Community first
We're a neighborhood shop. Every face we see, every book that comes in, we treat like family.
WE DO NOT BUY FOR CASH
Our Story
45 Years of Stories
A neighborhood story written one book at a time.
Three small chapters that brought us to today.
Nestled in the heart of Milwaukie, Oregon, Clackamas Book Exchange has been a beloved community treasure for nearly five decades. Since 1981, book lovers of all ages have wandered through our shelves, discovering hidden gems, trading beloved reads, and building connections over shared stories.
On June 7, 2024, a new chapter began. With fresh eyes and deep respect for the store's rich history, our new owners stepped in — bringing renewed energy, modern touches, and the same heartfelt commitment to this community.
In 2026, we'll proudly unveil our new identity: To Be Read (TBR) — a name that captures the magic of that towering, exciting stack of books always waiting on your nightstand.
- ~1981
It begins
Clackamas Book Exchange opens its doors and quickly becomes a local haven for readers.
- 1981 – today
A beloved chapter
Generations of readers wander our stacks, swap stories, and turn the shop into a community living room.
- June 7, 2024
New chapter
New owners step in with fresh energy and deep respect for everything that made the shop special.
- 2026
Hello, TBR
Same store, same heart — we proudly become To Be Read (TBR) and keep the next 45 years going.
What guides us
The shelves are full. So are our values.
Books over algorithms
Our staff actually reads. We'd rather hand you the right book than chase trending titles.
Quietly modern
Same charm, smoother experience — fresh signage, easier trades, friendlier hours.
Pay it forward
Trade credit means books keep circulating in the community, at prices anyone can afford.
Sneak peek
Walk the shelves before you arrive
Nine rooms' worth of finds — kids' picture books, YA, adult fiction, Dr. Seuss corner, and more.
The kids' room — floor to ceiling
Sunny window display
Dr. Seuss corner
Young adult wall
Middle-grade adventures
Adult fiction — front of store
Chapter book wall
New picture books
Adventure & fantasy
When we took the keys in June 2024, the first thing customers told us was “please don't change the soul of this place.” We listened. We're refreshing the edges, but the heart — the slow Saturday browses, the staff picks, the trade-ins that keep books circling the neighborhood — that stays exactly the same.
— The owners, To Be Read