When the products on offer can be found from many sources, it is the shopping experience and the staff that influence our decisions on where and whether to spend what's left of our disposable income. And after a few years of digesting a spectrum of attitudes and levels of enthusiasm/literary wisdom in District book shops, I had the bad fortune to observe something in Solid State Books that was wholly unacceptable. A young man appeared to be trying to ask several of the staff about questions he had sent by email and hadn't had a response for a few weeks. I gathered he was an author and had been asking for feedback and had some questions about publishing. A large woman came out from the back of the shop and the other staffers suddenly disappeared. The woman threw a book across the counter at him and began angrily accusing him of harassing and threatening staffers. She then said that she did not want 'people like him' in her store. I exchanged glances with several other ladies since we were all in shock at her level of hostility. The young man had been very polite in the store and when confronted, looked as though someone had just slapped him. After thirty years in law enforcement, since something was off and I occasionally refuse to tolerate a mystery, I waited a bit and then exited the store. I tracked the young man down, tapped him on the shoulder and asked what had happened. From what I observed (that day and on others), this particular staffer does not harbor pleasant sentiments toward certain demographic categories. As an older female, I was luckily not subjected to either the fire or ice treatment. Unfortunately for the young author, he seemed to tick all the wrong boxes for her. In any case, her behaviour was inexcusable. Especially when he asked her to please tell him specifically what he had done wrong and she refused. Which brings me to my opening statements: I won't be returning to this location and hope that the two owners consider some effective IDE training for their union shop. BTW, has anyone else noticed the curious similarities in vocabulary and syntax in the majority of the effusive reviews?

I was eager to visit this new store along the H Street NE corridor, but it sadly did not meet my expectations. I believe there are simple things one can do to make a bookstore inviting, the main thing being a friendly staff and books facing outward on the shelves. Sadly, the staff was not present or memorable, so there was not much left to give me positive impressions of the place. Almost no books faced outward on the shelves, making it nearly impossible to see what section we were in, doubly challenging because the signs marking the sections were small or absent. The positives are that the place was spacious and the books on the tables/islands were current and interesting. However, I'm not likely to venture back there unless it's a special event.

Solid state is a pretty solid () local bookstore experience. The staff are super friendly and helpful, welcoming you when you walk in the door. The sections are displays are laid out nicely to find what you need for the most part. My one complaint (and it's minor) is that sometimes they don't have new release books or the widest selection available in the store. They are very willing to order a title for you and will call you when the book arrives, but this adds 2-3 days of waiting for the book and a return visit. Others may be frustrated by this and seek another book seller for the purchase. I'll still keep supporting the store, just wish their stock was better!

Honestly, for the prime real estate this place has, it’s sort of a dud in my opinion. Limited selection of books while they leave a lot of the floor space open. I figure its more of a quiet phantom bar that lets you think you’re not at the bar because there are some books. If you’re not coming in for a drink, this won’t be a staple for book lovers. I’ll be surprised if it lasts. It would be great to have on that street a bookstore just packed with books that you can get lost browsing through. Too much quaint merchandising and not enough of that smell of bound paper. They do seem to have a lot of events, I may just not be their target audience.

A fun independent bookstore right on H St, this bookstore has a great selection and curation of books for all readers. They have your best-sellers as well as books I wouldn't normally come across, so it's great to explore. They also have amazing gifts, cards, puzzles, pins, etc! I was really impressed by their events and the authors they have speak there, including Jane Mount, Glennon Doyle, and Brene Brown !!, especially considering it's one of the youngest bookstores in DC! I loved the layout of the store, including the nook/tunnel for the kid's section. I loved the open, airy feeling of the store as well, and staff were friendly.

Such a beautiful bookstore with great atmosphere. It was quiet, well organized, and clean inside. Staff was kind and helpful, I love that they greet you at the door. They also seem to really enjoy each other which always boosts the energy. The children’s section is so inviting, if I wasn’t wearing a dress I would’ve sat in the nook and read a book myself— can’t wait to bring my son here. The cafe was a nice touch, I enjoyed my wine while reading in one of the lounge chairs. I left with “The Body Keeps The Score,” and will definitely be back for more.

Solid State Books is a respectable, local bookstore that has my heart! I always try to stop in here whenever I’m on H street. The ambience is relaxed and approachable. I love the handwritten reading suggestions on the shelves. Jack recommended a great read through these notecards, and then I had the pleasure of meeting Jack at the register! The whole staff is very kind and makes an effort to welcome every single guest to the store, which I notice and appreciate. They also sell coffee and beer (and a good selection of both!)

I still drive back to my old hood to shop at this store. The staff and book and card selection are completely wonderful. I even found a gift for my hard-to-shop for, sci-fi writer brother-in-law based on a staff recommendation at Solid State. (It’s wonderful being able to buy a gift that another human at a small business personally recommended.) This place is also my primary go-to for the best greeting cards. I wish I still lived within walking distance - this is my happy place!

Absolutely LOVED this indie book store. Lots of genres available and it seems like they have a wine bar for evenings? I loved their children's section and the staff were super fun and full of sass. My fave kind of people. I really enjoyed my pics, and I happened across this gem on INDIE BOOKSTORE DAY in DC. It was the best dy ever. Nissa, at this location is ya girl for all the things. She even made amazing passports with tons of info about all thne indie bookstores in DC. ☺

I know this is my kind of bookstore because almost all the books lining the walls are political and current, and they are concerned with issues that impact my future. It's actually ridiculous how up to date the shelves are. I want this to be my personal library. My former professor gave a book talk here and lots of other distinguished authors are featured here regularly. I love the staff who are friendly and informative. And there's good coffee.

Considering this is a "temporary" space it feels really cozy and has a great selection. Staff aren't pushy at all and allow you to browse in peace, but are ready to help if you do have any questions. Really like the selection here and bought a book on my first visit. Pricing seems reasonable and fair. Running a book store in 2018 probably isn't easy, but I'll do my utmost to support them, you should too! Looking forward to the finished space.

This locally owned bookstore and cafe has been a welcome addition to the bustling H street corridor. In addition to a fantastic selection of books, it also boasts coffee and beer/wine. Solid state is also a regular host for book talks and other events. My wife and son enjoy their children’s events too, and we visit this store frequently for new selections. My favorite bookstore in DC and I have purchased and read many books from this place.

This is the most unique bookstore in the city founded by long-time residents of DC as well as veterans of the publishing industry. There is an excellent selection of books, and if you like, there is seating available to sit, relax and read all while enjoying the afternoon. You can also buy a beer and sit and chill out even more. Great book selection, excellent customer service, and seating space to take a load off and enjoy the afternoon.

Went here for cards and they were pretty overpriced but you know, happy to support local bookstores. Anyway the backs of the cards had kind of preachy messages which, again, happy to pay to support a cause but they don't belong on a thank you or condolence note. Went to return them and it was A Whole Thing and in the end I never got the funds and had to go to my cc company. Unfortunately this place is just way more work than is worth

Love love love this book store! It is locally owned and the staff are lovely and helpful. There is a small cafe inside for coffees and drinks while you shop or read. It’s a great spot to buy a book and comfy to sit and work or read in. There is also a great children’s section with children’s books, activities, and seating. They also do online orders and donate a portion of their proceeds. Can’t recommend enough!

Fantastic store and a fixture in the neighborhood. Selection is great, I think somewhat less prone to DC bookstores' innate skew towards contemporary politics/public affairs, in a good way. Checking inventory online is easy, and they're very helpful over the phone. Ordering for pickup under reopening restrictions is a breeze. Looking forward to a full reopening when they resume events and readings.

If you celebrate Kamala Harris, still mourn Justice Ginsburg, or consider the 1619 Project serious required reading, consider this place 5 stars! If you are looking for anything positive about Donald Trump, consider this place 0 stars. If you appreciate a book store with diverse points of view and no agenda, maybe some amount of stars in the middle or fewer. Some of the puzzles are nice.

Love this bookstore! They have SUCH a wide selection on the shelves, and they have several tables to feature new/popular books. All the booksellers are super knowledgeable and I see them helping folks find books all the time. They have a really nice Science section, maybe one of the best among DC bookstores. Finally, they also have really nice workspace where I go to study or work often.

A nice book store on H St NE conveniently located near the Whole Foods. My wife and I popped in near closing on a friday night. We found a great mix of classics and modern sub genre literature which was clearly thoughtfully selected and displayed. The staff was very welcome and had great input on the titles my wife selected. We're definitely coming back!

A great bookstore with a varied selection that also serves drinks. I highly recommend this wonderful little spot for everything from general browsing to making actual book purchases. The seating is limited and the books are organised in a little confusing way, but the staff were all extremely friendly and really make this place feel nice to be in.

Support your local book store, especially ones with beer, coffee, and social events. It also has great stationary, an amazing children's section, and friendly knowledgeable staff. No espresso, limited power outlets, but it does have wifi. Check out their book clubs! Whoever did their fancy plywood interior design deserves some credit as well.

Knowledgeable staff, great selection of books, cards, notebooks and bookish swag. Not a huge selection, but they're up on what's sophisticated as well as what's popular. Seating and cafe area. Lots of laptop working. Great kids play and reading adventure area. Something for everyone who loves books. Curated selection of cards and gifts.

Here at 8:48 and the store is closed. This map says until 9 and the store window says 9, but they are closed and if you call them that's when you learn they work until 8 :) Was running with all I had to grab a book I wanted for the roadtrip tmr. Very upset. Otherwise it's an amazing store, if you are in the neighborhood, go there!

A great bookstore on H Street - they have a wide, carefully chosen selection - i.e., not just the 25 most popular books on a topic, but a wide range to cover different subject matters. Staff was friendly and looking to be helpful. They also had a good mix of other items such as t-shirts and mugs. Flat out a great bookstore.

I stopped in for some calm while my family visited someone in the hospital (2 visitor max) I was warmly welcomed, offered cream for the nitro I purchased and accommodated unconditionally. There’s a children section with very happy children. They have a great selection and they’re very inclusive. I’d happily come here again.

I just moved a couple blocks away and decided to pop in yesterday. The vibe is small yet cozy, and the store has a large variety of genres to choose from. Plus, they serve coffee and have plenty of seating. What’s not to love? Cant wait to sign up for one of their book clubs this month!

Bookstore has a great atmosphere and lots of options, including recently released popular books. Staff was friendly. They also have a spot where you can sit down and have a drink. It’s also close to the X2 bus stop which means you can easily get to it from the gallery place metro stop.

The shop is warm, open, and staff are inviting. I want to love solid state, but it feels like it loses anyone who really wants to buy books. The labeling wasn’t great (visibility, organization) and the selection of books didn’t feel nearly as great (size and selection) as other stores.

A friendly and hip bookstore with a lot of great titles for everyone’s interest. Not one of the mega stores, but just enough to pique anyone’s interest. The coffee is good, the food is good, and it’s a nice place to hang out and relax and read your new purchase over an iced latte.

Really nice, seamless experience! I called and placed my order over the phone and picked it up a few minutes later. The curbside experience was super easy. The staff is really nice and it seems like they have a pretty great selection of books and other items!

Excellent store with an impressively curated selection of non fiction books that another book store wouldn’t offer. My only suggestion would be to have clearer signs for the different book sections. Otherwise, this place is great and I will be returning!

wonderful environment to sit and have a beverage and nibble while reading, or slowly peruse great selections until you're ready to make a purchase. a cozy kids corner makes this spot family friendlier. great staff, friendly, helpful and courteous!

Very clean and well thought out. I appreciated the wide variety of offerings including the expansive children's section. I appreciated the ambiance of the space, this it did feel a bit crowded at times with the number of children present.

Yay!!! It's great to have another independent book store, especially with this being an endangered industry. Great selection of books, nice kids corner. Easy going vibes with a pleasant and helpful staff! I was really impressed.

The experience in this place used to be outstanding but now it has changed drastically. Pride is written all over this place and it is very unsettling especially with staff watching your every move or maybe it was just me idk.

Great bookstore to pick up Dogman books obviously. All around cool place. They have a wide variety of topics and books covered here and it's close to a few coffee shops so you can enjoy a good read and a cup of coffee.

Lovely book store in downtown DC. Cool space that has regular readings, good coffee, fun wine and beer options. The reading we were at was super kid friendly, and the bookstore has a large section dedicated to them.

Really awesome and cute book store! I had been meaning to check this place out for a while and am glad I finally did. They had a very good selection of fiction and non- fiction, and a really nice kids section too.

SUCH A COOL PLACE! The kid section is another level! Our little one didn’t want to leave! We will definitely be back. Also bought one of the coolest books I’ve ever seen - a “photicular” book. Such a great spot!

Adorable book store with so many options! They also serve beer and coffee and have a couple seats at the window. The kids section was really cute! They also have some little trinkets and gifts like items to buy.

This bookstore is small but cozy. I love that you can order beer and wine and they let you walk around and browse the books while you finish your drinks. A lot of charm and a decent selection of drinks.

So happy to have found this bookstore! The staff are so kind and helpful. The book inventory is also great! The perfect mix of popular and should be popular- I always find something new to read

Very nice clerks. Good selection of books. They have a little snack bar that also has beer and wine. The H Street corridor is an up and coming area. Always good to support indie bookstores!

We came in about 20 minutes before closing and the staff was pleasant and helpful. Huge selection of books and merchandise. We all were pleased with our book haul.

the staff are really nice and they have a lot of great selections lots of queer related readings that jump out which is very nice to see it's a nice atmosphere

Charming and well stocked neighborhood book store. In addition to a small cafe inside, there is a good kids area with toys and seating for little ones.

A true H street staple! Favorite bookstore in DC. Such a warm & cozy atmosphere. They also serve coffee & have a happy hour. Solid state forever!

Nissa was incredibly welcoming and helpful. We picked out a picture book for a baby shower and Nissa got me on the order list for my next read!

It’s a good local Bookstore. Too few of these left. Knocking off one star because the staff are grinchey and their range of books is limited.

Such a cool store! Easy walk from Union Station, great neighborhood and vibe, awesome selection. My family and I loved it, and will be back.

Impressive bookstore! I highly recommend stopping in and checking it out. My kids loved the children's corner as well. Great vibe!

One of my favorite bookstores! They offer so many fun book clubs! And it’s dog friendly, so I can stop by when I’m walking my dog.

Rude... please don't waste your time go to Barnes and Noble where you can use the bathroom and go back to browsing books

Great selection, staff, and atmosphere. I ordered several books in from them and never had any issues. Thank you guys!

This place is so cute! There were many different genres available too. They serve coffee and some drinks here as well.

Great local bookstore. Pretty big, nice kids area. Good selection. Bought two activity books for my kids here.

This bookstore has been a my list to visit. It is a great space, areas to socialize. Good selection of books.

The staff here is so nice. I am almost always able to find what I am looking for. They also allow dogs!

Beautiful local bookstore. Very welcoming staff. I was happy to have happened upon it after lunch.

Great local bookstore complete with bar, coffee shop, story time (for kids), and local book clubs

Such a cool and lovely neighborhood spot; show them some love and support a cool small business!

Love all the staff. Great selection of books. Always have activities. Very good atmosphere.

I wanted a good read, an was was told that this book was it. So I decided to get it …

Huge space, friendly and book-knowledgeable owners. Indie bookstore always knows best!

You have the best and most polite workers in your store! Jack is really terrific!

Loved this bookstore. Covid conscious. Inclusive. Amazing titles and displays.

Cute bookstore with selection of cold beverages and I think coffee

Ahhh the feeling of a great community book store! Love this place.

Nothing really special. Like a smaller Barnes and Noble

Love this independent bookstore. It’s its own person