Tucked away at 8034 N 19th Ave in Phoenix, Arizona, Bookmans Phoenix Entertainment Exchange is one of those rare places that feels like a treasure hunt every single time you walk through the door. With a 4.5-star rating from nearly 7,000 reviews, this massive used bookstore has earned a loyal following from book lovers, gamers, music fans, and collectors alike.
Beyond just books, you can find everything from vinyl records and video games to jewelry, board games, and musical instruments. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a longtime regular, Bookmans Phoenix has something waiting to surprise you on every shelf.
A Book Collection That Seems Endless
Walking into Bookmans Phoenix and seeing the sheer number of books on the shelves is a moment that stops you in your tracks. The collection spans nearly every genre imaginable, from mystery and sci-fi to self-help, history, and romance.
Used books sit alongside newer titles, giving shoppers a mix of affordable finds and fresh reads.
One customer described finding “My Year of Rest and Relaxation” for just $7, which is the kind of deal that keeps people coming back. Another reviewer called it their “Adult Disneyland” because of how many genres are represented, including a notably large LGBTQ section that outshines most other used bookstores in the area.
Browsing here feels leisurely and rewarding. You never quite know what you will stumble upon, and that unpredictability is exactly what makes the hunt so much fun for book lovers of all ages.
Massive Store Layout Worth Exploring
Bookmans Phoenix is not your average neighborhood bookshop. The store is genuinely enormous, and first-time visitors often compare navigating it to wandering through a friendly maze.
Sections branch off in unexpected directions, and new discoveries seem to pop up around every corner.
Some shoppers admit the layout can feel a little overwhelming at first. Signage is not always easy to spot, and used books, new books, and random collectibles share shelf space in ways that keep you on your toes.
But most visitors agree that getting a little lost is half the fun.
Plan to spend at least an hour or two if you want to see everything the store has to offer. Reviewers consistently recommend wandering the entire store leisurely rather than rushing through.
The size alone makes it a destination worth visiting, especially on a hot Arizona afternoon when air conditioning is a bonus.
Video Games and Gaming Consoles Galore
Gamers who visit Bookmans Phoenix quickly realize this is not just a bookstore. The gaming section stocks used video games, consoles, and accessories across multiple platforms, making it a solid stop for anyone hunting a deal on their favorite titles.
One reviewer shared the excitement of picking up a Nintendo Switch game and completing their very first trade-in during the same visit. Another regular specifically recommends the store for old gaming systems, saying you can spend hours just exploring that section alone.
A few customers have noted that used game prices can run a little higher compared to some specialty shops. That said, the trade-in option adds real value, especially if you choose store credit over cash, which typically offers a better return.
For casual gamers and dedicated collectors alike, the selection here is broad enough to make every visit feel worthwhile.
Records, CDs, and Music for Every Era
Music lovers have a lot to explore at Bookmans Phoenix. The store carries a respectable vinyl records section alongside a larger CD collection, covering everything from classic rock and jazz to current pop and throwback hits.
It is the kind of place where you might flip through a bin and uncover an album you have been searching for years.
One reviewer specifically praised the mix of current artists and retro throwbacks, calling it a great spot to find gifts or simply kill some time. The variety ensures that whether you grew up with cassettes or prefer streaming-era artists on physical media, there is something here that will catch your eye.
Prices on music items tend to be reasonable, and trade-ins are accepted, so you can bring in your old CDs or records and walk out with store credit toward something new. It is a win for any music enthusiast browsing on a budget.
Board Games and Puzzles for Family Fun
Board game fans will find a decent collection at Bookmans Phoenix, with both new and used titles spread across dedicated shelving. From classic family games to more complex strategy titles, the selection caters to a wide range of players and age groups.
One enthusiastic reviewer said the huge selection of board games was one of the main reasons they originally walked into the store, and they were not disappointed. The store also carries puzzles, though a couple of reviewers pointed out that puzzle prices can lean a bit high compared to what you might expect from a resale shop.
Still, stumbling across a hard-to-find game or a puzzle with a unique design makes the browsing experience genuinely enjoyable. If you are shopping for a gift or looking to add something new to your game night rotation, Bookmans is absolutely worth checking out before heading to a big-box retailer.
Trade-In Program That Rewards You
One of the most talked-about features at Bookmans Phoenix is its trade-in program. Bring in your gently used books, movies, music, video games, or instruments, and the store will evaluate them and offer you either cash or store credit in return.
Store credit typically offers roughly double the value compared to the cash option.
A happy customer shared that she brought in two large totes of items and the store accepted about 80 percent of what she brought, leaving her with a satisfying amount of credit to spend. The process is straightforward, though wait times can vary depending on how busy the store is on a given day.
It is worth knowing that trade-in values depend on the store’s current inventory needs and the condition of your items. Going in with realistic expectations and a flexible attitude tends to lead to the best experience with this program.
Jewelry and Collectibles That Surprise You
Not everyone walks into Bookmans expecting to leave with a piece of jewelry, but it happens more often than you might think. The store carries an assortment of affordable jewelry, collectible pins, keychains, and Funko Pops that are scattered throughout the store in eye-catching displays.
One reviewer shared that she spent just $32 and walked away with a keychain, three sets of earrings, and a button pin, calling every item delightfully priced for her bargain-loving mindset. That kind of surprise find is part of what gives Bookmans its reputation as a place where you never quite know what will catch your eye.
These smaller collectibles make great gifts or fun personal additions without breaking the bank. Whether you are a pin collector, a Funko Pop enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a good deal on accessories, the collectibles section at Bookmans delivers consistent charm and unexpected treasures.
Musical Instruments Worth a Look
Few people expect to find musical instruments at a bookstore, but Bookmans Phoenix is far from an ordinary bookstore. The instrument section draws in musicians of all skill levels, from beginners looking for an affordable first guitar to experienced players hunting for a unique find at a fair price.
Multiple reviewers mentioned instruments as one of the highlights of their visit, with one calling the selection “really cool” and another noting how much fun it was to browse even without a specific purchase in mind. The instruments add a dimension to the store that makes it feel more like a community entertainment hub than a simple resale shop.
If you play music or know someone who does, stopping by the instrument section during your next visit is well worth your time. You might find exactly what you need, or at the very least, enjoy plucking a few strings while you browse the rest of the store.
DVDs and Movies for Every Taste
Physical media fans will appreciate the DVD section at Bookmans Phoenix, which carries a broad range of titles spanning decades of cinema and television. From beloved classics to more recent releases, the selection covers enough ground to satisfy casual viewers and dedicated collectors alike.
One reviewer highlighted DVDs as a specific reason to visit, noting that the store reliably stocks titles that are harder to find elsewhere. Since streaming services come and go, owning a physical copy of a favorite film never really goes out of style, and Bookmans offers an affordable way to build that collection.
Prices on used DVDs tend to be reasonable, making it easy to grab a few titles without feeling guilty about the total at checkout. Pair a DVD find with a great used book, and you have yourself a very satisfying afternoon of entertainment shopping without spending a fortune on either.
Children’s Section Built for Young Readers
Parents who bring their kids to Bookmans Phoenix will find a dedicated children’s section stocked with books, toys, and educational resources designed to spark a love of reading from an early age. The section feels welcoming and is easy enough for young visitors to explore on their own.
One longtime customer described the children’s area as one of the standout features of the store, noting how much it has grown over the years to include more than just picture books. Educational materials, toys, and age-appropriate games make it a well-rounded spot for families shopping together.
Bringing a child to a place that celebrates books and creativity is always a good investment of time. Bookmans makes that experience affordable and accessible, with used children’s books available at prices that make it easy to walk out with a small stack without stressing about the cost.
Friendly Staff That Makes a Difference
A great store is made even better by the people who work there, and Bookmans Phoenix earns consistent praise for its staff. Reviewers frequently mention employees who go out of their way to help, whether that means answering questions, calling over a coworker via the intercom to assist a customer, or simply striking up a friendly conversation at checkout.
One reviewer said the cashiers genuinely care enough to chat while ringing up purchases, which adds a warm, community-feel to what could otherwise be just another transaction. Another noted that staff members were incredibly helpful during their very first visit, making the experience far less overwhelming than it might have been otherwise.
That kind of consistent, friendly service is not something every retail store can claim. For a place as large and inventory-rich as Bookmans, having a knowledgeable and approachable team on the floor makes browsing feel comfortable and enjoyable from start to finish.
Dog-Friendly Policy for Pet Owners
Here is something that not every bookstore can say: Bookmans Phoenix welcomes well-behaved, leashed dogs inside the store. For pet owners who hate leaving their furry companions behind, this policy is a genuinely appreciated bonus that sets the store apart from most retail environments.
One reviewer specifically called out the dog-friendly atmosphere as a reason to give the store extra credit, mentioning it as a great way to spend a hot Arizona summer day while keeping your pup cool and entertained alongside you. The store’s spacious layout gives dogs plenty of room to roam without feeling cramped or stressful.
Of course, basic pet etiquette applies, and owners are responsible for keeping their dogs calm and leashed throughout the visit. But for those who love bringing their dog along on errands, knowing that Bookmans is a welcoming stop makes planning a day out in Phoenix just a little bit easier.
Teacher Discount and Community Values
Bookmans Phoenix is more than a place to shop. It functions as a community hub that actively supports the people who live and work in the area.
One standout perk is the teacher discount offered to qualifying educators, a small but meaningful gesture that reflects the store’s commitment to learning and literacy.
A reviewer who takes advantage of this discount praised the staff’s friendliness and expressed genuine pride in supporting a locally owned business rather than a large national chain. That sense of community connection is woven into the store’s identity in a way that feels authentic rather than performative.
Shopping at Bookmans means your money stays within the local economy while also helping reduce waste through the resale and trade-in model. For anyone who values sustainability, education, and community support, Bookmans Phoenix is the kind of place that aligns with those values every time you walk through the door.
How to Find Us
Bookmans has multiple locations across Arizona, making it easy to plan a visit no matter where you are in the state. You can find stores in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Flagstaff, each with its own unique character and inventory.
Simply search “Bookmans near me” or visit their official website to get directions and store hours.
Most locations offer generous parking and are easy to spot thanks to their bold, colorful signage. Hours are posted online and typically run through the evening, so you have plenty of time to browse after school or work.