Anita Veronika L.
Google
Beautiful store. Gifts, knick knacks, unique local souvenirs, etc. You can find some pretty cute stuff there, always something new. I like the seasonal themes; the layout and design are well thought out and very pretty. It’s been my go-to spot for gifts and local nostalgia for years, and it’s really improved lately with the expansion (I’d say it’s truly a “destination” now). The used book section is also great!
However, and this is the reason for my low rating, sometimes the employees can be surprisingly rude and snooty, with a number of interactions where the response felt overreactive and unnecessarily curt. Not all of them or every time (there are also some very nice people), but enough that it’s noticeable and feels consistent. It honestly seems like every other time I walk in I have some interaction, mostly with the cashiers, that leaves me a bit taken aback. At times the vibe is off, as the kids say.
It’s a shame because it detracts from an otherwise great local store that I can’t imagine Brookline without. I grew up in Brookline and have been coming to Booksmith my whole life, but sometimes, especially in the last couple of years, the employees have made me feel unwelcome, and I’ve walked out with a bad taste in my mouth. There are times I avoid going in because I’m anticipating an unpleasant interaction at the register. That’s really not how someone should feel about any local bookstore, let alone this one, which is otherwise a gem.
I hate to give Booksmith two stars. It’s an invaluable part of this town, and I sincerely hope it’s around forever. But this is something that should be addressed. A neighborhood bookstore should leave people feeling welcome, not put off. Otherwise, why bother?
