Powell’s Books on Hawthorne

Powell’s Books feels less like a bookstore and more like a sanctuary for wandering souls. Floor after floor of stories stacked like spells, the smell of old pages and quiet magic hanging in the air. It’s easy to lose track of time here the kind of place where you go in for one book and leave carrying an armful and a full heart.Every corner feels alive, worn in the best way, like the books themselves are watching and waiting to be chosen. New, used, rare all mixed together like a beautifully chaotic grimoire. If you love getting lost, following intuition instead of signs, and letting a book find you, this place is sacred ground. If you want to see the truly rare and protected books, you’ll need to head downstairs there’s an entry fee, but it makes sense for how special and preserved those pieces are. It adds to the feeling that you’re stepping into something secret and sacred.

Powell's on Hawthorne is bigger on the inside. Tons of selection, we were able to find plenty of engaging books at the just the right level for my first grade son to enjoy and be challenged without being too frustrated.

A smaller version of the original Burnside branch, but still full of great books, gifts, and souvenirs. Staff is friendly and helpful. I wish there were some chairs and maybe a carpet in some of the empty corners/spaces to accommodate those who want to hang around and read, plus it would give the place a warmer, more inviting atmosphere.

Amazing book store! A must see when in Portland and staff was incredibly friendly too!

First time at this particular location. It's well organized and much larger than it appears from out front. Great selection of gifts and a wide variety of books. Good vibes. Can't speak much on customer service as no one spoke to me, aside from the cashier, who was nice. I bought a new book that had been on my to-read list. It was about $5 more expensive than with some of the online retailers, but I prefer to support a local bookstore such as Powells. There's a coffee shop attached… mighty convenient. Will definitely be back.