West Side Books Annex

West Side Books is my favorite place in Denver to spend a few hours browsing, with a great selection of used books on every topic I can think of, as well as tons of fiction. Lois and the rest of the staff know something about just about everything, and they're great fun. I always laugh and I always get great books without spending much. I order my new books there, too, rather than from the sites that have wiped out most local bookstores. West Side Books survives through sheer stubborn excellence, character, and good taste, and we are grateful. Good food and coffee nearby. They just did a new website with book searching and things like that, and they opened up a whole new wing last year, where they have live music, lectures, and things like that. And more space for books. I've been hanging around Denver's used bookstores for decades, and this is the one I return to most. more

Beware--this shop can become addictive! It is crammed to the rafters with used books of every sort. I can easily forget time as I poke through all their offerings, but that is okay, for you will never be rushed by their staff. Their variety is impressive--these are not simply old tattered copies of paperback books. Some of these books are really OLD. All of them are fascinating. Their art books are especially so. They have so many original copies of books that I read as a kid that I felt like I was back in my parent's basement. Little Women, Nancy Drew, the Bobbsey Twins. It's a nostalgic trip for sure and a great place to bring your kids to get them invested in reading. There's a great section on Denver and Colorado history as well. Their staff is wonderful and quick to offer help if you need it--just as quick to leave you be if you prefer it! more