It may seem like you’re reading all day, between emails, social media postings, and text messages, but when was the last time you got lost in a good book? Whether it’s a romantic novel or a historical mystery that keeps you riveted to the page for hours, it’s probably time for a new book. So explore these eight local bookstores around Gilbert, Arizona.

MVMNT Christian Stores

A stuffed horse sits on a bookshelf at a bookstore in Gilbert, Arizona

“BookStore Surprise” licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 via Flickr by missfilly

MVMNT is one of Gilbert’s newest, independent, family-owned Christian bookstores. Located on North Cooper Road, it’s a wonderful place to find all your faith-based supplies, like a new family bible, a WOW album, a Beth Moore study guide, or your child’s first communion supplies.

Times are changing in the Valley, and it’s harder to find a quality shop for your specific needs. Don’t head online. The internet shopping experience doesn’t come with the quality advice and recommendations that you know you can trust here. They even carry titles just for your school-aged kids, like “A Kid’s Guide To The Armor of God” by the respected evangelical leader and pastor Tony Evans.

Wellspring Books and Metaphysical Center

This self-help bookstore on North Gilbert Road is the place to go for personal care reading material, spiritual titles, crystals, tarot cards, and psychic consults. In addition, Wellspring Books and Metaphysical Center provides you and your family with all your alternative medicine and meditation needs. 

Whether you’re searching for a hard-bound gift for someone special or an artifact for your personal collection, chances are you’ll find it here. Wellspring Books also offers a variety of services and classes during the week and on weekends. Join in and reap the benefits of:

  • Meditation.
  • Tai chi.
  • Reiki (levels one through four).
  • Full moon ceremony.
  • Tarot reading.
  • Spiritual awakening.
  • Spiritual response therapy.
  • Mediumship.

Bookman’s Entertainment Exchange

Located on South Country Club Drive, Bookman’s is the place to go for variety. You’ll find thousands of titles stocked on their shelves, all at terrific prices, including books, movies, and music. This place is unique as it gets. Its first shop dates back 40 years and now features six Arizona locations.

This media/book store touts a popular exchange program. You can buy, sell, and swap books, CDs, games, magazines, movies, or anything you find under Bookman’s roof. This shop also hosts a variety of events, like the Poefest Student Writing Competition or a musical instrument party. Your kindergartner can pick up a few simple chords and learn how to play a song or two at this jamboree.

Changing Hands Bookstore

Changing Hands Bookstore is an East Valley institution. Its been around forever, buying and selling used books and offering regular author readings. It hosts tons of events from its nearby Tempe location on South McClintock Drive. It also features a fun selection of digital audiobooks, unique gifts items, and stationery, plus they have a stamp card that you can use to earn up to $10 off a purchase.

Kids will love this shop’s summer reading bingo game. They can read their favorite books from the list, fill in squares on the board, and win prizes like a $50 book bundle. This awesome book shop connects with the Wildflower Bakery and Cafe next door, so you can enjoy a cup of tea and a scone while you browse back covers.

Book Gallery

Head up to West Main Street in nearby Mesa and check out Book Gallery. Its comfortable ambiance, modern oak bookcases, antique bookends, vintage collectibles, and lots of room to roam make it a must-stop. You’re going to love browsing their great selection of used books, and the diversity is incredible. The exceptionally knowledgeable staff is happy to help you locate sought-after titles. These folks are true book enthusiasts, not just a friendly face behind the counter.

Chandler-Gilbert Williams Campus Bookstore

Whether you have a high school senior heading off to college or you’re taking a few night classes yourself, check out Chandler-Gilbert Williams Campus Bookstore on East Tahoe Avenue in Mesa. You don’t have to be an active student to enjoy the perks at this store, so head on over.

This community college bookstore features textbooks, backpacks, Apple computers, school supplies, branded gear, and gifts. It’s also a peaceful place to study or check your email on a busy afternoon. The staff is warm and welcoming and eager to support you or your child’s educational journey.

Anticus

Located on North Scottsdale Road, Anticus is one of our favorite places to find books. This community-focused, independent bookstore and art gallery is a true collector’s paradise. In addition to shelves of interesting titles, Anticus offers jewelry brands like Evoceteur, plus fine art pieces by outstanding creatives like Dale Terbush, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and furniture.

The children’s section touts an entertaining seating area with books cataloged by grade level. Stop by with the kiddos during a special themed day, such as Dr. Seuss. The staff dresses in costume for the event and serves refreshments. The whole family can enjoy reading the author’s classic after you explore the exhibit. There’s also a book club that meets monthly, and right now, you can special order a book and save 25%.

The Poisoned Pen Bookstore

The Poisoned Pen on North Goldwater Boulevard caters to those of us who love a good mystery. However, don’t let that dissuade you from stopping in if you’re looking for something else, like an excellent sci-fi first edition or a UK import.

If you like to attend book signings and different writing events, keep an eye on their events calendar. The Poisoned Pen hosts more than 200 awesome gatherings a year and is said to be Arizona’s ground zero for fans of author Diana Gabaldon’s books.Well, that closes the book on this guide by Crème de la Crème of Gilbert, Arizona. So what are you waiting for? Explore these eight outstanding local bookstores today. What do you think of our picks? Did we miss your family’s favorite, kid-friendly shop? Let us know so we can share your positive experiences with other East Valley parents.