user
The Book Loft of German Village
631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206, United States
Appearance
The Book Loft of German Village
Comments
Lo
Review №1

What a magical place for book lovers and bookstore lovers! I came, I browsed, I conquered. Next time I will explore the 20 or so rooms I didnt see this time!

Ne
Review №2

Suuuuuuuch a cool book store! There is a line out the building to get in, so be aware that with social distancing…they only let a certain amount of people in the building at one time so it’ll be a wait. Especially on the weekends.You could get lost in here there are so many rooms and books. The staff was super helpful and you do need a map to get around but it’s worth it!

Ad
Review №3

This is a very beautiful and cozy library, where you can find a long variety of books for everybody. The prices are pretty good. It was one of my favorite place in Columbus.

Mi
Review №4

If you love books, then this is your place. The aisles are narrow, but the numbered rooms help find selections. The book selection is diverse unlike some other bookstores that push certain genres or only todays bestsellers. The staff is helpful, professional, and friendly. Be sure to pick up a guide to the numbered rooms. It really helps. My wife and I found Stauffs coffee next door and that added to our experience of enjoying our new purchases.

Na
Review №5

New to Columbus Ohio and seen a lot of nice places, but this place Id highly recommend. They have the largest assortment of books Ive seen, plus comics, shirts, board games, the list goes on....If youre ever in the area definitely give it a visit at least once

Ha
Review №6

Where to start…first of all upon entering there is a beautiful courtyard packed with books to look at. When we first went inside we were blown away by how organized and clean everything was.Just to show the scale of this place, after we just covered the first floor we were ready to leave completely satisfied! We thought we had seen everything, and then we realized there was an upstairs still! It’s like three bookstores in one, hard to believe how many books they can fit in this place! They have every genre, organized very nicely, and when they advertise over 30 rooms of books they really mean it!Even though we have been here many times I don’t think we will ever see every book this place has to offer. On top of all of that, prices are really reasonable especially for the quality of the books, it’s not the usual used book store with worn books. Definitely check this place out if your in Columbus!!!!!!

Iv
Review №7

An amazing place for book lovers with an exceptional variety of printed works - books, textbooks, posters, cards, T-shirts, postcards and more. The house has a very picturesque garden with beautiful plants.

Al
Review №8

Super cool! 32 rooms of books, plan to spend a lot of time here if you love books.

Kr
Review №9

Wow what an amazing bookstore. They have books in every nook and cranny! Its a giant book maze! So many varieties and not just books. Puzzles, games, and more

Ry
Review №10

Great experience! If you love books and reading this is truly nirvana!!! Could spend all day here and still only scratch the surface of all the hidden gems they have there

Ti
Review №11

Ever want to get lost in a bookstore? Heres your chance! But first, grab a shopping basket because youre gonna need it. Of course there are many awesome deals to be found and not just on older titles. Even so, check out the clearance sections and enjoy the variety there. The rest of the store is packed with a highly curated selection that is terrific to browse. Wonderful store and energetic staff that is attentive and work well as a team.

H
Review №12

This place is fun! Hundreds of interesting books for all age groups and most topics.Two notes to make sure you are prepared though - there are a lot of steps and smaller hallways that could be hard for some to navigate and masks are required as of this moment so dont forget them. :)Enjoy your reading!

Am
Review №13

Cozy book shop with levels on levels of books. It has extreme Youve Got Mail vibes. You can spend hours among the stacks! If you know what genre youre looking for, they have a whole map of levels and genres.

Sa
Review №14

This place is beautiful outside and in! It can get a little claustrophobic at times but it was Memorial Day weekend so a bigger crowd. Just about everything I saw started off with a 5 percent discount off the list price, depending on the book and season there are also a lot of good bargains. I would visit again

ch
Review №15

The book store itself was awesome. It was a bit over crowded. They were sending in customers a few at a time due to covid. Having to wear a mask in a over crowded store and multi level floors was a bit much.

Ja
Review №16

32 rooms of books?! Well THATS right up my alley! All new books and moderately discounted. Great section of esoterica! I spent way more than I thought I would as I kept finding treasures!

e
Review №17

Novel bookstore with an amazing selection of books . The go to place for all of your book needs.

Ka
Review №18

Disney World for bibliophiles! This is a labyrinth of 32 rooms in a sprawling house in German Village. Its beautifully organized, and you can get a map, but its more fun to just meander and browse. Lots of discounted books, new and used, literary tchotchkes, and a garden to sit in after as you start reading your new book. A must stop for book lovers.

Om
Review №19

We had a wonderful time inside the gigantic Book Loft. This was a very interesting journey and the unique experience of looking at these different kinds of books was incredible. The staff was very friendly and helpful in assisting us. Definitely a must see if youre in town.

Su
Review №20

A can’t miss attraction in the German Village neighborhood of Columbus this book store has 32 rooms chock full of every type of book you could imagine! It is also chock full of the friendliest, most helpful and accommodating staff you could ever hope to meet. Even if you are not into books the beautiful courtyard and buzzing atmosphere makes it worth a stop if you are in the area! Highly recommend the book loft!

Ba
Review №21

Such a pretty place! If you’re in Columbus it’s a fun place to visit if you enjoy books and readings. The one comment I have is that because it’s divided into rooms things can get confusing in terms of navigation. Area also is not disability accessible.

Jo
Review №22

This place is dog-friendly and so beautiful my eyes watered w tears. Huge selection. Its as good as everyone says.

He
Review №23

Always delightful to visit. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Theres always something I can find in puzzles,books. I enjoy visiting the store.

Ke
Review №24

Always wonderful and we never fail to find something interesting in addition to lots of books. My daughter wanted to go here for her birthday even though it is a 4 hour drive and we were able to take beautiful photos inside and out.

Fr
Review №25

Such a wonderful place to pick up a book or to simply wander around and get lost in. 32 rooms packed with books, records, art, calendars and toys - you can find something for someone, even if you are not on a hunt to do so. The staff is wonderful and extremely helpful, and if they do not have the book you are looking for, they can order it in pretty quickly. It was busy, but it is super cool that there are so many people still interested in getting a physical book to read. Lots of benches outside to post up and read, as well as a coffee shop nearby and restaurants, as well as a beautiful park to soak in some sun while digesting a good read.

Co
Review №26

The Book Loft is simply amazing. Around every corner you find a new surprise. Books are very well priced especially the ones on clearance. The employees are kind, professional, helpful and extremely knowledgeable. I will definitely be coming back as there is no possible way to soak in all 32 rooms in one trip.

Dm
Review №27

Very stylish bookstore with a good selection of titles. Bookshelves are located in many small thematic rooms

Ad
Review №28

The Book Loft is a great place to spend some time. I enjoy discovering new reads there and discovering what the staff recommends. Its also a great place for gifts because of their unique selection.Im not sure whether Id consider their floorplan a pro or a con. Its very maze-like and you can get lost in some pretty interesting genres. Ive actually picked up a few books that I likely would have passed over if I hadnt accidentally wandered through. However, it gets a little crowded with just a few people.The only reason I have given 4 stars instead of 5 is that I have had an employee get short with me about being in the wrong place for the cash register. I understand everyone has their bad days, but it doesnt give you a positive feeling to be barked at when you are spending money in a place you really enjoy and encourage others to visit.

Ki
Review №29

This 32 interesting room book loft, located in German Village should be a must on your list to visit. Look up your favorite book themes or run into a new book nook. Add to your collection. Walk the village and check out the community.

Be
Review №30

If you love books, as I do, it is a delight to be near so many. For that experience alone, this was a good stop. But dont look to close. What I mean is, who ever is doing the purchasing for the philosophy and religion books and for the childrens classics does not seem to have a solid background in either. I found it hard to find any interesting copies of classic fables. The ones there were poorly illustrated and had no sense of age or gravitas about them. The philosophy and religion section was even worse. I could detect no clear vision for quality. I had hoped to really enjoy myself. As it was, I dont expect to ever shop there again, but I might go to enjoy the ambiance.

Ti
Review №31

Best indie (or.chain) bookstore that I have seen in a long time. Helpful staff. Definitely worth regular return visits often.

Al
Review №32

This place is so cool!! First thing is to ask for a map if you havent been here. It can be easy to get turned around with the various levels and hallways. That being said, take your time and explore! There are so many cool books to find and its so much fun to walk through!

Me
Review №33

Ive been going to the Book Loft since before I could read, and anytime we have friends in town I take them there to explore the amazing experience that it is. I preorder all the books I can from them, because I know that they will take extra care unlike other retailers.

Jo
Review №34

I love this cute book store! Theyre all well priced and the staff is very friendly and helpful. Its fun to explore the different rooms and look through books. They have an immense selection of books. You can easily spend hours if you wanted to!

Jo
Review №35

Great independent local book store, located in a converted house. Lots of nooks and crannies with different genres of books, plus the odd publication stuck here or there. Great for browsing. If you are looking for something specific ask the staff.

R
Review №36

Cant wait to go back again! Filled with books all over. A book lover place.

Lu
Review №37

I love coming here and going about the winding room and exploring every book, prices are amazing and almost 50% off from most other book stores !!!!

Da
Review №38

Very nice bookstore with a wide varieties of books that they are selling. We enjoyed wandering around different rooms in the bookstore and felt that we were surrounded by the books. However, the space was pretty small and got crowded easily, so we didn’t have much social distancing and couldn’t really stay long here.

Lo
Review №39

One of our new favorite places to visit in Columbus. So easy to get lost in this house of books, and we love it.

Zo
Review №40

A fantastic energy (though not for the claustrophobic). You could easily spend hours inside browsing through the endless rooms. The outdoor patio is so peaceful and beautiful, a perfect place to read while the sun sets.Keep an eye on your budget and buy with caution, you could easily blow through your entire bank account in here.

Ha
Review №41

A good place to wonder for a couple hours. Clean, organized, fun!

Cr
Review №42

Crazy place. Lots of books. Almost like a tourist attraction.

To
Review №43

One of the best bookstores I have ever visited !

Ja
Review №44

The Book Loft is one of my top three favorite places to visit in Columbus. Its a charming and unique bookstore. Great for all kinds of people even mildly interested in books. Cute date spot, too! I will always recommend The Book Loft to anyone who lives in, around, or just visits Columbus!

Do
Review №45

What can I say that hasnt already been said about the Book Loft? The only negative could be that you could truly lose a whole day in here. Please go here and keep this incredibly special place alive. I recommend going alone or with a companion that youre close with, as theres a lot of ground to cover but the spaces can be tight! Also the best place to really bond over your shared interests with someone.

da
Review №46

A beautiful and vast book store with lots of nooks and crannies to see. It looks small on the outside but there are so many books you loose count. Theres not a place without a book there, and its got a lovely rest area outside surrounded by flowers to take a moment to read. And a short walk to a bakery on the same street. The staff were amazing and super helpful with my questions and when I was searching for a book in particular. Above and beyond. ☆

Bo
Review №47

Nestled in the adorable German Village, this 32 room bookstore alone is worth the visit to Columbus. They offer an excellent selection of not only books, but also games, puzzles, posters, literary tees, socks, tarot, etc. Each of the 32 zones are clearly labeled, but it can feel like a bit of a labyrinth when exploring. There is also a lovely garden walkway with benches to wait &/or read if waiting for other members of your party.Masks are required. They keep a box of free masks and sanitizer at the door to provide protection from/for even the most forgetful.

Ji
Review №48

I miss this kind of bookstore! It was like a maze inside full of all sorts of books. I picked up a few by Malcolm Gladwell and couple other great books that were on sale (new books and cheaper than Amazon). Wish they had a coffee shop at the beautiful garden/courtyard! Still a sweet spot.

Ke
Review №49

If you like books, you have to check this place out! There are 32 rooms of books and laid out in a labyrinth like set up. Each room has some type of music playing in it that goes along with the theme. The selection is huge, we spent almost 2 hours in there looking at everything.

Fa
Review №50

I have been coming here for 10+ years and I adore this shop. I feel like a little kid perusing through the bargain books and the featured books and the YA novels I put on my ever-growing list of books to read. They also let you pre-order upcoming releases, which is great for presents for the book-lovers in your life

Pe
Review №51

One of the most remarkable, outstanding bookstores I’ve ever visited! It was so much fun to get lost wandering the floors of so many different sections & selections. The staff was helpful & prices were very reasonable. The only minor quirk that’s worth pointing out is that it’s a very compact area, especially when crowded. Other than that, would highly recommend. Definitely worth the two hour drive!

Ca
Review №52

So fun! I love books and this was the perfect place to shop.

Ka
Review №53

This place is worth all of the hype!! So many unusual books that I have never seen in a traditional bookstore or even in person at all. It was so fun wandering through all the rooms. And the prices are reasonable; almost all the books have some percentage discount. If you’re a book lover, I can’t recommend this place enough! I will definitely be back!

Je
Review №54

Utopia! Books youll never find anywhere else...

Ja
Review №55

I love this place and the set up outside with the benches and water fountains is relaxing and the lights is like something you see in a romantic movie. You can find any kind of book that your interested in at this place. Ive been coming here with my mom, before she passed in 2012 and my son in 2017. I still come here with my daughter and her husband. ❤

Ma
Review №56

What an amazing book store! 32 rooms packed full of books, board games, comics, calendars, note books, t-shirts, puzzles, games, and an assortment of other interesting gifts and items! Its a maze of fun and interesting finds. We really enjoyed visiting here. There is a book for everyone here, ranging from just about any topic and theme you can think of. Stop by here if you have a chance!

J
Review №57

Great selection. I do think, however, with as close as people are to each other, masks should be mandatory on busy days. It was quite scary. Its not a super size store where you can move fast and easy away from others. Just saying.

Ky
Review №58

The best bookstore I’ve ever been to in my entire life. The staff is so kind and helpful. They have books on every subject you can think of and the price points are great! It’s a must stop to any out of towner traveling to Columbus. We went out of our way to go to German Village just to visit this place! From the outside it looks like it would be very small, but the bookstore is massive inside. They have it divided by subjects so it’s easier to sort through the massive amount of books they have. It did not disappoint!

Fa
Review №59

One word: Mesmerizing! It’s a dreamland for both book lovers and haters. It has 32 rooms dedicated to different topics, very rich collection, all discounted priced. The entrance feels like walking inside a movie plot. I went there in October evening, with string lights, trees and plants, it looked totally magical. The books placed in the outside area have unbeatable price. I’ve never seen such cheap price anywhere before. If you are in Columbus, NEVER miss visiting this place. You don’t have to like books, just pay a visit. It’s more than just a book store, it’s an experience!

Ja
Review №60

If you havent been here, you should go. A wonderful iconic bookstore on the edge of downtown Columbus with tons of little nooks and crannies. A book Lovers dream.

Ru
Review №61

32 rooms of books! Quite amazing deals and prices too.

V
Review №62

Amazing! The staff is still fully masked up and super pleasant. Management must treat them well. Loved exploring through the different rooms. Its enormous but somehow still cozy :)

Su
Review №63

Always a perfect escape from the world! Due to Covid we didnt stay very long. I remember coming to the here years ago when I was in college. To now see my daughters in love with the same place is just priceless!

Br
Review №64

I am in love with this place. I got so many books and I cant believe Ive never been here before. ❤️

Fa
Review №65

Amazing bookstore. The history behind it, the amount of book, the cozy environment and the friendly staff make this a must see in German Village. This book store is HUGE and u can get easily lost in here. They offer maps at the entrance. I recommend you take them. We didn’t and it took us a bit to find our way out.

Br
Review №66

It was cool but it was hard to find where you wanted to go. This place seems to be more for people who just want to browse rather than already have a general idea of what they want. Also the prices are like new and are not used book prices. Overall it was an interesting shop and one most people should visit if they are in the Columbus area

Si
Review №67

I had so much fun navigating through the maze like setting of this book place. Lots and lots of beautiful book selection including board games, and other cool things like socks! I admit I was a bit overwhelmed by the setting and the number of books to explore. I would love to stop by again one day. If youre visiting Columbus, this place should be in your list.

So
Review №68

Crazy packed full of books and more. Dont get lost. Very organized. A bit over whelming if you dont like right spaces. Worth a visit

S
Review №69

I absolutely adore this book store. The endless rooms, narrow halls and uniquely German Village charm are magical. My only complaint is that they put stickers on a lot of the books. These aren’t normal stickers, they are the stickiest stickers known to man. After you spend 30 mins trying to peel them off the front cover of your otherwise flawless book, they inevitably leave sticky residue that won’t come off. This may seem to be a small thing to complain about, but as a book lover I can’t stand to see books ruined like that.

Di
Review №70

This is one of the most eclectic bookstores I have ever visited! Humongous selection of every genre of book along with gifts for book lovers. Definitely worth a visit!

MH
Review №71

Overwhelming but wonderful! Such a vast and interesting selection, and dont forget to check their website before going for some discounts to bring with you...

Vi
Review №72

Its a lovely place to spend time at. 32 rooms filled with great choices of books, posters, board games, gifts and other niceties. Some rooms have music playing that matches the genre of books. Interesting selection of stationery and socks too. They dont even mind you sitting a reading there. Very cool.

Ca
Review №73

Very cozy, great selection

Da
Review №74

Amazing book store but not one for people who have trouble walking. Staff very helpful

Sh
Review №75

This place was amazing! Id love to live in a house where every room was filled with books.

Em
Review №76

I came for the first time the other day, it was magical here. I will definitely be back. The rooms are sort of small but its still easy to get lost. I was able to purchase some cookbooks, and will be back for childrens books too!

Je
Review №77

Books on every subject! Great prices ! The building has so many rooms to look through. Great place

Za
Review №78

This is pretty much the best bookstore in Columbus, and one of the best Ive been to period. Sure, the organization is a bit of a nightmare, but the staff are knowledgeable and can guide you wherever. It has great outdoor space. Its selection is wonderful. And the vibe of the whole place is indescribable. A must-visit for Columbus. Especially since its location in German village is a short distance from other great finds!

C.
Review №79

You will 100% get lost in this place and it is 100% the best place to get lost in. They have some ridiculous amount of different rooms... 32 or something. If Alice followed the rabbit into a bookstore, The Book Loft would be the one he went into. They have great prices, weird bags, shirts, and funny knick knacks for gifts. They also have authors come in for readings and meet and greets. You really never know what you will find or who you are going to run into there. Chances are youll walk out saying That place is bizarre in the all of best ways.

Ky
Review №80

An amazing treasure for bibliophiles and casual lovers of books alike. 32 rooms of treasures waiting to be found. Ive never been anyplace like it. We drove up from Cincinnati just to go, and werent disappointed.

Ra
Review №81

This is a beautiful bookstore! So many rooms and the entire house has so much character. Wonderful book selection and something for everyone, plus good sales. Will definitely be back!

mu
Review №82

It had a very nice atmosphere, a lot of books of course, and all at good prices.

Sa
Review №83

Staff is very helpful when looking for something. Very fun bookstore! The store itself is huge. There are some narrow walkways and small spaces. Street parking can be difficult at busy times.

Ka
Review №84

Was a lot of fun walking around. They do have a map of the layout but it can be a bit confusing. Had a large selection of graphic novels but I was disappointed about their manga section. Its just 4 shelves on one wall, wish it was larger.

Rh
Review №85

Exquisite coffee shop! The baked items are so delicious and the courtyard outside is perfect if you like to relax in the sunshine.

N
Review №86

One of the coolest book stores in Columbus, and most definitely worth a visit. Amazing selection of books at very fair prices and a very fun layout. Its very easy to spend several hours here

Bi
Review №87

Massive selection of books here! Unfortunately, navigating is like trying to get through a cramped IKEA. However, exploration is part of the fun! Great place to find pretty much any kind of book you could want.

Ha
Review №88

Wonderful bookstore, staggeringly large with a wide selection of books across all genres. The wandering of this bookstore is a cathartic experience and it’s impossible for me to leave without picking up 5 or more new books!

Le
Review №89

I love The Book Loft so much! I love getting lost in the rows of books and losing track of time. It is easily comparable to a maze, and somehow I find my way out with arms full of books. 10,000% recommend!

Sa
Review №90

IMPORTANT! 1) This place is really not accessible for mobility or certain levels of hot fat friends. Obviously thats just due to it being in a German village house where the rooms and staircases and whatever may have never been updated. No ramps or elevators and some areas you move an inch to far and will knock some books off. Turn a corner too fast and you run into another person. 2) THIS IS NOT A USED BOOKSTORE!! I dont care what google says, all this stuff is new. Its just a big maze of new books and other items you see at bookstores. I dont mean this in a rude way, but the selection at a big barnes and noble is probably exactly the same. Obviously shop at an indie store over barnes and noble but maybe now you get the idea of what its like. Slightly lower prices than b&n probably also. Miss it if youre claustrophobic.

Fr
Review №91

An incredible amount of books on just about every subject in some twenty-five to thirty rooms throughout several floors. The only thing that would make it better would be an elevator.

An
Review №92

Great selection of newer books. Many signed first editions

st
Review №93

This is the best book store ever! I actually got lost in here twice. Lol. But they have every book. And the prices arent crazy either. Definitely check it out.

La
Review №94

Absolutely fantastic store. I have been coming here for years and have just fallen in love with it. Eclectic layout and amazing selection. This is the perfect place to get lost in while visiting German Village.

Jo
Review №95

Wow! A really amazing selection of books. There is truly something here for everyone.

Ev
Review №96

BOOKS!!! Room after room after room. It never ends. Found a copy of The Sea, The Sea buried in room 13. Not very crowded for 8:00 on a Saturday night. Super cool place if youre not claustrophobic.

Na
Review №97

I absolutely loved the bookloft. They have a huge variety of books at great prices. The staff was very friendly and I absolutely loved the layout of the store.

Ju
Review №98

I absolutely love this place. Its cozy and warm and comforting, being surrounded by a half million books. Totally worth the 2½ hour drive from Akron. Never a disappointment.

So
Review №99

Very cool bookstore. A bit overwhelming since you want to find everything. They have an outdoor portion as well. Inside, there are 32 rooms. I recommend grabbing a map they have to find the genres and types of things you are looking for.

Mi
Review №100

Definitely an experience for any book lover! Room after room filled with books is a dream, and if you are in the area, you absolutely need to visit! If you are expecting cheap used bookstore prices, this is not the place, but the books are slightly discounted from the list price. Very fun to explore and get lost in!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206, United States
  • Site:http://bookloft.com/
  • Phone:+1 614-464-1774
Categories
  • Book store
Working hours
  • Monday:10AM–11PM
  • Tuesday:10AM–11PM
  • Wednesday:10AM–11PM
  • Thursday:10AM–11PM
  • Friday:10AM–11PM
  • Saturday:10AM–11PM
  • Sunday:10AM–11PM
Service options
  • In-store pickup:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:No
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot:No
Payments
  • Checks:Yes
  • Debit cards:Yes
  • NFC mobile payments:Yes
  • Credit cards:Yes
Similar organizations