Chaucer's Books

jon hall

2 years ago

Spectacular, dense, and most importantly well-curated selection of books covering most topics. I could get lost in this place for days. .. UPDATE: I’ve been coming here for years now, and my appreciation has only increased. I continue to have positive interactions with the staff, all of whom are knowledgeable and passionate about books. A few times I’ve sought help and the person is new, but it’s always been a great experience as they’re transparent about what they know (and don’t). We often end up discovering something new together. You know a bookstore is good when they carry multiple works by great authors, especially those that perhaps aren’t well known. More times than not I find the boo. I’m looking for. And when I don’t they’re eager to order for me. Everywhere I travel I’ll stop on locally owned bookstores, as I’ve found they are one of the most accurate measures of their cities. Chaucer’s restore my faith in Santa Barbara and its people.

Tim Smith

5 months ago

I don't live in Santa Barbara, but every time I pass through that wonderful location I spend several hours in Chaucer's. And buy three of four books, of course. Clearly one of best bookstores on the West Coast. Well, it's really THE best, even taking into account Portland and Los Angeles.

Tanya Juice

4 months ago

I love visiting Chaucer’s! I don’t do it enough. I’m one of those people that love older book stores with unique finds. I went to a book signing and really enjoyed the experience! I love how this book store is for the people.

P. Anthony: Santa Barbara, Ca

7 months ago

One of the last, if not the last, full service book stores on the South Coast. Offering current and not so current publications in every possible genre. If Chausers doesn't have it in stock, just ask, and they'll gladly order it for you at fair market price. Not sure how long they've been in their current location ( Loreto Plaza), but it seems like forever ( maybe 40 years). As a small business owner in Santa Barbara, Chausers was a customer of mine back in the 90s. At the time the business was owned and (well) managed by a true book-lover enthusiast ..im always glad, and impressed, to see their business continue operations, considering the high retail leases in the area. Most businesses have a difficult time making enough profit to remain open, even for a few years. Way to Go Chausers! Chausers is like having 10 Bookmobiles in one location. Here's to another successful, book-filled year in Santa Barbara.

JR Hansen

3 months ago

Plan to spend a long time here. This bookstore has a LOT to see. Physically smaller than your typical Barnes and Noble, but a heckufa lot more fun. Bigger variety, helpers who actually help, not same-o that you get at any / every B&N. I definitely recommend Chaucers for the reader!

Katrina Storton

6 months ago

An absolute incredible bookstore with a great staff and wide selection of books. The layout is a little tight I will admit but with so many shelves squeezed in we get more books to browse! I love the community connection Chaucer's has as well and the staff is always helpful and kind.

Robledo Herrera

6 months ago

My daughter and I happened to bump into this bookstore and I’m so glad we did! It’s such a cozy, welcoming place. The selection was great, and we loved browsing together. The atmosphere made us want to stay longer. We’ll definitely be back!

Forrest Brewer

3 months ago

Chaucer's Books is a old time owner curated bookstore, possibly the last of its type in the city. While it isn't Amazon, it has a selection of books that is constantly updated, and real people who know what's in them and where to start. Large subset of children's books is separate, and nice section on travel, science, literature... If your looking to find a good book, this is a nice place to start!

LeAnn Srite

month ago

Excellent bookstore with a wide range of literature. My online order was prepared promptly and I was notified which books were currently available and how long it would take for others to arrive. Excellent, friendly customer service

Elyse Hale

2 months ago

Best local bookstore! They have so much on the shelves, and if they don’t have what you are looking for, they will order it for you and it arrives in just a couple days, and they call you to let you know. The staff is very nice and knowledgeable. They also host authors for book signings, which is so cool. Such a great shop!