Eureka Books - Eureka, CA

Eureka Books, Eureka, CA

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Booksellers, owners, and managers are so different than people in other businesses and I’m fortunate to see this in many bookstores I visit.  I observed the perfect example of this while I was in Eureka Books.  I overheard Mel, one of the booksellers, on the phone with a customer who was obviously looking for a specific book.  Toward the end of the conversation, Mel suggested the caller try finding the book at Booklegger, another bookstore on THE SAME BLOCK as Eureka Books.  WHAAT?  Yes, this is how many in the bookstore business roll, cooperating with each other and I think this helps EVERYONE.

I’ve been following Eureka Books for some time and have been impressed by the many pictures of the store’s interior.  I was not disappointed and was thrilled to see it in person.  A very cool, two-level space with a wrap around balcony make this store extremely attractive.  They’ve been in business for 37 years, 35 of those in this perfect location in the Old Town district of Eureka.  Owner Solomon E. is the 3rd generation of ownership and took it over in 2022.  This is a very popular tourist destination and Solomon said that’s a big part of the customer base.  Best of all for Eureka Books, the store is not strapped with an unreasonable lease because Solomon owns the building and lives upstairs.  

The bookstore carries new and used books, all shelved together and all on a data base.  Customers who bring books in can receive cash or store credit in exchange.  But if you’re a regular take the store credit for a better deal.  You also have the option of making your purchase online.  The sidelines were numerous and varied and Solomon told me the 3-D puzzles have sold well as have the stickers (of course).  Additionally, I thought they had a good variety of attractive journals, including leather bound, greeting cards, Eureka Books swag, pencils and pens, reading lights, and Tarot cards to name a few.

Best of all are the super people you'll meet here.  Solomon, and booksellers Mel and Stephanie are as nice and knowledgeable as any along my journey.  Heck, Mel is a talented bookseller who gave me MANY ideas and helped me settle on the right one.  And THIS, dear readers, is why you go to an independent bookstore in person.  To enjoy the experience and interactions with the terrific and friendly people who know their stuff.  Well done Eureka Books.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

CURRENLY READING:  The Terminal List, Jack Carr.  

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  The White Umbrella, Brian Sewell.  Slaughter House Five, Kurt Vonnegut.  I Could Pee On This: and Other Poems by Cats, Francesco Marciuliano.  

 

View of the street the bookstore is on in the Old Town district of Eureka. 

Another view of the storefront. 

Can Zoltar recommend a book?  Is he on the staff?

I always enjoy visiting bookstores in historical buildings. 

Start your shopping before entering the store. 

Remember how long this book was on the best-seller list?  I never thought I'd see the day when I'd see it on a bargain book rack. 

I love this view looking into the store from the front entrance. 

Beautiful new novel display just inside the front door.  

View looking to the right from the front entrance.  Go this way to climb the stairway to the upper level. 

Looking to the left from the front entrance. 

Lots of travel guides and maps to help any tourist.  Directly to the left after entering. 

Unique light fixture and overview looking to the upper level. 

Just a few of the books by local authors and of local interest. 

I have never seen this genre sign anywhere and I love it!

Look for this in the OMG/LOL section. 

Numerous sidelines found here and throughout the store.

Find this table for budget books. 

A few of the greeting cards offered. 

Just some of the stickers available. 

I always enjoy seeing the staff picks. 

An example of a 3-D puzzle, many of which are selling well. 

Many varieties of journals. 

An overview of the back of the store, main floor. 

Head to this area with the kids in the back left corner of the main floor. 

Perfect seats for little readers. 

View from the top of the stairway at the upstairs level. 

Looking across to the other balcony. 

Overview of the large main room on the 2nd floor. 

One of the long book aisles, upstairs. 

One of the long balconies of books. 

Overview of the store looking from the 2nd floor toward the front entrance. 

With Solomon on the right, the fine owner at Eureka Books.  Thanks for a great visit.