This one star is for the blond, thin woman that was running a Friday special events night a short while back. I don’t know if she is the manager or someone who runs special events or what, but I was working at the counter of the cafe for a while one Friday and I was on the phone dealing with a difficult transaction that took a long time and I was listening a lot to what the other person was saying to me over the phone for what must have been more than an hour. The place was kind of noisy that night and I did not notice people moving from that back salon room to the other side of the store for the event. I had no idea an event was going to happen. No one at the register or bar had told me when I first came in ordering a drink and I had not noticed any sign when I was ordering. If I had known, I would have for sure moved to accommodate their event. I did not, I had been staring at my laptop as the woman over the phone was still talking and then suddenly the blond woman from the cafe walks up to me and very rudely and impatiently addresses me to tell me there is an event and I need to go. Completely rude to me with no compassion or understanding that I has no idea things had changed behind me. I couldn’t get off the phone but I got up immediately and gathered my things to leave as I asked the person on the phone to repeat themselves since your blond staff loudly scolded me while I was still on the phone. They had closed both sides of the doors around the bar and while I was holding my laptop phone and bag, had to struggle to open one door more to let me through to the other side of the bar. I don’t mind being told I have to move if I have not noticed that things have changed behind or around me, but do not treat me with such a disrespectful tone, manner, and attitude from the get go. Maybe that blond lady can have some compassion and better customer service so she gently tells someone to move. I also wouldn’t have minded her loud address, even though it was not necessary, if she had at least used a kind tone. She was rude. I come here from time to time and I like the other staff a lot and appreciate their drinks and products. Please ask that blond woman to show more respect and have better customer service. We are sincere customers who spend our money at your store to support it. Please support us.

We have this scratch off game for couples that gives fun date ideas. We scratched off one this morning that said we had to go to a bookstore and find a childhood book we liked, read them to each other, then buy the books and give them as gifts. We found Changing Hands Bookstore near the restaurant we were going to for lunch. I'm so happy we found this store!! They have so much stuff. We found our books and did our challenge. We're going to donate the books during the holidays. We also found some gifts for our family. I feel like we spent a lot of time in this store. There's so much to look at. There's definitely something for everyone. There's a coffee shop inside and dining area where you can read the books you just bought. Bathrooms are very clean. Parking was a little busy. Also, as a side note, they have the Toasted Owl Cafe next door. I love the Toasted Owl's Flagstaff location. I haven't been to their Phoenix location yet because it's fairly new. They have a lot of vegetarian options.

So I've been on the hunt for the perfect weekend spot to chill, relax, study & read for months now. I've tried many coffee shops, Barnes & Nobles, and libraries, but I was never 100% comfortable. Most of those places that I tried were either too loud, too crowded or just didn't have that chill vibe. Ya know? Luckily I finally walked into this place today and I felt at ease almost immediately. They have super cute & funny socks, coasters, bags, and other little gifts right as you walk in. Plus, It's not too crowded at all, they have a BOOKSTORE, a BAR, nice comfy chairs & tables where you can READ, study, or do some laptop workin'. The people seem really cool! (One lady in the back by the books seemed a bit annoyed after I asked her a question...but other than that this place is so cozy) And I love the indie vibe. This may be my new favorite place to come on the weekends :)

Update: They asked me to email them to fix this issue, and I did, but they never got back to me. Seems like they only responded to my review for show. Sad to leave this review because I loved coming here but they sold me a faulty *NEW* book. The seam was not glued properly, and the pages were coming off clean off the book. It was from my favorite series, too. They made me jump through hoops, some associates said they would return it and then they asked the manager and the manager said no. I would understand if I personally damaged the book, but it was obviously a faulty book from the manufacturer. In the end they made me pay for my new book because I purchased it on sale even though they had the same book on the shelf. I really loved coming here, but I would rather buy from a big chain company that will just take my book back if its faulty from the manufacture.

I came here for a book signing event. The staff was nice and answered my questions. They have books of all different genres and for all different age groups, plus toys, games, decorations, stickers, and much more. They also have a bar inside, which was pretty full the entire time I was there, and there weren't many seating options outside the bar area but it seemed like you could walk around the store with your drink. The only thing I'd say I didn't like was it was a little hard to find. The front of the building is disguised by trees and a covered drive up (like at hotels). That and there is a restaurant in the same building, I had to check numerous times to make sure I was in the right place and I didn't see a sign for the bookstore until I was almost right in front of the door. But overall, I had a great time and I will most likely be back.

Such a beautiful local bookstore for new titles. Their displays are visually engaging and their selection is well-curated. The staff is always kind. If you’re like me and love new bookstores for the browsing experience and display recommendations, then this is the place for you! Albeit this location is smaller than the original location in Tempe, their selection of gift items is still so high quality and unique. I always find little treasures here! There is a book club run by the employees here called Found in Translation. The clearance racks outside the front door are always full of pristine condition books; usually including classics— I’ve even found a few bestsellers! Overall it’s a Phoenix gem and a valuable local business that supports the community it serves.

One of my absolute favorite places to go. They have a variety of different books you can find at your typical bookstore; there are a few that are marked down too. As an educator, one of my favorite spots to explore is the children’s book section- they have a selection that I don’t typically see in the regular book store. The staff is personable and knowledgeable, If you are unable to find what you are looking for they can either direct you to the right spot or offer alternatives. Love the vibe, the atmosphere, and it’s really just a chill place to spend the afternoon if you’re looking to just explore a place. It can get a little crowded but never to the point where I feel it’s packed.

My brother discovered this used bookstore while he was visiting me in Phoenix, and I am so glad he did. On my first visit, I found a used hardcover copy of a Louise Penny book I have been wanting to read. When I returned solo, I found great board books for my grandchildren, a book about working through grief with yoga, some note cards, and a lovely assortment of incense. They also have gifts, games, edible treats, and an enticing selection of books. Two added bonuses - 1) There is a coffee and liquor bar (First Draft) inside the store; 2) Adjacent to the store is a great restaurant called The Southern Rail that specializes in Southern favorites.

Very quaint book store, with a dedicated space and seating to accommodate book signings. I attended a book signing by Alex Aster, with her new release, Nightbane. The book was readily available, in hard cover, at a good price. The signing was wonderful, she spoke about her writing, about her journey to getting published, and her continued success at such a young age. Her social media presence played a huge role in her acceptance among the publishing world. The store did a great job of hosting this event, it was a welcoming atmosphere. I'm looking forward to reading more of Alex's stories.

Such a cute book store! I went here for the first time last Saturday and it was super fun! They have books of all genres and also offer discounted used books. There are lots of super cute and unique gifts and plenty of options for kids books and toys. I really loved the bar here! It is called First Draft book bar. They actually have a book club and you can access information about it on their website. The bar offers wine and beer only. They have a small food menu with charcuterie boards etc. Highly recommend this spot if you're a book worm that loves wine and beer!

There's so much cool stuff here! There's a bar. in. a. Bookstore. The first time I went was for a book signing with Ashley Flowers and her book All Good People Here-amazing book, by the way. If you do not listen to her crime junkie podcast, you need to get on it! There's a restaurant in the same building but it's separate. They have books signed by authors, too, which is cool. There's also a ton of cool knickknacks and snacks. I can get a glass of wine, smudge stick, and incense and a cute mug with my new book in one place, lol.

So this place is probably the best bookseller in the city of phx. I say this because changing hands on the East side is famous, but this location because it is so small has to curate the books they present/sell. As a result, book nerds and readers will have a hard time deciding what to look at, since the quality of books presented to the customer are usually, if not always, top notch. (I'm an English/literature teacher/prof and) I always go there for ideas. Love this place because they curate booklists for me.

Seriously the best book store. I walked in and was home! I spent so much money because I found so many books to add to my TBR. I cannot wait to go again! I wish they had one in the West valley!!! Please come to Surprise!!! I will work every weekend if you do!!!! Everyone was friendly, the vibe was awesome, and SO MANY BOOKS! They have new and used! Cute gifts, even a punch card so when you spend money, you'll save money on future purchases. Honestly, just go. You won't regret it.

We love going to this bookstore. In addition to it just being a bookstore and you getting some pretty good deals on second hand items and also a good selection of new things, there's a fun little things you can get too. Little pins and clothing and kitchen items and bags and socks and different things. Plus there's a bar there... All over a great experience. And we've never had an unhappy employee experience, everyone's always so nice and helpful and just down to earth!

This was our first time out to this location. We usually go to the Tempe store. The employees here were friendly and helpful. The shelves are clearly marked to help you locate items. You can also put a book title in the search on their website to check availability or you can walk to the back of the store and ask an employee to check to see if they have a particular book in stock. They have a children's section, a small coffee shop, and many unique gifts.

If you love books and being able to purchase them this is a better bet than the big box/online stores. Book worms dwell here! The staff is helpful and welcoming. They have a coffee bar aptly called First Draft Book Bar. I’ve attended several author talks and have to say they’re well organized. It’s also a great place to pick up extras like gifts, buttons and stickers. Both Tempe and Phoenix locations have a great vibe! Children welcome and encouraged!

Amazing place, good selection of books and everything literary, I bought a couple of books and a cool Frida Kahlo magnet for my friend(who had recommended the bookstore to me when I was in Phoenix). They’ve a bar and a seating area where you can eat/chill. There are a lot of parking spaces outside where you can park(for free). I spent little over an hour perusing the bookstore. Support independent bookstores, visit this place! I’ll be back here again.

I’ve been shopping at their stores in Tempe and Phoenix for decades, trading books, going to kids’ story hour and buying books and gifts. But it was not easy to get to the special author events at the Tempe store— a 45 minute drive, but we did it.Our family was overjoyed to have the opportunity to contribute to the opening of their store in Phoenix. We have 3 generations now supporting our favorite independent bookstore, Changing Hands!

This was such a cozy atmosphere. There were plenty of little areas to curl up as up explore new books. After checking out First Draft is right next to the register so you can go get a drink while you hang out in the large commons area to read your new purchases. They had a fire on one side. There is an outdoor area for the bar as well, but it was not running when I was there. The place is just a great place to go to get lost in books

What an gem! Just here visiting family and Phoenix and I am SO GLAD I stumbled upon this place. I immediately felt welcomed and at home. First Draft is a great place to work or read over a yummy latté or craft brew, or you can pick up a few books for your collection at Changing Hands. The employees are WITHOUT EXCEPTION friendly and knowledgeable. I am sad to be leaving Phoenix... I wish I could take this place with me back home!

A bookstore and a bar. What could possibly be better than that? This is a unique bookstore with a pretty good selection of titles and unique gifts (though they're really going to have to work on carrying more PoC authors in their science-fiction/fantasy and YA sections. Seriously no Nisi Shawl or Nnedi Okorafor or Tannarive Due). Still, as a huge bibliophile, I could easily spend hours browsing with a glass of wine.

After years of hearing about this place I finally made it. Amazing! You would think all book stores are similar but I loved the way things were organized. I loved the "remarkable reads" and "employee picks" signs. So many trinkets and gifts that I'll definitely return when needing a fun gift for someone. The coffee shop/ bar is large and spacious. These two places together mean I could spend all day here!

Great bookstore. They have a pretty good stock of titles that the revamped B&N isn't going to carry. Depending on the title, they may have used copies for a bit of a discount. The space is laid out nicely, and the staff are pretty knowledgeable and seem helpful. If you don't want to support the evil empire, this is a place to consider. They have beer and wine too, if you feel like you need that as well.

Book lovers will love this store! With plenty of parking, it’s a restaurant, bar, and cafe inside a bookstore with organized sections like fiction, business, and travel. You could easily browse for an hour or so. The largest section is fiction. As a travel writer, I always find a bookstore’s travel section. It’s very small compared to other stores.

THIS IS THE COOLEST BOOKSTORE! Oh my gosh. Went last weekend, coming again tonight. I love it here! Great selection and I also noticed they have a lot more on their website that you can have shipped to the store. I inquired about hosting our bookclub here too and they've got options there as well. So glad to have this place in our community!

Wonderful bookstore with lots of fairly priced books both new and used. I love the selection of knickknacks, notebooks, and stickers as well. They also host some monthly book club meetings and if I wasn't from out of town I would have totally joined. PLUS a bar/coffee shop so you can drink and peruse books as well?? Be still my heart

Love this bookstore! So many unique books, gifts, and other trinkets that you’re not going to find at barns and noble. Very cozy feel that also had a bar inside! If you’re looking for your next book to cozy up to snd read, looking for some informational books or looking for books on Arizona, this is definitely the place to go! …

A neighbor friend of ours retired and we were invited to the party. Changing Hands Bookstore is a great place to do gift shopping for a thoughtful and inspired gifts including great cards and gift wrapping for most occasions. They not only have books but they also have lots of special gift items to choose from. Highly recommend!!

My absolute favorite bookstore! The staff give excellent recommendations. The gift selection is varied and unique. Everyone working there is friendly and upbeat. I love this building as well. I drive from the East Valley just to visit that location. The Tempe location has a bit different atmosphere but is fantastic as well.

This place is comfort, nostalgia, and hope in a place. There's nothing more warm and welcoming than a book store. Nothing takes you back like seeing books you took journeys with. Nothing is more hopeful than the new worlds that await. Add in local goods and a coffee/booze bar. Hello, yes please! Will be back! With friends.

I absolutely loved this place! I thought it would be used books, but all the ones I saw were new, which I prefer. There were all sorts of knickknacks and merchandise to purchase besides books as well. Everyone was super friendly, and it was just a great experience. I will go back if I ever visit Phoenix again!

Very cute bookstore. From the name, I thought it was going to be second-hand books, but that's not the case. I browsed for a while with a friend of mine, then we went to the café and played a card game. There are a couple of other store attached to it or connected by hallways at the back.

Love this bookstore! The employees were friendly and incredibly kind. Great selections of used and new books of all genres that are also well organized. They also have other goods perfect for gifts. If you are a book nerd or know one, I highly recommend checking this spot out!

A really cool bookstore. Almost every book that I browsed was super intriguing. The store is very cool with a very peaceful bookstore vibe. The added bar and coffee shop inside is an extra plus. I thought it’s like Barnes and nobles on steroids. Good prices on books as well.

Love love love this place! The environment is so comfortable and quaint, they have pretty much any type of book you could look for and even awesome little gifts and trinkets. I always come here to feel good and the Cafe/bar has awesome hot chocolate so thank you …

I love changing hands. It's the perfect place to buy thoughtful or fun gifts for kids & adults. Love the puzzle ans games section. I've recently discovered the First Draft Bar & it's a new favorite for hard kombucha. Thanks for being a pillar of the Phoenix community!

A Phoenix staple! I love the original location, too, but live in North Phoenix and feel so lucky to have this cool bookstore AND bar available so close! Whether it's for work, fun, or simply because I need a new book, I love coming here. Some of the best gifts, too.

Beautiful store and great selection. I love the smell of the flowers. I still prefer the one in Chandler because it's got easier parking and takes 40 books at a time. This place only takes 15 at a time for trade in. Still nice people can't speak for the bar though.

Super cute bookstore with a great selection from a diverse set of authors and knowledgeable staff. Also a lovely collection of cute knickknacks and gifts, with a great cafe and bar attached. If you're in the mood for a drink, book, or both stop in!

Urban iconic ambiance with many books, knickknacks, and chocolates! I really love the cafe area which is used for book presentations from time to time.... I only wish it has a little bit of something for conservative folks too....like myself …

I did some Christmas shopping at Changing Hands and had a fun time. Found some unique items by local artists that I will enjoy giving. I like supporting this independent bookseller... they are more than just books! Shop there as often as you can!

One of the coolest stores in town. If having a drink, reading or getting work done and going to poetry nights or meeting authors are your jam then this is your place. Tone of books, peaceful vibes and lots of room for creativity and connection.

The name is a little misleading, I was expecting more used books. While they do have an exchange counter they primarily stock new books. They have a fantastic selection for the size of the store, though it can be a little tricky to navigate

Awesome place. I loved the variety of books and the trinkets and things. Customer service was immaculate. I won't hesitate to recommend this place to anyone which I've done already. And. They have a bar and small lounge area in the back.

This place is great. It has a calm atmosphere and cool to walk around in. It has a little bit of everything one looks for and is spacious. Things can be really pricey though but when you buy something there you’re guaranteed to be happy

It was nice inside but too small, looks like the other half of the store was a Cafe. Bought my son Dog Man book, was double the price we usually get them from at Walmart. I read somewhere there's used here, I guess I read wrong.

Had a great time walking around this bookstore in the morning. I grabbed two tea lattes from the bar and chilled. Unique selection of books both new and used. Great clearance racks in front of the entrance. Love the vibe here.

A great bookstore I wandered into and was pleasantly surprised. Friendly atmosphere and bonus...a place to enjoy your book and some food & drink. Though I didn't imbibe this visit. I'll definitely be back in the future .

Great bookstore located in uptown Phoenix. Purchased two books today. They have a good selection of books& they have a coffee/wine/beer bar as well. Located on the west side if the bookstore they have a nice quite area.

Gently used book store. Great spot to pick up books for kids/grandkids. Lots of fiction, non fiction books for afults all in like new condition. Great location in central Phoenix. Very helpful and friendly staff.

This is a really nice bookstore. I liked the cool environment with a bar and cafe. Great selection of gifts and games along with books. Wish I lived closer so I could take advantage of the trade in program.

Wonderful selection of books for adults and children plus helpful staff. Plus food and drink before or after browsing and buying! Not to mention a fun selection of gifts, regular and quirky. Love the place!

Love the atmosphere of this store. Also enjoy buying books that are near new for discounted costs. There are fun knickknacks to go through, too. Haven't had a drink there yet, but plan to soon.

Gem of a bookstore. So many awesome recommendations from the team that works here - I wanted to take 20 books home but managed to limit myself to 2. Wonderful spot to spend an hour or three.

Absolutely impressed with this bookstore! Such a beautiful and welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff and a wide selection of books and other little knickknacks. I will certainly be back!

One of my favorite bookstores. Great books and great vibes. My fiance and I love how diversity is celebrated here ALL the time (not just during certain special days or months of the year)!

I love the book store!! Their selections are plenty and I love the staff recommendations. They have a cute cafe/bar area and the staff is friendly, easy going, and willing to help.

Absolutely LOVED this place!! There were so many interesting things and books, the layout of the store was really nice, and the coffee bar was a perfect added touch

Lots of choices for books of all ages. A very nice coffee shop inside and great customer service. Handicap accessible with great prices and restrooms available

Locally owned and worth a trip. If you are a bibliophile, stop by and spend time here! Parking is tough. There is a lot across the street with plenty of space.

New favorite spot. It’s a wonderful place to purchase books, other fun goods, and even just window shop. People who work there are incredibly friendly as well!

A little gem in central Phoenix. This bookstore is so cute and cozy! Love grabbing a craft beer and reading, or attending a “Drink and Draw” event here.

My favorite bookstore! Love the spotlight sections, the employee recommendations, the layout - it’s all great! Staff are always friendly and helpful.

The cutest little bookstore with a bar and adorable little touches. If you want to shop for a good book and drink then this is your place. …

What an amazing place. I had a good time checking out the nice selection of books. First Draft had good iced tea with coconut flavor and appetizer.

One of my favorite spaces in Phoenix. Super queer-friendly, great books, gifts, and drinks. I love hanging out here. Such a welcoming place.

Changing Hands is an excellent spot to study, drink coffee or have a bite to eat, and cornucopia of offerings to purchase for gifts.

A fun and unique bookstore. They have a little bit of everything for everyone. Fun to wander and look at all the different items.

They always have the books I want to read and even the ones I didn’t know I was looking for! Check out their events too …

Very nice bookstore, with unique gifts and a nice coffee bar. They feature current and new author readings and book signings.

I found some charming children's books as soon as I entered the store. The variety of books was wonderful.

Love this bookstore. Had all the books I was looking for and I love supporting local businesses.

Love this bookstore! Has everything, a broad selection of books, nice cafe and great gift ideas

The staff was super friendly and went out of their way to recommend books for my daughters!

Very nice place, you can get a cup of coffee here and spend your whole afternoon here.

Very laid back, first time there, we enjoyed ourselves, not your average bookstore

Beautiful store with a fantastic collection of books. Inclusive and comfortable.

Super cute, warm, welcoming bookstore. My kids were in their element.

Nice little book store/breakfast/coffee stop in the city.

Great place for books and coffee. Great ambiance