Second Glance Books is a terrific used bookstore and a real gem in a city that prides itself on independent bookstores. Owner Rachelle couldn’t be friendlier and is always available to give recommendations, engage in some bookish chit chat, or just leave you alone to browse.
She has an excellent selection of books, all clean and neatly organized. I go in mostly looking for literary fiction and classics, and never go away empty handed. Rachelle keeps a good mix of popular literature – like the latest Orange Prize winner – and out-of-print, older novels that show up on the “must read” lists I’m working on.
She also keeps an eclectic and enticing collection of non-fiction books. I once found a pop-up book of dinosaurs and once, even better, a hand printed book of seasonal cocktail recipes with a hand painted cover.
Second Glance is not big enough to be a “city of books,” but it is a charming village. If you live in Portland or come for a visit, go there and shop like a local.
Second Glance Books
4500 NE Sandy Blvd.
Portland, OR 97213
sgbooks@qwestoffice.net
503.249.0344
