The Book Loft of German Village

This was my first time visiting the Book Loft in German Village, and I absolutely loved it. The store has 32 rooms filled with books, and it feels endless in the best way. The ambience is cozy and welcoming, making it easy to get lost in browsing and exploring. I felt like I could spend my entire life here reading and still never finish. In addition to the books, they also have postcards, magnets, and other fun items that make the experience even more enjoyable. It is free to enter, though any large bags must be checked in at the front. This is truly a must-visit for any book lover.

Charming and unique book store! Literally - 32 rooms, maze like style easy to follow/get around featuring all the genres of books and more! Lovely patio with reading benches and a fountain, surrounded and lined with lush plants under plenty of shade ! Fun 30 minute visit and gift buying!

Huge bookstore, was this place designed by Sarah Winchester?! So many rooms, passages, stairways, it's easy to get lost. Good thing they have such an excellent selection of new and used books. I could literally spend an entire afternoon just hanging out here, and I don't even think they have a cafe. They do have a nice garden though. I spent about an hour wondering around, looking at everything they had to offer. They have any genre you could think of, recommendations, posters and other gifts. I probably still missed a couple of rooms. I managed to keep it to two books, but easily could've gone way off the rails here. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area.

Wow. I have died and gone to book heaven! I literally got lost in this place. One room leads into another and before you know it, you don’t remember how to get back! I could spend hours just exploring. Street level has kids and teens books. Their prices are good on some books, many are simply 5% off retail. But I found two great priced books in perfect condition. For Christmas, just give me $100 and trust me loose in this place!!

One of my favorite places to drop in, in Columbus Ohio. Purchased a few postcards to mark the places that I’ve been to send to my great niece in Atlanta. I’m more like her Nana. of music in each additional room to set the stage for quiet time and reading. Parking is on the street so make sure you pay or you’ll come out to a ticket coffee shop next-door so that’s fun but it’s great to see one of the oldest bookstores that still hanging on despite their being so much online but there’s something about holding a book in your hand that never gets old.

Overwhelming in the best possible way. If you have been looking for something for a while and would rather pick it off a shelf than order online, there is a very good chance they will have it here. It's a little challenging to get your bearings at first, and the hallways get tough to navigate when there are so many people around, but that does not take away from the experience at all. So thoroughly stocked, so carefully planned, with rooms separated by every genre you can imagine. I have been to very many bookstores, as it's a pastime of mine, and this one is way up on the list. Highly recommend a visit.

The Book Loft of German Village offers a unique and immersive experience for book lovers. With books stacked from floor to ceiling in 32 different rooms, each space features its own beautiful design that distinguishes it from the others. It's easy to get lost in this maze of knowledge, jumping from one adventure to another through the pages of countless stories.

Such a charming book store, LOTS of options to feed your reading knowledge and staff were helpful if you needed direction for a specific genre of books. Definitely worth the visit.

SO COOL. So so so many books. They had posters and shirts and games as well but they had TONS of books. 32 rooms. Some peak stuff in here shown in the pictures. It was also just such a pretty store to walk around and through and it FELT SO GOOD. They had that AC ON. Their outside has tons of well-kept flowers and gardens. They had a 5% off honestly throughout the whole store and more deals as you walk through rooms. MUST SEE IN COLUMBUS. some guy also just answered the phone "Hello Clarice" in the store so loud and that added to the positive experience.

I was really excited about discovering this place and visiting. I love browsing book stores and especially enjoy supporting mom and pop places. I stopped in on our way out of town and did not expect it to be so busy! I didn't really have any intention to purchase or not purchase anything; I just like to browse and it is always a bonus when I do find something. The space was tight throughout the store so there was not much room to roam or stop and look. I think it was more filled with people because when writing this review, others' photos make it took big. I felt like I had to walk sideways most of the time lol. There were so many books! So many genres! I thoroughly enjoy mom & pop bookstores and seem to always check them out in my travels. I do want to revisit this place again if I visit Columbus again.

If you love or even like bookstores, you will enjoy this shop. And, yes, you will probably get lost, likely more than once. Hot tip: check out the map or directory guide near the front desk BEFORE you make your way through the store. Then you will know where fiction can be found, or history, or poetry, or whatever floats your boat. Each room is fairly small and some of the corridors are even smaller so get comfortable saying "Excuse me" or "Pardon me" a few dozen times. If you are claustrophobic, this store might not be for you. But for certified bookworms, the more eclectic or eccentric the surroundings, the better. Don't ask me why that is. I found some books I have been seeking forever, so I was a happy camper. Some of the prices were not fantastic bargains but you might find a decent price if there are different editions, or sizes, of the book you hope to buy on the shelf. So keep an eye out and you might score a bargain. Good luck with parking. It's tough in this area. But your efforts will be rewarded. I think I read that there are around 500,000 books here. I don't know how that is possible but if that is the case, just wow. This shop is well worth visiting. It is delightfully weird and charming.

This bookstore is an experience! I'm not local, but I am a reader and so many locals told me I had to visit Book Loft. I didn't really understand what they were telling me until I got. It's a treasure hunt and you really have to not be claustrophobic! I enjoyed the search aspect of the place, but it was a bit overwhelming with so many people on a Saturday morning. There is so much variety here (love finding things I haven't seen elsewhere) and I found several great deals. The outside was charming and felt a bit like I was going to go visit an old friend who would service me biscuits and tea (that didn't happen, but if felt like it could). Will I go back the next time I'm in Columbus? Uh, duh, of course.

This place was so awesome oh my goodness!! As a huge bookworm, I would 10/10 recommend this place! This is the most magical bookstore I have been to this date!! But even if you're not that into books, the place itself is just so cool! It's a loft with 32 different rooms and they for one, have fantastic prices on their books!! but also they have so much other types of merch and other goodies you can get! My friends and I were in here for a good amount of time literally just exploring all the different rooms and different things they offered. The staff was also very friendly and the outside of the building itself is so pretty and a wonderful little place to just sit and enjoy being outside!!

This place is so cool! As a reader, I'm always on the hunt for books so this place is a gem. There are 32 different rooms filled with all kind of books, puzzles, posters, games, and more. Thankfully, everything's sorted by genre and there are plenty of signs directing you around. I went on a Saturday, so it was packed, but I'd love to go again on a random weekday.

The entrance is on the side of the store. The bookstore has a couple floors and many sections and rooms. This was my first visit and as I wondered around I noticed there wasn't a lot of signs to direct you to specific genres. There are lots of options within the genres. You will definitely be able to find a book on your TBR. I would recommend coming on a week day as the rows are narrow and some sections can be packed making it hard to find specific authors. There is one line to check out at the back of the store.

This was my first time in the Book Loft, and as others wrote; overwhelming in an amazing way. This is a book lovers dream paradise that's for sure. The staff are easy to find when you have a question, which was amazing customer service in my opinion, along with eager to help. German Village, itself, as I drove to park my car, kind of takes you back to simpler times, with the cobblestone streets. The 32 rooms, honestly, felt like they were never ending, appreciated the layout and variety. Had an opportunity, here as well, to purchase Christmas presents, for my fellow book lover friends at a great value. If your searching for different, unique places to check out this will appear The Book Loft. Its easy to loose track of time, and get mesmerized in the value of this gem of an independent book store.

This store is an absolute delight! I had a gift card that I have been meaning to use and was finally able to take some time and give it the love it deserves. They have room after room of every book imaginable from self help to comics and I think I spent over an hour just enjoying looking at everything. They also have fun stickers , magnets, and gifts. There are bargains as well. The staff are super friendly and kind too! Love this place and will definitely be back!

Just drop me off and come back and get me in a few hours because 32 rooms of books?! There's so much to look through, and something for everyone. Located right next to Staufs, you can get a treat and start heading to the bookstore right next door. We walked over around 10:01 and they had a line to get in, granted the line moved fast as it was to pace people throughout so folks were on top of each other when they get inside. Once you walk in they have books on tables outside with deals, and best sellers when you walk in. We had so much fun going through the different rooms and seeing different genres. They have some hidden gems and autographed copies throughout the store. I had so much fun I forgot to take pictures! All in all, highly recommend making this a store when in the area! You'll never know what you'll find! :)

When I lived in German Village, I didn't realize the treasure of The Book Loft in my own neighborhood. Now that I left Ohio, I have a greater appreciation for this great shop! They have a staggering selection of books, games, stickers, book marks, etc. I can ALWAYS find something that must go home with me. The staff is super helpful and friendly. Yes, it is a little cramped inside so do yourself a favor and avoid peak hours. If you have the pleasure of sharing the space with others you will hear fascinating conversations about books and might discover a new author.

One of my favorite book stores of all time. I went on a sunny day in March and it was packed. The selection here is incredible. Found two novels I haven't been able to find at other book stores. The prices are pretty reasonable. Please support independent book stores and don't buy from Amazon. Service is super friendly and helpful. You can meander and always discover something new. Sit on a park bench outside and soak up the sun. A Columbus institution.

This book store is definitely a must do. There is a stupid amount of books from Japanese horror manga to picture books. It's super fun to explore the maze of its 32 rooms. Since it's very confusing, there are employees everywhere walking around helping you find the book you want. In case you can't find the book you want, you could also ask them to order it in.

What a charming book store! We set out to explore German Village on Sunday but were only able to see this incredible gem! We spent over two hours+ walking from room to room. Reading a few covers and purchasing a few items! What a great experience and the prices are extremely reasonable!

What a cute place! Huge collection of rooms (30+) and genres, everything from travel to manga to YA to biographies to children's books. It's like a book maze you get lost in. The staff are friendly and helpful, and they often have special bargains. Only thing I'd mention is that since it is like a maze, it can get stuffy in there.

I've gone here several times and I love it. This store is truly a maze and if you are as bad at directions, as I am it is easy to get lost in this store (literally), but thankfully the staff have always been nice enough to tell me how to get out lol! I've gone here several times to show family and friends as well as to pick up a book for myself. I am part of a book club in my graduate school program and every time a staff member has been very kind to show me where I can find the book. Their selection is astounding, they have every genre of book you could imagine and I love how every room has a theme. It is fun to feel the vibe of each room when you are walking through the store, sometimes they have different ambient music depending on the room. Now the only reason I gave this review 4 instead of 5 stars is for the value. There's been several times where I purchase a book and then look online to see the same book cheaper. I love supporting local businesses, so this makes it worth it to me, but I can understand why some people would choose to buy their books else where. This book shop is definitely worth the visit for the experience, but don't expect to buy a book from here thinking you are getting the best deal.

It's mind blowing how many books are located in this place. Books on tables outside, upstairs, downstairs and in every nook and cranny of this place, including what appears to be broom closet sized areas too. Section 13. This is where my favorite books are located at in this house loft of books, the Classics. Many of the must read classics can be found here. Was it 38 rooms of books inside of this place, it's quite overwhelming. You need half day to a full day here.

If you are bound for the German Village, then make it a point to visit this NEW books bookstore. The entrance is located on the side porch, to the left. Wind your way up the uneven bricks and the most beautifully manicured and curated flower beds a long the route. You are given a map, most helpful because I was in search of a specific book for someone. Alas, my sought after boon was missing, we enjoyed meandering through the miles and miles of it!! Some prices seem extraordinarily low and others, not so much. My favorite book is a previously loved hardback, but as far as a new bookstore, this is close second only to Powell's in Portland Oregon!

Overwhelming in the best way. Room upon room upon room, filled to the brim with books. I lost track of time here, but I think we were here for a couple of hours. Great selection, great layout for the number of items here, and just a cool setup. I can't say I've ever been in a giant home-turned-bookstore to the scale of The Book Loft. Even if you're not a reader, this is such a cool spot -- and it will make you want to be one.

I love the Book Loft!! I take all my visitors here and it is such a good time! Located in the cutest area, the Book Loft of German village has pretty much every book ever! With 32 incredible rooms, this place is packed full of books and really organized!! They had have great deals on books, and almost always sell them for cheaper than retail stores. All the workers here are super nice and very helpful. I love love love this place and would recommend it to anyone!

This is a really cool spot. It does get crowded so be prepared for that! Some of the rooms are tiny and the rows can be narrow. I'm not sure I'd call most books being 5% off sticker price a "bargain" but it's great that there's such a large selection of books. The staff are helpful, they can look up if they have something specific in stock for you and will tell you where to find it.

What an absolute gem. I could spend hours browsing and more money than I have in this place. Tons of titles for every type of reader. I wish they had more firsts in a series, especially for things like graphic novels. Many titles are 5% off list with some more bargain priced items sprinkled throughout the store - but that collection is relatively small.

If you love books and are looking for a unique stop -THIS IS IT. I don't know if I've ever seen anything like it. It's a store that has thirty some tiny rooms organized by genre. It's like a maze/scavenger hunt to find what you want, but at the same time you'll wander through it all just to appreciate it. We showed up around 10:15 on a Saturday morning and the line was just forming. When we left an hour later, the line was halfway down the side of the building (like twenty people deep). Super fun, super unique. Prices are pretty standard! And the staff has got their routine down (you'll hear them on the walkies noting when people leave in order to let more in).

The best bookstore in all of Columbus. The Book Loft has a seemingly endless collection of both perennial and classic (non)fiction, located in the charming historic neighborhood of German Village. Walk into a cramped maze of books and I guarantee you that you won't be leaving empty-handed.

Heaven on Earth. My first recommendation to Cbus visitors and my first stop on my birthday.

Wow...lots of books. Some of the books weren't priced and there are quite a few levels and steps and not a lot of room to get by other people. Cool place though

Over rated. Crowded. Same books everywhere. Isles so close you can't pass anyone. Awful.

Was treated exceptionally rudely by a staff member at the register when I asked where the restroom was. Finally made it there (his directions were not clear at all, though it seemed obvious he tells all customers directions in the same way, each time). The bathroom was so disgusting, I turned around and went all the way back to the exit. It is not worth slogging up and down through this place just to be ignored and insulted when you have a simple question.

s book store is just soo cool and something very unique to Columbus. I have never been to one like it. I had been wanting to go for a while now but didn't realize how massive it really is. There is 34 rooms of books I believe. Some of the rooms are more like hallways but nonetheless it's huge with every book you could imagine! My mother in law and I went twice in a weekend after we went for the first time. The books are all discounted too so don't miss out on a good deal!!! Definitely recommend for anyone who likes books or even just a visiting friend.

Highlight of my trip to Columbus! We stayed close by and so our first attempt to visit would have included an outdoor wait in line (in the very cold weather), so we just decided to come back the next day. With the January coupons from the website, it actually worked in our favor to arrive on a Sunday morning (it was 8 degrees out). Because they have a cold-weather coupon, that frigid temp earned us 30% off our books. Always check out the coupon options on the website and print the page (they don't accept virtual / screen shot versions). The store itself is massive, with every little nook and cranny stacked with books. All books are new (so don't expect a used-book store vibe here). There is structure and organization, but also some books are found in more than one area so you'll start to wonder just how many copies of Gladwell's works exist between the floors! The coupon didn't get applied on top of existing discounts (the books labeled 30% off are just going to be 30%), so while we didn't get the massive steals we had hoped for, it was a great way to spend a cold morning and support a local bookstore. Would highly recommend a visit!

If you are a book lover, this is heaven! This is an old house in the German Village turned into a huge bookstore! They use every room, hallway, closet, and even under the staircases to cover the walls with bookshelves. I had to be quick on this trip, so the signs labeling genres in rooms were very helpful! I was able to find a book I've been looking for and even a newer book I hadn't heard of for a great price. Many books are labeled 5% off the price or specially priced at $5.99-$10. There are large areas of children books, young adult books, and every genre you can think of. When you arrive, you walk through the side gate, through a narrow garden area. There are benches to enjoy on a beautiful day. It's not a extremely close to the German style restaurants, but a definite place to visit in the area

The Book Loft is an magical maze of rooms and hallways the take up a huge two story Victorian house. With 32 rooms there is so much to explore and a huge selection on niche subjects. When I lived in Columbus i was a frequent customer here, and every time I come to visit I make it a point to wander the halls again finding new reads for my collection! I highly HIGHLY recommend coming here, it's definitely a special place!

This huge multi-room bookstore is a must-see. There are so many books! And the exterior of the store is beautifully lined with brick sidewalks and plants and flowers. There are plenty of staff to help you. I was there for a local author signing. I love that they support local authors.

Worth the wait for a destination. On a weekend, prepare to wait in line for 10-60 minutes depending on the time of day. Personally, I spent a solid 60-90 minutes browsing and I felt I barely cracked the surface. I loved that they had sections for very unique genres that you don't see everywhere. Although this is a discount store, I saw plenty of books with no discount listed. For the most art everything is 5% off. There are some books up to 40% off.

This is easily one of the best bookstores I've ever been to. It has everything a book lover could possibly want.

Amazing 10/10 book store. So many sections all scattered like a labyrinth of book highways. Had fun getting lost and finding myself in here. Everyone here was so nice and there were doggos. I wish I had the words to express how much you should come and enjoy this place yourself. Just go

I got lost and couldn't find my way out. Not only because of the maze like interior... but also because of all the books beckoning. The building is probably not bigger than a normal Barnes and Nobles... but all divided up into 30+ rooms. It was so much fun to get lost among all these books. I could spend a year in here.

What an amazing place. There were more rooms and books in this building then some library's I've been in. What a large assortment of books and gift items. There was not one space not used. Book cases from floor to ceiling line the walls. It was just an amazing experience and as a book lover it was a dream come true.

Lots of books. Service is wonderful and very helpful. More bang for your buck here. I found an Edgar Allen Poe book took it home found it to be not the original but an abridged version and they took it back and was able to find the original style and was able to let me pay the differences on them. Just love this place

Obviously this is a gem. They have something for everyone including posters, random author signed copies, discount books, new books, gifts, journals, stickers, and other stuff :) It is organized and each room brings a new adventure.

Excellent! Such a fun place for a date or to bring out of town guests, or just to get lost on your own. The staff is knowledgeable and courteous, and the whole place is a delight. Prices on books are great, tons of selection. Plus puzzles, cards, calendars and the like. Really fun place to shop for gifts for basically anyone. Coffee shop is next door when you want a break. Highly recommend!

32 rooms filled with books. Quirky almost maze like bookstore with every genre or topic you could want. This bookstore is not for those wanting to avoid tight quarters. You will bump elbows and squeeze through when passing other patrons or selecting a book from the shelves. Prices here are extremely affordable and their kids section is fantastic. The other fun aspect is they are open until 11PM 7 days a week!

This place is big. Too big. Am I serious? A bookstore that is too big? No. But it is a bit too convoluted. I had to wait a minute to get in. This place was packed and the line was worse when we left. It's a great store. Books, bookmarks, t-shirts, bags, etc. The one thing they don't have that I'd been hoping for was used books. I had envisioned it with used books and I am just not as into newer books. But there was such a nice selection of older titles at Book Loft.

An absolute Columbus treasure. A must do for book lovers. An old house with rooms and rooms of floor to ceiling books. I could spend hours just browsing here.

If you are looking for a unique book shopping experience with endless amounts of books then this is the place! The Book Loft in German Village is unlike any bookstore I've been to before. It doesn't look like it would be that big from the outside but it has 32 rooms all filled with different genres of books for all ages, interests, etc. you name it! I could have wandered around in this store for hours. It was very easy to navigate as all the different rooms were labeled making it easy to find the book / genre you were looking for. Books were a bit pricy but they did have several stands of books on sale. I ended up walking away with 3 different books but could have easily walked away with 10. Definitely will be going back to explore some more!

I love the Book Loft! Whether you're an avid reader or just looking to explore and browse, I think it's objectively a really charming, unique place. My friends and I have even come here just for a photoshoot. During the height of COVID, they were very responsible and intentional about social distancing and controlling the amount of people inside, which I think says a ton about their business. All the employees I've interacted with have been super friendly and resourceful, and despite the incredibly vast size and volume of this place, it is very well organized. It would definitely be a struggle to get to more than a few rooms if you're mobility impaired unfortunately, but if you have the capacity to explore it, it is definitely worthwhile to block out your schedule for a leisurely visit or date!

The coolest book store ive ever been too. Its the most wonderful maze, I loved it so much and Im definitely bringing my book lover friends to visit next time I get a chance. I only wish parking was a bit more accessible, but luckily you can park a few blocks away and get their relatively quickly and comfortably, the area is very walkable and pretty. (I visited towards the end of summer)

This is an experience! Something new around every corner. They have a much better selection than mainstream bookstores

The Book Loft was my favorite stop in Columbus. I went on a Saturday evening and did not have to wait in a line. I saw another review that they have the same books in different places which is true. A lot of the popular books you will see in multiple rooms and displays. However, I enjoyed going through each room to explore each genre and poked through some rooms with genres that I don't normally read. The books were also cheaper than other bigger stores!