A treasure trove of stories where every book has a past and every visit feels like coming home.
Time Tested Books is a beloved independent bookstore in Sacramento's Midtown, offering a vast collection of new, used, and rare books across all genres. Known for its charming atmosphere and knowledgeable, friendly staff, the store features a dedicated children's area, a popular $1 book section, and a book trade-in system. It's a cultural hub where book lovers can browse, discover hidden gems, and connect with the community in a welcoming space that celebrates the timeless joy of reading.
1114 21st Street, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA
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Wide selection of new, used, and rare books at various price points, including a $1 section for budget-friendly finds.
Bring in your gently used books to trade for store credit, promoting sustainability and community sharing.
A cozy, kid-friendly space with books and seating where children can explore and play while parents browse.
Space available for book signings, readings, and community events to engage local authors and readers.
Friendly staff assistance to help you discover books tailored to your interests and preferences.
Comfortable seating areas where customers can relax and preview books before making a purchase.
Overall rating
frank marshall
Delightful shop with an incredible amount of books and friendly staff. Their selection of older paperbacks is awesome, more than most places I visit, and I hit a lot of bookstores in my travels. Will definitely return.
Victoria
I bought this the last time I traveled to the States in October 2024, and came across it today. The book was good - amazing, actually, I read it in one sitting, on the flight home to Canada; the store was beautiful; and the staff was kind. I can't help but be sad when I think of this trip - I didn't know things between our countries would fracture like they have. I hope justice and the will of the people prevail. And I hope to one day return to the United States of America.
Mondo Madness
A special place that as always been in the heart of midtown. A place that you may often drive past not knowing what's special books are inside. I recently had the pleasure of discovering what gems awaited me. Enjoyed going through the search for different types of books. Ended up getting a couple special finds 🤟🏻 definitely recommend checking this place out if your looking to find a good read!
Sarah
If you want to go back in time, visit this book store. One of those places that I always visit when in Sacramento. I love the store, and when I am looking to buy an older book, it is the first place I visit. The smell of the book is so intoxicating in this shop, and I love the fact they still use masks when we enter the store. They do have kids area, and I assume you can connect them for events m or book signing or reading not sure if they do that. The store have some sitting areas that you can use if you want to check the book before buying it but looking at how they guy at the store reacting to my presence last time, I am not sure I will be comfortable doing so. I always like to support local businesses and time tested books is one that I really loved for years, and I will always still go there. But I would’ve loved the person being nicer after not being in Sacramento for a long while. Nevertheless, I still like them and will support them with my business always. He might’ve got annoyed at the end of the day of me just looking around and liking everything but buying nothing just because I didn’t need much at the moment and I have already bought my book of the month from the airport. They sell, trade and exchange books a concept that is amazing and fascinating.
Liliana M
I came here for the first time today after driving by a couple times and I’m glad I did. Such a cute bookstore with tons of books ranging in price from their $1 section to more expensive items. They have a small area by the children’s section where kids can sit and play which I thought was really nice. The woman at the register (I wish I got her name!) was super sweet, she explained their trade in system, and answered any questions we had. Definitely stop by if you’re in the area!
