Recycle Bookstore

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Open 11:00 AM - 08:00 PM See Hours
Local 1066 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126, United States Local +1 4082-866-275
Wheree.com
Recycle Bookstore has been established as a cherished San Jose institution since its inception in 1967 by founders Pat and Joan Hayes. This iconic bookstore embarked on its journey on S. First St., subsequently relocated to E. San Fernando St., and then anchored itself on E. Santa Clara St. for over two decades. In October of 1998, the baton was passed to Eric and Cynthia Johnson, who relocated Recycle Bookstore to its current residence in The Alameda historic district. The year 2004 witnessed the opening of a second branch in Downtown Campbell. Following the celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2017, the San Jose location proudly unveiled a significant expansion in December of 2019, which saw the store's floor plan increase by nearly one-third.

Amenities and More


  • Delivery
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • In-store shopping
  • In-store pick-up
  • Quick visit
  • Small business
  • Buys used goods

Bestselling Books at Recycle Bookstore

Comics have been recognized as the top-selling genre within Recycle Bookstore, enticing a broad spectrum of readers with their graphic allure and narrative diversity. These vibrantly illustrated narratives command a significant presence, consistently attracting a dedicated clientele. The comics genre stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and dynamic nature of the bookstore's ever-evolving inventory.

Immersive Photos Experience

An exploration through photos has been curated to offer a virtual tour of Recycle Bookstore's spacious interior, where the books are arranged with meticulous care. These images capture the essence of Recyle Bookstore's inviting atmosphere, showcasing the wide aisles that lead visitors on a journey through literary worlds. The organized displays, highlighted in these photographs, invite patrons to browse and discover the treasures that line the shelves of this beloved bookstore.

Criteria for Book Selection

The types of books accepted are determined by their potential to sell. It cannot be generalized that fiction books are always a good choice, as the demand varies by author. A consistent search is conducted for current and semi-current hot titles, along with popular children's and young adult books in good condition.

Beloved Cats at Recycle Bookstore

The presence of cherished feline companions is proudly boasted. Ender and Emma, the venerable San Jose store cats, have been embraced as full-time residents. At approximately 14 years of age, these feline fixtures were adopted together and have since become iconic figures within the store. It is often said that a bit of searching is required to uncover their preferred snug havens, yet they are invariably found nestled in their customary spots.

Similarly, the Campbell location of Recycle Bookstore is graced by Max, a feline who has reached the age of ten. A successor in the esteemed lineage of Campbell store cats, Max is frequently admired for his unique catio that has been meticulously constructed at the storefront. When not found basking in his leisure, Max is observed ensuring the adherence to store protocols by all.

The cats at both stores have been fondly integrated into the Recycle Bookstore experience, becoming as much a part of the store's character as the books themselves. Each cat, with its own distinct personality and habits, contributes to the warm, welcoming atmosphere that patrons have come to know and love.

Haven of Diverse Books

Within the vibrant streets, a bookstore is distinguished by its unique approach to sustainability and literature. Celebrated for fostering a culture of reusing and recycling, the bookstore has been lined with an assortment of genres, ensuring that every reader finds a gateway to new worlds. Among the vast collection, graphic novels are prominently showcased, their vivid illustrations and narratives captured in frames on countless pages.

Recycle Bookstore's Buy-Back Services

In some instances, no books may be selected, while at other times, all books may be accepted; typically, the outcome is somewhere in between. Store credit equates to a three-to-one swap for books of similar value. For cash, approximately 20-25% of the book's potential selling price in the store is offered. A higher value may be paid for books deemed more expensive or collectible. Questions regarding the book buying process and payment rates are addressed upon inquiry.
A book buy-back service is proudly offered to customers seeking great deals on used books. Old books can be brought in and traded for newer titles or for cash. A selective book buying process is available from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM. It is advised that books be brought in by 4:30 PM as the book buyer concludes transactions promptly at 5 PM. The process is straightforward: customers bring in books, and an offer of cash or store credit is made for the books that are chosen. Books not selected for purchase must be taken back by the customer.

Payment Options at Recycle Bookstore

For the convenience of the clientele, a variety of payment methods is accepted. The technology embraced allows for secure and efficient transactions, ensuring a seamless checkout experience. Customers are welcomed to utilize credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments to complete their purchases.

Reviews

4.8/5
10 reviews
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
Ted Stevenson
Ted stevenson
March 13, 2024
One of the best collections of any bookstore I have ever been in. The shelves are overflowing, both with tons of copies of popular books and unique ones you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. The store is deceptively huge as well. The used books are all reasonably priced and in good shape. The one downside is there isn’t a store catalogue to search for a particular book but digging is part of the fun and the sections are well categorized. Bonus shoutout to the two kitties that live here!
Mary Lynn Reich
Mary lynn reich
March 13, 2024
This place has a great selection of curated books together with exciting nooks and crannies which seem haphazard but are actually sensibly organized. Every inch of the store is fascinating with books categorized in a whimsical yet appealing manner. There would be some wide-eyed discovery as you go through the shelves here. Of course there is a cat with a very strong personality!The only thing that kept me from giving the store five stars is that there was a sign which stated something similar to ‘Only for employees, trespassers would be kicked out’! Now, ‘kicked’ is a little too harsh!
Adrian Cabrera
Adrian cabrera
March 13, 2024
I went in yesterday and boy did I feel amazed. There was a huge variety of books for all ages, and the workers were very nice and friendly :). I wish I spent more time there, but I also loved the smell in there. The fresh book scent always gets me. I’ll definitely be going back here!
Sean M
Sean m
March 13, 2024
The whole place is a calm vibe within the wall of great literary treasures. The children's section is just adorable and I love the homie old-school vibe. The smell of old books is soothing and comforting to me. Hard to control me from buying everything. Parking out front and great prices. They also buy books on certain days. Love love loves this store.
Robb Upthegrove
Robb upthegrove
March 13, 2024
Great bookstore. Has everything organized and books are responsibly priced. The 4 star was only because the staff was not so friendly. Checked out and the cashier was just like " set your books here" and slapped the counter. No "Hi" no "how are you?" Or "did you find what you needed?" Nothing. The cats were friendlier then the staff.
yun li
Yun li
March 13, 2024
I did have a problem with an order I placed with recycled books, but they acknowledge their mistake and were quick to remedy the situation. An easy avoidable problem that I hope R.B can remedy in the future. I like shopping with them, I just need my books to be accurately described, especially at the $80+ price point.
Jaci Caloia
Jaci caloia
March 13, 2024
I would love to rate this book store, higher, as they have a huge selection of books. This is a great bookstore if you want to browse. If you are looking for any sort of technology books , don’t waste your time coming here. They have roughly 20 books only, and they are all at the very top shelf (you would need to ask and grab a ladder) . When I asked why, they have a very limited selection in a bookstore in the heart of Silicon Valley (tech capital), the clerk replied that the books go out of date very quickly (not true). but they have an entire section on ancient history, where the books are just falling apart and taking up rows of space (weird). Customer service could be better. A woman came in to take part in the book buyback, and instead of allowing her to place the stack of books she had in hand on the counter ( which was clear), the clerk asked her to put them on the floor and wait for the manager. When asked when and how long, the clerk replied “I don’t know, just wait…” 3 stars unfortunately. My recommendation to the ownership/management: make this place undeniable as a place where developers and people who actually buy books are willing to frequent. We are out there I assure you.
tom reinhart
Tom reinhart
March 13, 2024
Quiet little place with lots of books and cats! Collection is really good. The store has a character and is a different world in its own. Absolutely loved the place!! Creaky floorboards make it even better!!!
Wai Kit Leung
Wai kit leung
March 13, 2024
This place is incredible. A proper, old school, independent bookstore. I'll be back to dig through the stacks for sure.
Bridget Counterman
Bridget counterman
March 13, 2024
I understand the cats are a huge draw for this place but having my friend step in cat diarrhea and gag in their broken bathroom trying to clean it up was a definite low of my day and weekend personally. The employees didn't seem too …

Location

1066 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126, United States

Hours

  • Monday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

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