I love this bookstore. It is so much better than going into a commercialized chain store. The staff is friendly and helpful. They have a great selection. They have a HUGE literary calendar and are always having special visitors and readings. I really enjoy this bookstore...it is worth the drive out to the city!

... but not enough to make me want to battle central west end parking to get there. They definately have browsing appeal, with hip new releases and old favorites on the shelves. They also have a good used book secion in the basement. However, I find this store doesn't call me back for more. I like my bookstores just a little... cozier, Maybe its a neighborhood thing.

The first time I went to LBB, it was with a friend to see an author booksigning. I couldn't believe the number of authors they had on their calendar for booksignings! I picked up one of their calendars & signed up for their email newsletter immediately.

The second time I went to LBB, it was during HarryPalooza (the night the 6th Harry Potter book was released). They did an outstanding job of coordinating the night's events: trivia contests, raffles, and more. When the 5th book was released, I went to a different book store - and was there until 3:00 in the morning! They were so unorganized and unhelpful. LBB, on the other hand, hand everything planned out ahead of time. I had the book in my hand by 12:10! I will definitely go back to them when the 7th book is released!

They also were able to have an author sign a book for me when I was unable to atted the signing. How nice was that? They could have said - tough luck!

My son loves their cat the best. :) Overall, a great store!

Left Bank Books caters to a more cerebral type of book reader. Here you won't find the family atmosphere like other mega book stores that have large sections for every family member. What you will find at Left Bank Books is an educated staff and occasional speaker/author on hand for a book signing. Great place.

I've been coming to this bookstore since high school, when I used to spend hours in the basement where the used books are. Upstairs you'll find all the latest bestsellers as well as staff picks and upcoming book signings (big name writers come through, like David Sedaris). The staff is knowlegeable and friendly. Left Bank Books is a rare jewel of a bookstore in today's world of Borders and B&Ns.