In an era that has seen the rise of mega-bookstores and online book retail giants, three used bookstores in downtown Sacramento have managed to stand their ground. Beers Book Center, Time Tested Books, and The Book Collector continue to offer the same product they have for years--used books and a knowledgeable staff eager to answer any questions their customers might ask.

Beers Book Center, on S and 9th, opened in 1936 and is Sacramento's largest and oldest used bookstore. Jim Naify, owner of Beers, was forced by the city to move from his original location on 14th and J, where the Sacramento Convention Center now resides. He moved into another high traffic location on 15th and L before being pushed out by developers to make way for what is now The Park.

Bill, who preferred that his last name not be used, who has been a part of Beers since 1970. He contributes the store's success to the sheer volume of books sold. Low prices and a quality product have given Beers a solid reputation and customers tend to return regularly to purchase books. The store is constantly purchasing books as well, further strengthening their customer base.

Peter Keat, owner of Time Tested Books on 21st and L, sees the other two stores more as business resources than competition. Collaboration is one key to their success. A business card can be found on the front counter of all three stores containing each business' information.

Richard Hanson, owner of The Book Collector on 24th Street between J and K, agreed. "We don't try to coax business away from the other stores in town." He said he has received many customers who did not know about his store until referred by Time Tested Books.

Because of the nature of the used book business, inventory is random. Hanson views the other stores in town "as an extension of each other." A book can usually be found at one of the three stores and according to Beer's website, "frequent visits can result in some amazing finds."

Another important aspect to Keat’s success has been recognizing changes in business and adapting to the new methods. When the Internet threatened profits, Time Tested Books added an online component, selling through abebooks.com.

Keat was unsure of the effect the Internet would have on his business, but said the potential negative impacts "became a positive. It changed the kinds of books people sought."

The Book Collector pursued the same avenue selling online through abebooks.com. Hanson decided to keep the doors open to his "brick and mortar" building citing his love for the local book community. He views the store as a way of giving back to the community by offering advice to book seekers, friendly conversation, and holding regular readings at the store.

Beers has opted not to utilize the Internet to sell their product. Bill explained, "Books don't stay on our shelves long enough to keep an online inventory."

Even if you are not currently looking to purchase books, you might be interested in some of the events offered by our local used bookstores.

Time Tested Books hosts author signings on a regular basis and recently kicked off a new poetry series, which focuses on Sacramento area artists. Information on upcoming events can be found on their website. The Book Collector also holds regular readings on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. and entry is free.

The owners of all three stores continue to share their passions for literature today. They are always willing to discuss books with anybody who wanders into the shop. If they can't find the book you might be looking for, they will either track it down or refer you to one of the other bookstores in town.

For those of you who prefer rummaging through piles of books trying to find a gem, Sacramento area libraries host book sales, often in the "brown bag" fashion. For a set price (typically $5-$10) you can purchase as many books as you can fit in a brown shopping bag. Sales appear intermittently throughout Sacramento. Check the library's calendar for specific dates.

Used Bookstore Locations

Time Tested Books
1114 21st St.
916-447-5696
http://timetestedbooks.blogspot.com/

The Book Collector
1008 24th St.
916-442-9295
http://midtowngrid.com/directory/view/entry/8

Beers Books
915 S St.
916-442-9475
http://www.beersbooks.com/