University Book Store is a historic bookstore located in Seattle and recognized as one of the largest collegiate bookstores in the country. Founded by students in 1900, it offers a wide range of officially licensed Husky gear, contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and Northwest-themed gifts. The store provides affordable course materials and supplies for University of Washington students and faculty, making it an essential resource for the campus community. Customers appreciate the well-kept atmosphere and the helpful staff. Many enjoy browsing the store for book recommendations and taking advantage of bargain books, which feature popular titles at great prices. The presence of a café and unique displays, like a typewriter setup, adds to the charm of the shopping experience. However, some reviewers note that the prices can be high and there is a lack of communication regarding special orders. Despite these concerns, the store remains a favored destination for both students and the greater Seattle community, with ample parking available. Overall, University Book Store continues to support the local community while offering a diverse selection of products.
Not just a wonderfully large bookstore-although it is that-the University Bookstore is also a café and a fantastic gift shop. The two-level bookstore has a textbook section for students and general fiction and nonfiction for the public, as well as a good selection of art supplies and kids' crafts and toys downstairs. The large front room is devoted to all things fun: journals and stationery, makeup counters, bags and silver jewelry, candy and novelty items, soaps and housewares. If you're a Husky fan, they have plenty of team merchandise, too. The Seattle bookstore has frequent author reading events (shown above: a cupcake-loving dragon sketched by illustrator Jackie Morris during a Robin Hobb reading), so check their calendar and see what's going on while you're in town.
