Washington Street Books & Music — Local services in Havre de Grace

Large selection of books and comics, along with some CDs, DVDs, and various other doodads such as incense, MtG cards, and dice. They also carry some rather old and most likely rare books, to be found in a glass display case for your ogling pleasure Also: props for apparently being one of the only (non-religious) independent bookstores in Harford county. The owner is very friendly, and will often strike up a conversation with you at the register.

But for the downsides? The owner is very friendly, and will often strike up a conversation with you at the register. This can often be troublesome if you're an awkward person such as myself.

But seriously. Downsides: they seem to be in a perpetual state of unpacking, which means that sometimes you'll have to contort your way around boxes to get at the shelf you want (unfortunately for me, it's usually the horror section that's blocked off). Many of the books are sealed in plastic bags, which can be a bit annoying if, like me, you like to know what the inside of a book looks like (font size? margins? that sort of thing). And, you know. Smelling. That a big part of the whole used book store experience. It's also a shame that they only carry older comics, not new releases, as the area is terribly bereft of...

Great store. More of a culture than a store. The space is filled with what first feels an unlikely collection of books, music, memorabilia, religious statues and chacki, art, games, cards, but then you start to get it. It is a commentary on culture and all that drives us. Not just knowledge and wisdom from books, - which they clearly have and represents the bulk of the offerings. But, also the music, the movies, the gaming and comic sub/supra-cultures, the fantasy and fantastical lives we have grown to include in our own like Batman, Spiderman, Anakin and Luke Skywalker. Americana at its fines. I loved the collection of Buddhas and the costumes purchased from movies companies. There was a weeks worth of digesting to do here - wish I had found this earlier on the trip. John, the owner, is a great Bookseller and aficionado of all things present in his realm. If he's got it, you should ask him about it if you wanna know. Cause, he is THE MAN - KNOWLEDGEABLE! The first edition and signed books were enough to keep you busy for one visit. The Marian Shrine was also a nice touch. Incense and jewelry also available. If you are in Havre de Grace, you shouldn't leave without a stop...

If you are in the area this store is a must visit. I don't often rate businesses 5 stars, but this place is special. It checks all the boxes for a high quality collector's store. They have rare books, comics, tcg, memorabilia, unique and eclectic items, but thats not how I rate a 5 star business. 5 star businesses do more than just carry a high quality inventory, they provide an experience and environment beyond the typical vapid "hurry up and buy" store . When I go to this store I'm always greeted by the owner and/or his wife. They discuss the latests additions to the store and upcoming events I might be interested in. I regularly bring my family and friends and the owners treat them with a welcoming kindness that only the best stores provide. I don't want to reveal any of the exceptional items in the store, but I suggest stopping in to see...