The first in my Holiday Shopping Guide posts, covering something I’m pretty familiar with: books!

Now I really like Barnes and Noble, don’t get me wrong, but that’s not what this gift guide is about. So here are my picks:

The Open Book

Bend’s best used book store, and my favorite too. Paperbacks are half the cover price, hardbacks and large books are priced individually. They have a huge selection and cover nearly every topic—all but computer books. (They don’t deal in computer books because those are too transient.) They also sell used CDs.

You can also sell books for store credit, and use your credit when buying (up to half the price of your purchase).

The only negative I can think about is that their parking lot is small, but that’s expected considering their location.

155 NE Greenwood
Bend, OR 97701
(541) 388-3249

Pegasus Books

Yes, it’s very much a comic book shop—the comic book shop in town—and it should be the first stop for any graphic novels or comics on your list. They sell used books, toys, anime, and collectible cards, too.

It’s one of the longest-running businesses in Downtown Bend right now, and I blogged the other day that Duncan (the owner) has recently started a blog. He’s a good guy and knows his stuff, so definitely ask for recommendations.

105 NW Minnesota Ave.
Bend, OR 97701
(541) 388-4588

The Book Barn

The Book Barn is the big bookstore alternative: they have mostly new books (and some used), so you should be able to find any of the newest books out right now—and what they don’t have, they can order for you. They also have a great section devoted to local writers.

Right now on their website, they’re advertising 20% off on selected calendars. It’s a good time to do some shopping—though if you need to make a special order, I don’t know what their turnaround time is for that.

135 NW Minnesota Ave.
Bend, OR 97701
(541) 389-4589 or 877-389-4589