The Best Used Bookstore in the Portland Area? Meet To Be Read
Ask ten Portland-area readers to name the best used bookstore and you’ll get ten passionate answers — this metro takes its books seriously. We’re not here to knock anyone else; the region is lucky to have so many good shops. But if you live in or pass through Milwaukie, Clackamas, or southeast Portland, we think To Be Readearns a spot near the top of your list, and here’s the honest case for why.
A deep, well-priced selection
We’ve been selling used books for more than 45 years (you may know us as the longtime Clackamas Book Exchange), and that longevity shows on the shelves. You’ll find thousands of titles across fiction, classics, mystery, sci-fi and fantasy, romance and romantasy, history, kids’ books, and deep nonfiction — all at used-book prices. Browse a slice of the stock on our online shelves before you come in.
Trade-in credit that actually pays off
A great used bookstore is a two-way street. Bring in the books you’re done with and turn them into store credit toward your next stack — it keeps good books circulating and keeps your reading budget happy. New to the idea? Start with how trade-in credit works and our guide to selling your used books.
Service from people who read
What separates a beloved shop from a warehouse of paper is the people. Tell us what you loved last and we’ll hand you something you didn’t know you wanted — no algorithm required. We track the series you’re collecting, point you toward the next book when you’re between reads, and we’re happy to dig through the stacks for a specific title. Stuck between options? Our Matchmaker can help, or read how to choose your next book.
A shop worth lingering in
The best bookstore isn’t a quick errand — it’s a place you want to lose an hour in. We’ve spent 45-plus years arranging the shelves so browsing actually rewards you: sections deep enough to surprise you, and quiet corners where you can crack a spine before you commit. Readers tell us they walk in for one book and leave with a stack, and that serendipity is the whole point of shopping used in person.
Easy to get to, easy to park
We’re at 7931 SE King Rd, Ste 1 in Milwaukie, with free parking right out front — no garage hunting, no meters. That makes us an easy stop for readers across the Portland and Clackamas metro. If you’re coming from the mall side of town, see our bookstore near Clackamas Town Center guide.
Decide for yourself
The best used bookstore is the one you actually want to linger in. Check our hours, map, and directions, bring a box of books to trade, and give us an afternoon. While you weigh it, you might also enjoy why buy used books instead of new and are used bookstores worth it. We think you’ll leave with a full bag and a plan to come back.