Porter Square Books — Local services in Cambridge

I hope I’m putting this in the correct place. As an avid writer and reader I will admit that I was disheartened to see that Porter Square Books wasn’t in its dependable location, but it was a pleasant surprise to see the new store, which seems so much spacious than the space before. The new owner took over the space and now sells everything from authentic one of a kind of clothing to items that you would find while traveling or on a treasure hunt. I felt her passion for this new business that will fit in perfectly in Cambridge. I am looking forward to going back and searching through everything. It’s set up in such an organized way but makes you feel like you’re going through an upscale but affordable flea market without the pier table owners. The new owner was such a pleasant woman, and although I was only there for about a half hour at the most she had to explain to more than a handful of people about the transition. She did this gracefully. I am sure she would drain by the end of the day with the repetitiveness. I Suggested that she get a shirt that says no more Porter square books and she took this corny joke in good humor. I will be More than happy to spend my money here for the amazing items and for the down to earth owner who seemed like she would really appreciate the flow she’s gonna...

I am a serious book lover (yes, big time nerd alert) and I include Porter Square Books among my three favorite Boston bookstores. Though I frequently stumble on new and interesting books online, it is only after time-consuming searches. By contrast, this bookstore has such an artfully culled selection, that I will come across a handful of "must-haves" in the space of half an hour. Though it is a fairly small shop, they successfully offer a great combination of classics and eclectic new reads. It is a staple one-stop source, for me, of impromptu gifts for friends, given the funky choices of not only books, but catching letterpress cards, chatchkis and gift wrap. The small café is an inviting venue for a cup of cappuccino and a breather, while deciding which items to purchase (if you end up with a stack like mine).

When buying items, take advantage of their frequent buyer program. The staff are both knowledgeable and helpful. The evening talks by authors (monthly schedule available online) are great, particularly since the audience size is limited, by virtue of the store's size. You can tell from my review that I am a fan (& would give 6 stars, if I could). This place is food...

I use to really love this bookstore and I got all my older son’s books from here. Back then they had a kids table and chairs with even some shareable toys as well as a giant teddy bear. Since Covid started however, they got rid of all the chairs, toys etc. It has become increasingly uncomfortable to browse books there (also contributing to this is the people trying to walk through to get to the restroom). I don’t understand why the table and chairs can’t return. Certainly I get the giant teddy could be a germ magnet! But to not have a place to sit and read a book to a child is a really shame. I spent yesterday trying to sit on their new (cold) floor and having my legs go numb as I tried to appease my 2 year old. PLEASE return the table and chairs! (And maybe while you are at it, can restroom users go through the other door near the science section???!!!) Why is it ok to have people push kids aside or step over them? (Perhaps because kids can’t advocate for themselves?...