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Downtown Book & Sound in Salinas

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4.7 (118)

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Downtown Book & Sound is the ultimate destination for book lovers and music enthusiasts in Salinas, CA. Located at 213 Main St, our Book store offers a vast collection of new and used books, including fiction, non-fiction, biographies, and more. Whether you're looking for a bestseller or a rare find, our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you discover your next great read. But that's not all - we're also a Record store! Browse our extensive selection of new and vintage vinyl records, CDs, and cassette tapes. From classic rock to jazz, hip-hop, and everything in between, our music collection has something for every taste. At Downtown Book & Sound, we're passionate about fostering a sense of community among our customers. That's why we host regular book clubs, author readings, and live music events. Join us for a unique shopping experience that combines the joy of reading and music in one convenient location.

Downtown Book & Sound Review Summary

The summary was generated by AI, based on reviews.

Downtown Book & Sound offers a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse selection of books and vinyl records. Customers appreciate the friendly staff, cozy environment, and unique local finds. The store is well-organized, making browsing enjoyable for all ages. Special events and knowledgeable recommendations add to the charm, making it a favorite spot for book and music lovers alike. Many visitors highlight the excellent customer service and the inviting space for discovering new favorites.

Review Rating Chart

Google: 4.8/5

Yelp: 4.5/5

Facebook: 4.9/5

Tripadvisor: 4.7/5

Bookshop.org: 4.6/5

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Reviews & Ratings

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4.7

(118 Reviews)

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Grace Lin -Google user

2 years ago

the owner was so enthusiastic to guide us around which wroth a five stars!!

display -Google user

6 months ago

Stopped by on a roadtrip home and got a book for my boyfriend here, I’ll reply with his review when he finishes the book. The owners were helpful, friendly, and happy to answer my questions. They handed out some flower bombs to plant some native...Read More

Jonathan Henthorn -Google user

3 years ago

One of the best organized used book stores I've been in. The staff was very friendly and helpful.

Chris Metzler -Google user

a year ago

Wherever in the world I find myself if I see a bookstore I will stop and check it out. When I stumbled upon Downtown Book & Sound a few years ago I quickly fell in love. It's a winner based on it being...Read More

Kaelyn Chapman -Google user

2 months ago

What a lovely book store! Organized so well. I was so happy to stumble across this gem in newly revived Old Town Salinas. I will definitely be back. So fun to browse, and it was nice to get a tour of the lay of the...Read More

Jack Holmgren -Google user

2 months ago

This bookstore is fabulous! Live music, local history, Marilyn Monroe, John Steinbeck, and soooo many great books, new and gently read! You should definitely go there!!!

Vincent Loforti -Google user

11 months ago

Can't stress enough the importance of supporting stores like this. Quintessential, independent book store with great vinyl for you audiophiles. The owner is wonderfully helpful and customer service is fantastic. Love this place!!!

Mary Rose Kent -Google user

a year ago

An independent bookstore in downtown Salinas. The staff are happy to give you all the time in the world, but they’re generally too busy for that. It’s a great place. There are seats so that you can check out if you want...Read More

Edith Frederick -Google user

a year ago

So grateful to local friendly Trish and Dan always ready to help me find the special books I seek. Welcoming to have local authors share their latest works as well. Great collection to spend relaxing time exploring.

Peg Albrets -Google user

11 months ago

Lovely new and used bookstore on the main drag in downtown Salinas. Wide selection and friendly vibe. The owner gave us a brief tour from the doorway of the fortune buildings that featured in Steinbeck’s novels.

Alejandro Reggeti -Google user

2 years ago

I love grabbing a new read as often as possible so I'm no stranger to hitting the bookstore, and I have to hand it to this book shop for being one of the best ones I've been to in the world. The staff and owners...Read More

Eddie Fisher -Google user

2 years ago

Great selection of books, was happy to be able to purchase my first copy of a Steinbeck novel from his home town. Pleasantly surprised by the range of foreign language materials, was able to purchase a copy of Fahrenheit 451 in french which I haven't...Read More

Jesus Anguiano -Google user

2 years ago

Went there for the first time looking for manga, they had a decent sized shelf for it, also was lucky to come across Dan he is a great guy. They will also order books for you if they don't have em. Highly recommend it great...Read More

JM Enjuto -Google user

a year ago

I love bookstores. Every time I’m in Salinas visiting family I always stop at Downtown Book & Sound. Tons of books, new and used to choose from and the service is friendly and welcoming.

Alfredo Luduena -Google user

Edited a year ago

Fantastic store with so many books on different editions. You can have also stories and history about john steinbeck. Fantastic service. Hope to come back.

Jennifer Ibarra -Google user

a year ago

Such a great store with incredible service. If you’re lucky, the owner will treat you to a song or two on his guitar while you shop.

Mariel Valencia -Google user

a year ago

Outstanding staff. They have a friendly environment. They have a variety of books to choose from. We were even lucky enough to have a book read to us. Go support a local business.

Norma -Google user

6 years ago

Always enjoyed this store, but finally got to meet the owners who are the nicest people. Trisha is so welcoming and fun! After playing the ring toss game we had a nice conversation and met Mark, Dan, and Jay who are super nice and funny....Read More

Ilis Abota -Google user

4 years ago

nice store … cute dog runs around sometimes and all the workers are friendly and knowledgeable. plenty of airflow/ventilation as they keep back door open so that was appreciated. they’ll order books for you if they don’t have them in stock :) they also have...Read More

Howard B -Google user

2 years ago

Always a great place to shop, from rare to contemporary books, paperback and hardcover. You name it; if you like too read, you go there. ...or for gifts. Thanks to the owners for having this great store

Ana -Google user

4 years ago

Awesome bookstore! welcomed the minute i came in! saw the manga selection and was not disappointed! they had titles like demon slayer, Naruto, attack on titan, black butler, and more! i was in search of my hero academia but they sadly didn’t have it yet....Read More

Robert Stephenson -Google user

Edited 3 weeks ago

Down Town Book & Sound is the go-to place for books and sound recordings anywhere. Trish and Dan offer superior service to the community. Their broad selection of books on every subject is stellar. From Manga books to magazines, DTB&S has what you want;...Read More

Abby -Google user

5 years ago

What a wonderful place!! We stopped in to get a book, and ended up chatting with the staff for awhile. She was a wonderful person, very friendly and helpful. We will most definitely be back for more books and conversation. Highly recommend!

Patricia Joselyn -Google user

a year ago

I love this small business! I like a small bookstore with nooks and used books as well as new books. The staff is professional and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this bookstore!

Steven Carson -Google user

6 years ago

This small but, HUGE store has pretty much EVERY John Steinbeck pieces ever done, ie.... Hard, Soft, or Vinyl cover books, movies, etc. NICE Best-Sellers section! Also, WARD gets an honorable mention for GREAT Customer Service!!!! Thank You Brother Ward.

Carolyn Silacci -Google user

5 years ago

Bookstores are such a rarity these days. They have new releases as well a a great selection of used books. Visit, service is friendly and atmosphere is welcoming.. just ignore the mannequin , she's a little odd.

Brian H. -Google user

2 years ago

The records and media are housed separately in a building across the street from the bookstore. There are thousands of records and a nice selection. Well worth checking out! Great customer service as well.

Richard Bernhardt -Google user

4 years ago

This is a really nice and friendly book store. We bought a bunch of books. Lots of choices new and used. You can look for hours. Lots of treasures. Give this gem a visit. You will really be glad you did.

jen ghastin -Google user

a year ago

Friendly staff and gems hidden on the shelves both new and used! Great vibes!! A fun to get lost in!

Michelle Baker -Google user

6 years ago

A very beautiful open floor bookstore with a very cozy charm that makes you want to stay and read on the spot. Ready to assist you with any questions you have and any books you need. If they do not have it they will order...Read More

Features

From the business

Identifies as Indigenous-owned

Identifies as women-owned

Small business

Service options

Curbside pickup

Delivery

In-store pickup

In-store shopping

Same-day delivery

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible elevator

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Wheelchair accessible restroom

Wheelchair accessible seating

Amenities

Wi-Fi

Crowd

LGBTQ+ friendly

Transgender safespace

Planning

Quick visit

Payments

Checks

Credit cards

Debit cards

NFC mobile payments

Other

LGBTQ+ friendly

Identifies as women-owned

Identifies as Indigenous-owned

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