Best of Boston

2006 Best Used Bookstore

Commonwealth Books

This independent bookstore’s inventory might not be as large as the hangar-size Barnes & Noble across the street, but it wins on originality and quirkiness. Recent arrivals include La Bible Mythes et Réalités, Bibliography of Islamic Philosophy, and A History of Haiku. Cluttered and cozy, the Comm. Ave. shop welcomes both literati and loiterers and has built up a solid following of crusty bibliophiles. Best of all is the bookshop’s aroma: the musty, pungent odor of literary history. Browse the shelves and breathe it in for yourself.

526 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-236-0182, commonwealthbooks.com