The Book Tavern

This place was great! They have a HUGE selection. The team working there was warm, friendly, helpful, and informative. I love “small town” book stores and this was one of my favorites.

The Book Tavern had that wonderful afternoon hum today, the kind that tells you a bookstore isn't just surviving but actually thriving. It was busy in the best possible way: people drifting between shelves with purpose, a small line forming at the register, and an author set up at a front table signing books while chatting with readers. Moments like that feel like a quiet victory for local culture, a reminder that #LocalBooks still matter and that Augusta shows up for them. I lingered longer than I meant to because the browsing here pulls you in. The front tables were stacked with new releases and staff picks, and the red dot discount display added that little spark of treasure‑hunt energy. The range of subjects is part of what makes the place feel so alive. Politics and gender identity sit alongside fiction and romance, sci fi and fantasy, table games, cookbooks, and a genuinely thoughtful section on Augusta history. It's the kind of curation that reflects a community rather than a trend algorithm. And of course, there's the upstairs. It's one of the shop's best features. Quieter, a little more contemplative, with shelves that reward slow wandering. A busy bookstore on a weekend afternoon is a small civic joy. The Book Tavern manages to feel both rooted and evolving, a place where Augusta's literary life gathers itself and keeps going.

This indie bookshop is so adorable, they have a fairly large selection of used & new books! The atmosphere was welcoming and I loved the overall vibe. I’ll definitely be back!

This place is magical! I cannot say enough good things about The Book Tavern and its staff. The Book Tavern has such a great selection of books, gifts, and those hard to find titles to choose from. One of my favorite things about this store is that if they are out of stock or don’t have what you are looking for, they will order it for you! I have ordered several books from them now and have not been disappointed once.

Love this bookstore! It has something for all ages! New and used - seating upstairs and downstairs. It’s definitely worth taking a drive to the historic downtown Augusta, Ga. The photos tell it all.

Great selection of new books. Upstairs is where the nerd stuff is. The prices of the used books are fair but they don't have a very wide selection. I recommend checking them out before going to something like Barnes and Noble. Support local businesses.

Beautiful store but rude service. No one greeted us, asked if we needed help, or even just said hello when walking by me and my husband. Definitely did not feel welcome at all.

What a gem of a place. I am so glad I chanced upon this bookstore today. Incredibly friendly staff and owner. Great selection of books and a beautiful atmosphere. Do check them out

We have been on a hunt for an out of print manga for a while so was looking for a bookstore that also sold used books. Found that The Book Tavern might be a good option to try out. On going in we found a beautiful bookstore that has a lot of Southern charm. The bookstore itself is laid out really nicely with books lined all the way too the top. There is also an upstairs section with a kids reading nook area. We didn't find the book we were looking for, but we still found a book. Checkout was fast and friendly, wish that I had pickedup a souveneir sticker on my way out - but maybe next time!

My friends were in from Michigan and we decided to head to downtown. Fortunate for us that The book Tavern was open! This space has an amazing selection with several signed books. They also have books at a price point that is very competitive with online vendors so why not support local! I signed up for their email list and look forward to visiting again.

This bookstore is a hidden gem! It has a huge variety for all ages! It's two floors, seating throughout the store , and great customer service! It's definitely worth visiting when downtown Augusta!

Always a joy to visit The Book Tavern. I don't live in Augusta anymore, but make a point to visit each time I return. The new location is beautiful and inviting; the high ceilings open the space and make me eager to explore the infinite universes contained in the books on the shelves. I appreciated the diversity of selection, getting tailored recommendations of books I might enjoy, and getting to people watch. I am reading one of the books David recommended for me and enjoying it immensely. Always great to discover a new author I would not have found on my own. Thankful for David and Gabi and the vision they have kept afloat and expanded over the years with the support of community. Always one of the highlights of my visits home!

Cute and cozy local bookstore. They are always helpful and have a great selection of books. They usually have a cart outside and a few other areas inside with discounted books. My favorite section is across from the cashier....good selection of mystery thrillers (used copies that are usually about $5). They also have beverages you can buy. Excited to try some of the prebiotic sodas in the future

The experience was like no other. They provide books you can not find anywhere else and have days local authors come by to sign. The atmosphere and staff are both extremely chill and friendly. They also provide many book accessories like bags, bookmarks, stickers. Just fantastic!

A quiet and quaint local bookstore with such a selection in depth. So many titles, so many artists, every genre you can think of, I couldn't have asked for more. Every guest is treated with the upmost kindness, and the environment is so serene and calm. So many great books at such a great price. I can't resist but go back soon!

Been here twice now and does not let down. They have a large selection of books for different readers. The staff has always been polite and interesting to converse with. They have many books that are on sale, clearly labeled for your attention. Pro tip: ask for a recommendation and spark that conversation. Might be an eye opener for your day.

Excellent fiction selection. Beautiful space, some of the books are marked down so that was a bonus!

Very diverse collection of books, signed copies, children's books, beautifully restored building with a helpful and friendly staff.

I have always enjoyed reading, but the past few years have kicked my bibliophilia into high gear. Shelves overflowing, stacks atop of rows. I even pretend to have some semblance of organization; reading, going to read next, will read/reread eventually, have already read/just own for some reason. And when I come across a book (new or dated) that I just have to have, I know exactly who to contact. You should know though that The Book Tavern is more than just the place to get books, graphic novels, journals, candles, and more. It is also the place to spend a morning-afternoon-day (especially a rainy one). Its "new" location (as of last year) is just down the block from the former, and now is sandwiched between Stillwater Taproom, Nacho Mama's, and Pho-Ramen'L! See what I mean? An entire day downtown without ever leaving this half of the block. You will walk in to the sight of new releases, signed copies of books, and shelves stretching to the ceiling (but don't get on the ladder, you have been warned). But you will quickly notice the sun coming through the sky lights and the metal tiles overhead. You will notice a second floor that beckons and even a few chairs calling you to rest. Some may think of all this as cliché, but in actuality it is quintessential. It is somehow every locally owned bookstore across the country yet is still distinctly Augusta. I know it sounds contradictory, but it is truly every place you've been before and yet none you've ever seen. If all of this sounds mysterious or ambiguous, it is. So stop in today and experience it for yourself.

This place is unreal. The best bookstore I've ever been to in my life. The selection is insane and they have super fair prices on used books too. If you're a horror and sci-fi fan you gotta come here.

From the moment I entered the door I knew that I had found a new home. This unique local bookstore gives me Stars Hollow vibes. The store is almost ceiling to floor books from a variety of genres. They feature rare and local book selections in a cozy space. I came to check the store out and left with 4 books and possibly signing up for their book club. It's the Target of bookstores in downtown Augusta.

I love it here. I have found some interesting and entertaining good reads at the Book Tavern. The books are organized in a way where you can find what you are looking for or stumble across something intriguing. There are chairs sprinkled around the store if you want to read through a few pages before making a purchase or just rest your feet. Today, I stopped by for a particular book and was surprised to meet a local artist doing a book signing. When I couldn't find the book I came in for, I asked an associate of the store for assistance. Marcus was extremely helpful. He looked the book up in the system and found that there was a paperback copy that wouldn't be available until Tuesday, and set me up to reserve the copy. I'm looking forward to happy reading thanks to my local book store!

I had no idea this bookstore was in the same area (next door) to New Moon cafe! Pleasant surprise as we definitely had to browse here after breakfast next door. I knew I would love this place at first sight from the street! It did not disappoint. Lots of books from used to knew--comic books too and an array of children's books too. I first met one of the book staff at Writers Weekend at Augusta University. Being new to the area, I was so glad to hear that Augusta had her own bookstore downtown! This is definitely going to be a frequent spot for me to meet new authors and find some good reads while strolling through downtown Augusta.

My favorite local bookstore. They always have something amazing for everyone in store. They can also order any book if they don't have it. On Wednesday's they have story time for the kids.

Environment: A Customer Service: A Price: B Overall Experience: A This is the type of book store I always dreamt of when I was a youngster. Stepping through the doors is like finding a safe haven--clean, organized, colorful, and quirky! This is definitely an Augusta gem! I lived in Old Town during my graduate school studies and frequented this book store. Just a three block walk to this beauty and all of its splendor. I enjoyed perusing through the shelves and reading a book or two on the front porch. And, of course, across the street is a coffee shop for all of your sweet treat fixes. Owner is very kind and hospitable. Definitely skip the local chain store and buy local! It's worth it!

Awesome selection of books both new and old/used. I found some gems. The staff is nice and not overly attentive. I hate to be hovered over while surrounded by books. This is my happy place.

What a great little book store! They have everything you could want- from new books, to rare, to old and used, you could spend hours roaming around! The store has a lot of character, and the stacks of books are just a cool feel! They can also order books for you if they don't have them in stock! PS - they offer a military discount, which is great!

Such a cozy little book shop. Sells used and new books, and some niche stationary like Field Notes and Blackwing Pencils. Loved just sitting for a bit and reading a book I brought, a lovely atmosphere to say the least! Staff was super friendly and helpful! Totally recommend stopping by.

Bang for your buck: 7/10 Quality: 10/10 Service: 10/10 Ambiance/Location: 9/10 Overall: 8/10 Cute little used book store. You could literally spend hours browsing the stacks here.

Nice little book store tucked into what has become a deserted shopping area. My only problem with the store is, we were never greeted. Not a "hello", nothing! I think in today's times where people can buy books online, a small gesture of saying hello to your customers would be nice.

I've been meaning to stop by but hardly ever get the chance to come downtown anymore so today I made sure I took the opportunity. Book Tavern sadly does NOT sell beer, but the book selection is pretty damn good all the same. They have new and used books in every genre and also, I was really pleased to see, a really wide selection of books featuring ethnic diversity that you don't see in big box book stores. The location is also great. It's right next to a coffee shop and within easy walking distance of popular restaurants and a couple of bars. It would make for a nice date night, I think, but I'm a book lover so that may just be my style. I bought a couple of kids books for my daughter and couple of longer novels for myself. I heard someone ask about videos upstairs but didn't go up there to check it out. Next visit for sure because I saw several books hat I wanted to buy but had to limit myself for now.

Stopped in just to see the selection. My husband has his degree in middle eastern history and thought he would find some stuff he didn't have but he fell short of his goal. It's a cute store, plenty of stock and genres. We came from PDX which is famous for Powell's Book Store so it was nice to see something other than a Barnes & Noble in a small town.

This place is a gem with a great selection of books. It's also great that it's open until 9pm. Reading space available throughout the shop. Grab some coffee and sit down with a good book

I love this bookstore from the children activities to the grown up book readings. Everyone is so nice there and will help you find anything you might be looking for even local authors

Absolutely wonderful selection of books & records at wonderful prices! David, the owner, is a fellow Floridian and a very good human. Great featured sections, funny description cards, an all around great book shop.

Every time I see the 50% off shelves outside I have to stop by and peruse the titles. I rarely purchase anything, but browsing the shelves helps pass the time. Some of the books are still a bit expensive after the half off, but I've found a few gems buried in the stacks and rushed to the counter to purchase. It's great that this place is right across from an awesome coffee shop, New Moon. Buy a book, buy some coffee, life is good.

Who doesn't like a fun bookstore? The smell and the excitement of finding that special read! Well we found this place by accident while we were looking for a place to eat! When you go in you will find your spider senses will be excited as you see how they have the books arranged! First off I noticed they had a wonderful collection of comic books new ones and collectibles, All I can say is my oldest grandson now has some great presents for Christmas! We found out the owners had just been married for a few weeks and spent their honeymoon in Charleston! It is a small world. My wife was looking for a special read and the owner went out of his way to find the book for her. He knew he had it somewhere and it was fun to watch the owner go on a mission to find my wife this special book she wanted.it was called, Beartown: A Novel, in case you were wondering. The smell and delight to the eyes of a small town family owned bookstore cant be replicated by the big chains. My wife and I like to shop local and we're glad we did!

Could not love this place more-- a true reader's paradise! Great, knowledgable staff with a fantastic selection of new and used books. I came in wanting some pretty random books -- a late Hemingway and an early Fitzgerald-- and ended up with those, plus a Harry Potter audiotape (yes, they have audiotapes too!) and first edition signed book for a friend. Luckily they were also having a post-Christmas sale, so I scored a 25% off discount on top of their already decent prices. Support local Augusta businesses and find your way to The Book Tavern!

I am so happy that I've made this my permanent bookshop! David and his staff always make it so easy for me to order books if they don't have them in stock, they're all super friendly and remember who we are. Really happy to be able to support local!

The Book Tavern...very fond memories of my hometown. Being as I have an affinity to peruse bargain stores, thrift stores, flea markets and used book stores, I really appreciate quality ones. If one visits the bulk of these establishments in a town, most of the time they will find some very sketchy places. Book Tavern is not one of these. First, the staff is incredibly friendly and very active on social media. They often are tweeting deals you can score if you are in the area, and they hold various contests through this method also. They are also incredibly knowledgeable about their store and the books in them. The staff is happy to help, and easy to talk to. The setup is like most used book stores with a variety of shelves filled to the brim with books. Unlike most used book stores, however, there is actual organization here. When you look at the category "Non-Fiction: Business and Management" you actually find John Maxwell and Steve Jobs, as opposed to most used book stores where you would find titles such as 'The Art of Snow Globe Making' and the ever popular 'Goats Cry Wolf: The confused story of Simon and Estelle'. I appreciate this. This is a great local spot that everyone should try and support. They usually have a limited amount of new releases also, so if you must have a book on release day, why not go support this group?

Very cool bookstore! I love going to local book stores, and this place had a nice selection of political and social topics as well as local novels and histories. I think the prices were decent, but I don't have that seasoned of a price gauge. The employees were very nice and recommended places to go after we told them that we were from out of town. Go check it out!

I am in LOVE with this bookstore! Has a great variety of books. The guy that helped me was insanely knowledgeable and helpful! I wouldve bought every book he recommended if I could! Lol I just love how down to earth this place is. I could spend all day there!

I adore Book Tavern! Tons of personality, great exchange policy. You definitely won't always find the exact book you're looking for, but you're bound to stumble upon something that you didn't know you wanted. Lots of nice surprises tucked in these shelves! =)

Owner has an eye for interesting older out of print books with good art or small original distribution. Good location right across from a cafe/coffee shop. Nice event and literary discussion space, enjoy the book club I attend there.

The Book Tavern is awesome! I found a great A. Christie compilation there and a nice literary criticism section. It's more library-ish than chain book stores and has a charm all it's own. This book-lover's Mecca even has deep-dish discount books on display by day on the patio! ... It's in the bottom of an apt. building with a great restaurant across the breezeway. I like it alot.

I think this bookstore is probably ok in a non-Covid situation. However, after having been in the store for 20 minutes without a mask on and with no one saying anything to me, I was asked to leave without being allowed to purchase my book selections. The employee wasn't rude per se, but was adamant that I couldn't purchase my books. No discussion of medical exemptions or anything. I am very tired of feeling like a second-class citizen for not wearing a mask. I like supporting local businesses, but I guess I can't support this one.

Awww, Augusta... I'm learning to love you. Used bookstore of awesomeness, tiny but compact & well-chosen selections. Plus an apparently awesome owner whom I want to ask to be my friend based simply on overheard conversations while keeping up the book-browsing illusion.

This place is awesome, David knows his books and will always do what he can to get you what you desire. Plus he has an awesome beard!

The owner remembered us from a restaurant that we had been at earlier and was extremely friendly. He was happy to share his thoughts on Harper Lee's new books and give a quick review. There is a smoothie place with wifi next door for your crazy friends who don't love books. They even put up with the reverberating energy from our little ones. Excellent bookstore!

Great to have a quaint little bookstore downtown. Staff are very helpful. They have a good selection of new and used books. I mostly scavenge the cheap used books and check out graphic novels. Be on the look out for events and sidewalk sale on a nice day. Often artists will be painting out front, which is cool to watch.

This is a world-class bookstore in a surprising location. Came here during a recent trip to Augusta based on the Yelp reviews. When we walked in, I was drawn to the antique section by the stairs, where I found several interesting old titles. Moving through the store, it was clear that there was a mind at work - the overall selection is terrific, as are the sections/displays and the specific books turned out for spotlight. Staff and owner are friendly and easygoing. It was very pleasant to find used and new books shelved alongside each other, and the large sale section outside had great stuff. Will look forward to returning.

I'm a big book fan and they had some neat stuff. However, it is small and the selection isn't that big. Probably the best used bookstore in the area though.

David was super informative! It was my first time in Augusta and he gave us greats tips. The books in there were amazing. Could spend an entire day just browsing. He also gave great suggestions.

I love this place. As a closet bookworm, it's nice to find a place like this in Augusta. And it fits all budgets!

With weekly story and craft times, partnerships with artists to create visual art events, book clubs, author visits and a wide selection of new and used books, The Book Tavern is Augusta's best kept secret. David is the owner and he does an amazing job. He's also super knowledgeable.

This is the only store in the Augusta, Georgia area that offers book lovers a truly wonderful book shopping experience. The owner and staff are very knowledgeable and themselves well read...they can pair you up with the perfect book every time. Great selection and prices. I never seem to leave the shop without at least one new item. They carry used DVDs in addition to new and used books. Shop local. This has got to be the area's number one independent bookseller.

This is such a neat bookstore and I love the layout. All the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. I have even had to email a few times and the response time is great. They also have a buy back program which is fun.