has been reading a good book or playing games with friends. Auntie's Bookstore should be consumed frequently :)

Great local, independent bookstore with something for everyone! This Saturday, I was able to find some regional outdoor books I had been looking for. Also, I found a leadership book in brand new condition that I thought I wouldn't be able to find locally. It was fun to browse and find the exact books I wanted. The employees are friendly and helpful. Although the parking downtown is a downside, I highly recommend stopping by!

This place is huge. We got great parking right across the street and found the location very easily. My one gripe is that there were not very many used books here, but I am traveling and allowed myself to treat myself to three books and a cute magnet. This place has an incredible selection. First off, I've been looking to find a Thomas Bernhard book in person for YEARS and finally found a copy here. They had a lot of less popular but very important authors which I appreciated so much. I went to about 7 bookstores across 7 states during a week long road trip and found myself slightly bored with so many repeating titles. This place definitely woke me up and reinvigorated my excitement. Visit this place!

Shop local!! Visit this awesome bookstore. I've been coming here for years to shop for books. They have both new and used books-so very budget friendly. I always end up buying something when I come in. I could browse here for hours. Check out the staff favorites and local authors. They also have great gift options stocked as well. The staff is so kind and resourceful. Coming to this store is always a treat. Be sure to check it out!

I love Auntie's Bookstore. Every time I come to Spokane, I stop in. They have a great set-up and I love the care staff puts into giving recommendations and creating relevant displays! If you love to shop local, independent bookstores, you've got to shop at Auntie's!

Can you even describe the wonderful smell of an authentic bookstore?! Ummmm!! Loved walking into Aunties per the recommendation of Jess Walter. I came in to nose around wanting to purchase an Aunties magnet but unfortunately they didn't have any. Nonetheless, I was able to pick up a Spokane Magnet to commemorate my visit. Thanks for the kindness!

I love aunties, and usually only have good things to say about customer service. But today, when paying, the clerk accidentally touched my hand and this look of true disgust crossed his face, he grabbed some sanitizer and walked away. I had to get the receipt and gather my bags myself. If human contact is so repulsive, retail might not be for you.

This place was everything I hoped and dreamed for a book store. Friendly staff, super organized and larger selection of books. There's also a local store attached to it where local artists sell their art. Cute Knick knacks like enamel pins and totes. They even have small toys for kids and puzzles. There's a store next door that's attached that sells a bunch of board games also -- I didn't have a chance to go in because my parking meter ran out.

Spokane's premier independent bookstore! Knowledgeable employees help and celebrate books. Come and get lost in books for a few hours. Cruise staff recommendations, new releases, and an entire section of "banned books" representing wonderful classics and new contributions. And then there's the children's' section with carpet, comfy seating, and colorful posters and stuffed animals. Proud to have been a customer foe decades.

Oh man if you want to learn how to be a virtue signaling expert they have 20 books on how not to be racist right in front as you walk into the door. I used to come to this bookstore and to the gift shop in the back but think I'll skip this year at Auntie's and buy my presents elsewhere because the store seems to be projecting some white guilt.

Cool place. Carefully arranged. Large selection and ample floor space, but books are well-curated and easy to find. As others have noted this isn't a place to get obscure tomes. They cater to the modern mass-market consumer and their selection reflects this. Prices are comparable to a Barnes & Noble. Smallish children's section but cute, with a little out-of-the-way reading alcove.

We were out and about in Downtown Spokane. My wife loves bookstores. We both enjoy looking at and buying books. We normally find them friendly and charming. This place is not happy, warm, fun, or anything like that. The staff I met and tried to interact with were too busy for me, and how could I possibly bother then here, in the bookstore. Maybe it was hell week, were were only 2 of about 5 people in the store. Sorry I came in your store. It will not happen again.

I love the selection and I love the vibe here. Every time I am in town I have to stop. Still, this place really needs some seating and even better, a coffee shop. I suspect I would spend more money than I usually do here if I were afforded the opportunity to pick up items and browse through them, comfortably seated and enjoying a beverage. Unfortunately there is almost no place to sit and it can be difficult coming with a friend who relies on a cane and cannot stand for long periods of time.

" Awesome Collection of Books " My wife and I visited Aunties Bookstore in Spokane Washington last week and were amazed at the collection of BOOKS ! That's correct, BOOKS ! You just don't see bookstores any more. Bookstores are going out of business at an alarming rate all across the United States, as more and more people rely on social media devices to get their book fix. It was nice to see this large bookstore not only open, but full of customers and thriving ! If you love books, and happen to be in Spokane Washington, make a visit to Auntie's Bookstore and you will not be disappointed!

This is the best bookstore I have been to in my life. It has everything. Awesome used-book section too. Very cute atmosphere. I was able to stock up on books while I was in town. I will be back.

Such an incredible little corner store! It's all unfinished wood floors and high ceilings and the energy and aura is insane!! I love all their T-shirts, coffee mugs and other literary related knick-knacks and their "Special Collection" gives me goosebumps, the book bindings are so pretty! Upstairs there is a small loft where authors can do (regularly held) readings and the shop shares an open door with a local artist gallery that's been around for 40 years. In the back left of the store there's a "Children's Corner," which features lower ceiling levels and a more "nook-like" vibe. But, as an adult who doesn't favor children, I enjoy that they're sequestered well away from the central area of the shop. Definitely worth checking out, if for no other reason than to window shop and run your fingers across the spines.

It is so fun to find a bookstore!! This is a small store but they offer books in a large variety of topics. Although the associate was not familiar with culinary and wine books and authors nor new releases, he was very helpful and nice. I found two books quickly. I was very happy with my purchase. I love having the personalized service and I appreciated information on other local businesses. Please support small, local businesses which are fighting to keep the core of cities, like Spokane, alive during difficult times.

What a historical gem in this City. There is nothing like a mom n pop bookstore, filled with character and nostalgia. So pleased with the easy lay out, the selection, the art work and the features of the building. I just wandered around, and man can you wander a while. I even saw people comfortably reading, wrapped up in their book on the floor. This is truly a special place in Spokane.

Found a vintage 1949 Babar and Father Christmas children's book at Auntie's Bookstore. Nice selection of new and used books. Pleasant staff and a well maintained business.

First of all, reading is a lost art, but it is truly one of the most rewarding and relaxing things I do. I always feel really accomplished when I finish a book and it doesn't leave me feeling crummy like certain reality TV shows do. I always learn something and end up feeling more connected to the world around me. Reading feeds my soul. Also, I highly prefer reading actual books. I don't like clicking around when I'm going to sit in my hammock for hours. I like the smell of paper and the weight of a book. I like how they stack up on my shelves like colorful slices of knowledge. One of the other great parts of the book ritual is book store shopping. Wandering, noticing, and being surprised when something catches your attention. Auntie's has it all for readers... great notes from staff about books they enjoyed, lists for bookclub ideas, author readings, events, etc. Total feel good shopping experiences all around. Great place to pick up your latest book club read or a gift. OR, if you are here for a convention at the Grand Hotel and need something amazing to read on your flight... Fun children's section (in the back left of the building). Great fair trade chocolates too if you prefer to avoid child slavery in cocoa production. I like to come here, pick up a few books, and then wander through the other great local businesses that weave into the same building (Barrister Tasting Room, Butcher Bar, Sante, Uncles, etc.)

For the third year in a row Aunties has ignored national women's month in March. They instead leave up black history month in their store front which features almost no women. March should have a place in their window for women of all ethnicities and persons who identify as women. As a woman I will not shop there as they don't recognize my gender or person's who identify as my gender.

I absolutely love shopping here. It is located right downtown and has such a fantastical feel to it! They have every book, card, gift idea, journal, even socks you could hope for. The staff are so helpful and take the time to take you to what you are looking for. I am being intentional in writing reviews when I have wonderful experiences. It is a blessing during these challenging times. I could spend hours dreaming in here!

LOVE this HUGE bookstore! So much to see and wander through, especially the children's section if you're looking for something for that special grandchild . We will be back! A must Spokane stop!

Auntie's is the thing I think I miss most about Spokane, besides my family, of course. Sure, they have good housing prices. Their crime rate is pretty low (meth lab busts aside). Traffic is non-existent unless there's a head-on collision involving multiple semis. They are close to several Indian reservations and thus there is no better place in Washington to get fireworks. They are a half hour away from Couer'd Alene, home to the best swimming, fishing, and camping in Idaho*. My point is that Spokane has a bona fide treasure. A one of a kind gem. Don't worry, I won't make a list of books that I've gotten from here. I don't want to bore you to death. As other reviewers have noted, the used books are sometimes pretty used, but then that's why they were given that name. The readings they have are normally lively and interesting. Chuck Palahniuk did a reading there a couple of years ago but I couldn't get in due to the line of fans stretching around the block. If you are in Spokane and you like books, you must go here. *I was NOT bribed by the Spokane Chamber of Commerce to write this portion of my review. Spokane: A Great Place to Visit!

I have to give them 5 stars because on a road trip from Los Angeles, CA up to the Pacific Northwest, our daughter left her stuffed "Froggy" in the toy store that is attached to Aunties Bookstore. Not knowing where she left it exactly, I called Aunties and the nice women who answered not only looked for "Froggy", but also called me back twice with updates and then offered to mail it to us, as we continued on our road trip, for the low cost of $5 even though I offered to pay more. Now lost "Froggy" aside, it is a very nice bookstore. Having a 3 year old, we were very happy with the children's section in the back. The books were nice, the decor impressive and they had appropriate sized chairs for parents and kids to sit in while you sampled the books (read a story to your child). Now not only are they nice, and the books enjoyable, but the bookstore has the added benefit of sharing the same space as a toy store and restaurant. The restaurant is named Santé and the food there was very good. Next time I'm in Spokane, you know where I am headed.

They have so many reviews of books and so many books and I love the way it's all organized and I love the knick-knacks. I wish I knew where everything was made though (American or fair pay?) This store is also HUGE and really friendly about browsing folks. I could've walked around forever. Felt a bit dizzy though.

Staff was very friendly. They made my family feel as though we were not simply another face but an actual friend they hadn't seen in far too long. I'd recommend Auntie's Bookstore to anyone who knows what they want, who may be unsure what they want or even just passing through town (as we were).

I called a local used bookstore looking for a cheap copy of 'Peter Pan". The dingbat on the phone said , what I thought I'd heard, which was "actor". I said I didn't want a movie and she said,as snotty as can be " Who is the AUTHOR?" You work in a bookstore and you don't know that? Jumped in the car and went to Auntie's. Clerk didn't miss a beat and said "Oh, that would be in children's classics." and took me to that section. Very helpful. Well,well,well. I locked my keys in the car. Big dummy. I went back into the store and a lovely young woman got on the computer to find me a lockout service, which I called. She even found me a chair to sit in while I waited the 45 minutes. Got a head start on reading my book! Oh,to that ding bat at the other store? JM Barrie.

I have loved this bookstore since I was a teenager and before their move to the current location. I practically grew up in Auntie's and I visit every time I'm in town!

Bountiful book selection, savvy staff, ahhhh-inducing ambiance. Auntie's is fabulous! You want to buy a book or two, park yourself in a chair or at a table and linger. Sadly, during my visit I was on vacation and on the run to meet a schedule; but I'd plan on more time for Auntie's if I'm in Spokane again. This is a "destination" spot. Seriously. Plan for it. And I say this as a Portland Oregon native who has been a pilgrim to the incomparable Powell's books in that city many times. Auntie's is different than Powell's but it is every bit as special. And while you're at Auntie's you can wander next door to the toy store Uncle's to check out the amazing collection of toys there, including a nearly unbelievable number of jigsaw puzzles.

I liked the book store but, I had to give it 3 stars because, I was disappointed that there was no where to sit and review my choice of books. The aisles are narrow and I did not want to stand in someone's way while trying to make a decision of which item to purchase. The children's area is cute and they do have a nice selection of journals and unique greeting cards.

I spent a lot of time at this bookstore yesterday. The store has been in existence since 1978 (it's had a new owner for just about a year), but the building is quite old and it's *lovely*. The interior is very expansive and it's set up very attractively, with a good selection of both new & used books. In particular, the Local Interest section has a great selection. All of the employees were very friendly, and I had a wonderful conversation with Frank.